Undergraduate Engineering Education Enhancement via Parallel Participation in the Visual & Performing Arts

University Of South Florida, Tampa FL

Investigators

Abstract

This project develop undergraduate engineering pathways which include the visual and performing arts. For students with definite talents in both engineering and the visual & performing arts (V&PAs), an environment will be created that is supportive of the development of both areas will definitely enhance the educational process and student academic performance of the engineering component. Furthermore, engineering students will benefit from participation in the V&PAs terms of two areas: 1) development of creativity-related skills (beyond that typically achieved by traditional engineering students); and 2) stress management. Perception of engineering as a possible academic major will be enhanced by the offering of such a dual program, leading to additional engineering student recruitment. A web site and flyer will be created that contains: a)"Why students should care about the V&PAs; b) opportunities for engineering students in the V&PAs; and 3) examples of student it success stories". The impact of these on middle and high school students and teachers will be explored. The potential impact of such a program on middle and high school students and teachers attitudes towards engineering will be investigated. Undergraduate Certificates will be created in the following V&PA areas: dance, theater, music, and art. .