INTEGRATION OF ARTS IN SCIENCE EDUCATION

Abstract

Often science is seen as concerning mainly 'critical' rather than 'creative' thinking.
This is largely because critical thinking is perceived as a set of vertically operated
cognitive skills used for decision-making in complex but logical situations, or for
solving 'ill-structured' problems. The incorporation of the arts into teaching and
learning is called arts integration (AI). The arts include both visual arts (paintings,
sculptures) and performing arts (music, dance, drama). To some scholars, science
and art can be seen as opposites, but these two fields can also share common
attributes which can profit research and student accordingly. The paper is targeted at
three objectives; foster creative Problem-Solving Skills, enhance understanding of
scientific concepts and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for both Art and Science, to
achieving this, the paper articulated the roles, the place and fabrics of art in science
education which will therefore enable students and researchers alike appreciate the
place of art in science education, research and development of curriculum. This
article is recommended for further empirical study in the academic scene from
secondary to tertiary level, this will help build the minds of aspiring scholars.