Creative Engagement on Ecological Issues: Studio Work Experience in a Context of Interdisciplinary Learning

Abstract

The complexity of contemporary environmental issues demands a more holistic and interdisciplinary response. However, despite broad recognition of the educational benefits of interdisciplinary learning contexts, a review of the relevant literature reveals that research interest in the potential of such approaches remains fairly limited and exerts little influence on established pedagogical practices. The paper contributes to the research on interdisciplinary approaches by augmenting empirical understanding of how art can help to promote creative engagement with ecological issues. After describing the process and outcomes of a collaborative ecological art project involving engineering students, the paper reviews some interesting findings from the post-project survey asking about the students’ studio work experience. The paper concludes with a discussion of art’s potential role in promoting creative engagement in interdisciplinary learning contexts.