Abstract:

In our modern society, art and science are often characterized as unrelated, and sometimes opposing human endeavors. Recently, a growing number of scientists and artists are starting to look for opportunities for collaboration across their disciplines in research and creative activities. The disconnect between science and art is finally being bridged, as the value of artistic creativity and imagination for careers in Science and Engineering is becoming recognized. The need for balanced STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) curriculum in an undergraduate and professional education is now discussed among the educators. Some say that STEAM is the new STEM. Formal and informal STEAM education can take many forms: university-level required and elective courses, public lectures, workshops and masterclasses, as well as ArtSci clubs, salons and exhibitions.

This paper provides an insight into our own attempt to create a science curriculum focused on light, colour and vision. Lectures, supplemented by science and art-related demonstrations, are being prepared, with a final goal of developing an elective course that is accessible to the art, science and engineering students. This paper proposes a syllabus for this course. This concept is not entirely new. However, our course, in addition to foundational topics, will also include components that examine how various artistic media incorporate laws of physics and mathematics to create compelling artworks. For example, one of the more unique chapters will explore how the understanding of optical properties (ie: reflection, refraction, diffraction and polarization) is essential for creating realistic paintings. Selected works of old masters will be used to demonstrate the laws of physics.

Incorporating arts into science and engineering education is a new approach to teaching science that has the potential to captivate students and unleash their creativity. Creating meaningful curriculum for STEAM education builds bridges between science educators and practicing artists.

Keywords:

Curriculum, STEM, light, colour, vision.