SCI2400 · Creative methods at the intersections of science and art

Overview

This interdisciplinary unit, based at Monash Prato Centre in Italy, is an immersive journey into how art and science provide complementary modes of creative thinking that have contributed to the development of science, culture and society. You will learn about the historical interactions between art, design, science, technology in a transdisciplinary way. In this unit, you will harness complementary scientific and creative problem solving and communication tools that can be applied in your future career to enhance your capacity as an innovator. You will undergo a shift in perspective, and deepen your understanding of how science intersects with art and design to respond to socio-economic and political issues of our age by working on a self-selected project in a team. We will start by exploring the nexus of scientific and creative thinking through the work and discoveries of Galileo Galilei in the early 17th century, examining how these discoveries were influenced by the cultural environment nurtured by the Medici and Lorraine families, the founders and rulers of Tuscany, during the Renaissance. We will then explore how the development of scientific instrumentation through the 18th and 19th century in astronomy, chemistry and medicine impacted cultural developments, and the role of art and design therein. You will explore multiple science and art museums and engage with how science can be communicated to the public to bring key scientific endeavours to life. This unit will be of interest to students from science and beyond (i.e., art, design and architecture, business, engineering, etc.). The activities will be delivered through visits to museums, seminar discussions and studio activities, and self-chosen research-driven activities. The unit aims to develop your ability to examine problems and use your creativity to come up with imaginative, innovative and speculative solutions using complementary methods, tools and thinking processes from arts and science.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the role that key scientific discoveries have played in changing society, considering the history and philosophy of science and its intersection with art and design;
2. Examine various ways in which scientific and creative design thinking tools and methods are complementary, promote transdisciplinary collaboration, and harness innovation;
3. Investigate interrelatedness of science, art and society through exploring creative science communication and effective means of engaging the public with global issues;
4. Frame and conduct a project as part of an interdisciplinary team, within an international cultural context;
5. Demonstrate creative oral and written skills and present evidence-based arguments using both artistic and scientific thinking.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload equals 48 hours per week over a 3 week period, comprising 18 hours workshops and discussions, 48 hours organised field trips and excursions and 78 hours of independent study.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.