Integrating the Humanities and Arts with Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine: A Culturally Relevant Perspective and Practice at Florida A&M University

The social and political sciences, the arts and humanities are inclusive disciplines for African-American, Hispanic and other students from underrepresented groups because they offer culturally relevant advocacy, approaches and solutions for the issues that matter to them. They can, including STEM, health professions and the medical sciences, connect these disciplines to their communities' challenges and opportunities. Through extra- and co-curricular activities Florida A&M University (FAMU), a Historically Black College and University, speaks the language of these populations to increase geoscience literacy and participation. For example, students enrolled in EVR1001 Fundamental of Environmental Science, a general education course for non-science majors, are required at the end of class to demonstrate what they have learned in a creative group presentation. This is facilitated by an artist visiting the class to engage the students in creative expression and methods. Students present a variety of formats including video, rap, painting, gaming and skits. Another outlet for students is the 'Sustainable U Poster Competition' hosted by faculty from the School of Architecture + Engineering Technology and the School of the Environment. There is a campus wide call for entries from individuals and groups who must express the theme of the competition adhering to specific rules and criteria. The 2013 competition 'Empowering Environmental Justice Communities Locally and Globally' awarded 1^st Place to 'Green Thumbs Sow Knowledge' an entry from a Fine Arts major who was enrolled in EVR1001. The 2015 Sustainable U theme 'ART of Sustainability' was co-hosted by the FAMU Sustainability Institute. Another example is the 2019 #Write On FAMU Scholarship Challenge! 'Write On Collins & Falana.' FAMU students submitted integrated essays, on their thoughts and inspirations based on original research, about renowned: entomologist Collins and artist Falana. This presentation will share the methods, practices and examples of student entries that required a transdisciplinary approach inclusive of the social sciences, arts, humanities, STEM and medical/health science and the implications for increasing literacy, broadening participation, community-engagement and workforce development in the geosciences.