Chinese proverb
The Lerman Institute believes strongly in this proverb, which is why we incorporate visualization and art in science teaching. Students remember and understand abstract scientific concepts best by creating their own artistic projects. Through this process, students actively participate in the learning process instead of only being passive observers. The students can produce visualization projects using the media of their choice, from computer animation (High Tech) to dance and drama (No Tech). These projects can be used as an alternative assessment method. This method has been proven successful with underprivileged students around the globe.
Artwork showing a world ruined by pollution
painted by a student in Professor Zafra Lerman's class at the Science Institute, Columbia College
The 21st century is indeed the century of science and technology. If we do not make science and technology accessible to all, we will form a two-class society, divided not by royalty or economic status but by knowledge of science and technology. It is my tenet in life that science education is a human right that belongs to all. Therefore, we must employ every method possible to make science accessible to all in the 21st century.
A two class society
drawn by a student in Professor Zafra Lerman's class at the Science Institute, Columbia College
