ERIC Number: EJ1099034
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007
Pages: 23
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1938-9809
EISSN: N/A
E=mc[superscript 2] and Other Artistic Equations: Encouraging the Complementary Skills of Einstein and of Picasso through Redefinition
Dezember, Mary
Forum on Public Policy Online, v2007 n3 Sum 2007
C.P. Snow calls for communication between the "two cultures" of arts and humanities and science and mathematics so that, globally, humanity can survive and prosper. This paper suggests that when individuals begin to identify with both "cultures," they will be less tolerant of such polarity within education and society and will begin to foster and even expect a mending of this fractured societal persona. My thesis comes from the results of a questionnaire answered by 55 of my students--members of the "science and mathematics culture," for they attend a science, engineering, and technology research institution. The results of this survey strongly suggest that teaching non-dualism, non-oppositional or complementary dualism--meaning differences that work together for a whole, such as illustrated by the yin yang symbol--is validating for many students. Survey results also show that most students feel that the scientific and artistic aspects within their personalities are balanced or close to balanced; many answers suggest that students are seeking a resolution of this breach in their education and in society. Some surprising results emerged from the survey, such as revealing that an almost equal number of students considered themselves "predominantly artistic" as do those who consider themselves "predominantly scientific." Results also articulate further redefinition is needed in each of the "two cultures" for their equal validity in society. Specifically, most likely from educational and societal training that begins when young, students do not recognize the transformative value of the socio-political impact of art and do not understand that artists are often technicians of social change.
Descriptors: Interdisciplinary Approach, Educational Methods, Surveys, Questionnaires, Student Surveys, STEM Education, Art Activities, Sciences, Artists, College Students, Cultural Influences
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A