Polymathic pedagogies

Abstract

The MA Art and Science, Central Saint Martins (University of the Arts London), was established in 2011 for students wishing to undertake a master’s degree at the intersection of these fields, within a fine art programme. Under a course philosophy of openness to multi- and interdisciplinary research, curriculum evolution has been driven by the interdisciplinary faculty, students and external partners. Great student diversity in disciplines, cultures and ages, plus challenges of working at the intersection of huge disciplines, have necessitated the development of particular educational approaches, ‘polymathic pedagogies’, untypical of fine art courses. Chief among these are strategies for developing individualised hybrid research and creative methods challenging disciplinary norms; a strong focus on enquiry and experimentation; and opportunities to collaborate with external partners, including cultural organisations, community groups, research laboratories and scientific institutions. Although some common ‘content’ is presented via lectures, seminars and visits, the course is non-dogmatic, sceptical of canons and facilitates individualised and collective learning. Thinking through making, learning through ‘play’ and methods employing chance maximise criticality and creativity and build confidence. The success of the course, subsequently joined by others worldwide, demonstrates that novel ‘polymathic pedagogies’ can be successfully developed and applied within interdisciplinary art and science education at a master’s level. Keywords Art and Science; Art and Design; Postgraduate Education; Higher Education; Interdisciplinary Education; Curriculum Design; Emergent Curriculum; Polymathic Pedagogy