An investigation into the process of transference, through the integration of art with science and math curricula, in a California community college: A case study

Abstract

The transference of learning from one discipline to another creates new knowledge between subjects. Students can connect and apply what they learn in one subject to previously existing knowledge. Art expression is an integral part of human nature and has been a means of communication throughout history. Through the integration of art with science and math, this case study analyzes the process of transference in 2 California community college classes. In a science class, a lesson was provided to engage the interaction between ceramics, physics, and chemistry. Additionally, an art class was introduced to the Fibonacci equation to demonstrate the relationship between art and math. Both the science and art classes completed demographic questionnaires and were observed while completing their projects. Upon completion of their projects, the participants received a questionnaire regarding their observations and conclusions regarding interdisciplinary education and the process of transference. Volunteer focus groups were also interviewed in both classes. Results of this case study indicate that further study integrating art with additional disciplines would be advisable to determine the effect of the process of transference on increased learning. It appears that this interdisciplinary approach with art is beneficial to motivation, collaboration, understanding, and application of knowledge in the educational environment. Participants in this case study overwhelmingly concurred that these lessons had a positive effect on collaboration, motivation, attitude, and productivity of both the students and the instructors. Furthermore, these students responded that through this interdisciplinary integration, they could apply new knowledge to previously existing knowledge more effectively. Additionally, they could foresee applying the process of transference to other areas of their lives and education.