Mixing fluid mechanics with circus: how the performing arts can enhance learning in an undergraduate engineering course

Abstract

Our multifaceted society calls for engineers that are not only experts in their domain, but possess the flexibility to understand adjacent disciplines. The inclusion of the performing arts in engineering curricula has shown potential for cultivating creativity and equipping STEM students with problem-solving abilities. However, the literature offers limited examples of such integration in engineering courses. We present a unique learning experience involving engineering students from the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) and circus students from Bachelor’s programme in Circus at Stockholm School of the Arts (SKH). Grounded in the concepts of docendo discimus, presentational dimension of circus and reflective thinking, our study aimed to: (1) explore engineering students’ acceptance of an unconventional collaboration with circus peers; and (2) assess the pedagogical value of this collaboration for the engineering students. We highlight challenges and potentialities of this collaboration, to inform educators interested in creative teaching approaches.