SCI 201 - Material Science for Makers

2 credit(s)
Material Science for Makers, SCI 201, is part of a two-course interdisciplinary experience (SCI 201 and ARTST 201 ) that introduces students to relationships between art, craft, design, and science as applied to processes and materials used for the production of functional objects such as tools, tableware, and clothing. In SCI 201, students will use the scientific method as they conduct experiments and explore how science and culture inform and influence the choices and treatment of physical materials used to make the things we need. We will evaluate these choices for their utility and investigate the materials and processes of production using the scientific frameworks of physics and chemistry. We will also assess methods of production while considering issues of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Through experiment, lecture, reading, and written reflection, students will explore the science behind the processes of making materials and objects such as ceramic bowls, steel knives, and dyed textiles. The course will be taught by faculty from the School of Natural Sciences.
Core Requirement(s): Counts toward core requirement: Scientific Perspectives of the Natural World.
Corequisite(s): ARTST 201