Teaching Science and Social Science to Artists

Colloquium
Katherine Greenland,  Lauren Basson,  Jack DeLap,  Rebeca Rivera  

The Politics of Teaching Social Science to Artists. Lauren Basson: What are effective pedagogical strategies for introducing artists to the socio-political contexts and perspectives that shape their worlds? As a political scientist, I create multilayered assignments and innovative classroom activities to engage students in ways that expand their intellectual horizons and enrich their artistic practices. Developing an Interdisciplinary Pedagogy: Exploring the Intersection of Science and Art in the College Classroom. Jack DeLap: Trained as both a scientist and a fine artist, I blend pedagogical methods, creating a learning environment that is relevant and rigorous while accomplishing my disciplinary teaching goals. Scaffolding science education through arts-based practices allows me to “translate” natural science models, theories, and epistemologies more effectively. Art and Sustainability: Theory and Methods Reflected in Artistic Practice Rebeca Rivera: As a transdisciplinary scholar I weave together science, social science, and the humanities to offer students holistic understanding of human-environment relationships. I work with students to understand research methodologies, theory, and critical perspectives and offer space to apply and transform them through their art projects and critical reflections. Identity and Community: Weaving the Tapestry of Art and Sociology Katherine Greenland Trelstad What is the relationship of identity and community in the life of an artist? How can creative practice inspire and engage critical thought around themes of race, class, gender, ability and religion? As a performance artist and social justice worker, I explore the pedagogical intersectionality of sociology and the arts to uncover points of dissonance, parallax and possibility.