Beauty, Form & Function: An Exploration of Symmetry from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Concepts in Symmetry I

These lectures will refresh your intuitive appreciation of symmetry in common objects and introduce the mathematical and symbolic descriptors of point symmetry.

Concepts in Symmetry II

Some of the most beautiful examples of symmetry appear in flowers. These lectures use flowers as exemplars of the application of point symmetry to concisely describe the presence of mirror lines and rotation points.

Concepts in Symmetry III

The key concepts in plane symmetry are illustrated by examining tessellations in architecture. The important concept of the asymmetric unit is also introduced. The practical importance of symmetry is illustrated through a discussion of chirality and its impact on drug design and efficacy.

Concepts in Symmetry IV

The formal mathematical nomenclature of point symmetry is introduced, including the relationship between symmetrically linked objects.

Plane and Space Symmetry I

Plane Groups that describe symmetry operations in 2 dimensions are illustrated using the art of Escher. The 2D Bravais Lattices that capture all tiling permutations are covered together with the difference between ‘primitive’ and ‘centred’ unit cells.

Plane and Space Symmetry II

The 17 Plane Groups are formally introduced and their representation in the International Tables of Crystallography explained. By mastering the plane group diagrams and figures, all common tessellations can be deconstructed into their symmetric components.

Plane and Space Symmetry III

These lectures examine the role of symmetry in Islamic architecture and history in the context of regular and irregular networks. The transition to 3D or Space Symmetry is via the five Platonic Solids. The 2D symmetry operators (rotation, reflection, glide) are expanded to include screw axes and axial glide in 3D symmetry.

Plane and Space Symmetry IV

The 3D Bravais Lattices are the basis for describing the atomic relationships found in many crystalline materials. The way in which Space Symmetry determines not only the atomic locations but also the chemical composition of crystals is explained.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches learners about the foundational importance of symmetry in industries such as art and architecture

Teaches learners about the role of symmetry in the atomic structure of crystals

Emphasizes the application of symmetry in various disciplines

Course format could potentially be enhanced to include interactive exercises, hands-on labs, or simulations to improve comprehension

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Beauty, Form & Function: An Exploration of Symmetry with these activities:

Review high school geometry

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Strengthen your understanding of basic geometric concepts for a stronger foundation in symmetry

Browse courses on Geometry

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Review notes or textbooks from a high school geometry course
Focus on topics related to shapes, transformations, and symmetry
Practice solving geometry problems to improve your problem-solving skills

Read 'Symmetry: A Unifying Concept'

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Expand your understanding of symmetry with a comprehensive theoretical perspective

View Symmetry (Princeton Science Library) on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts
Complete the exercises and problems at the end of each chapter

Identify symmetry in real-world objects

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Identify examples of symmetry in everyday objects to develop observation skills

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Look for objects around you that exhibit symmetry
Determine the type of symmetry present (e.g., bilateral, rotational)
Create a collection of images or sketches of objects with different types of symmetry

Five other activities

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Symmetry resource collection

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Gather external resources on symmetry to expand your understanding of the topic

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Find articles and videos on symmetry in nature, art, and architecture
Compile a list of experts in the field of symmetry and their contact information
Identify relevant books, conferences, and workshops on symmetry
Create a digital or physical folder to store your collection

Practice symmetry transformations

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Complete tutorials on symmetry transformations to solidify understanding of these concepts

Browse courses on Symmetry

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Search for online tutorials on symmetry transformations
Follow the steps outlined in the tutorials to practice applying symmetry transformations
Work through practice problems to test your understanding

Design a tessellated pattern

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Create your own tessellated pattern to demonstrate your grasp of symmetry principles

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Choose a shape or motif for your tessellation
Experiment with different symmetry transformations to create a repeating pattern
Transfer your design onto a physical medium (e.g., paper, fabric)

Attend a workshop on symmetry in design

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Attend a workshop to learn about practical applications of symmetry in design

Browse courses on Symmetry

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Research and identify workshops on symmetry in design
Register for and attend the chosen workshop
Actively participate in the workshop activities

Connect with professionals in symmetry-related fields

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Expand your professional network and learn about career opportunities in symmetry-related fields

Browse courses on Symmetry

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Attend industry events or conferences focused on symmetry
Join professional organizations related to symmetry
Reach out to professionals in symmetry-related fields on LinkedIn

Career center

Learners who complete Beauty, Form & Function: An Exploration of Symmetry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Architect

Architects design and oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They use their knowledge of engineering, mathematics, and aesthetics to create functional and visually appealing spaces. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an architect. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of building materials and construction techniques, and how to use them to create sustainable and efficient structures.

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Landscape Architect

Landscape architects design and create outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and campuses. They use their knowledge of plants, soil, and water to create functional and visually appealing landscapes. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a landscape architect. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of plants and how to use them to create sustainable and resilient landscapes.

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Interior designer

Interior designers create the interior spaces of buildings, including homes, offices, and public spaces. They use their knowledge of color, texture, and furniture to create functional and aesthetically pleasing environments. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an interior designer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of interior design styles, and how to use them to create spaces that meet the needs of your clients.

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Urban Planner

Urban planners develop plans for the development and use of land in urban areas. They use their knowledge of architecture, engineering, and economics to create plans that meet the needs of the community. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an urban planner. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of land use planning tools and how to use them to create sustainable and equitable communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Product Designer

Product designers create and develop new products. They use their knowledge of engineering, design, and marketing to create products that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and commercially viable. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a product designer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of product design materials and manufacturing techniques, and how to use them to create products that meet the needs of your customers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Graphic designer

Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for applications such as brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a graphic designer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of graphic design software and techniques, and how to use them to create effective and visually appealing designs.

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Fashion Designer

Fashion designers create clothing and accessories. They use their knowledge of fabrics, textiles, and design to create garments that are both stylish and functional. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a fashion designer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of fabrics and textiles, and how to use them to create garments that are both beautiful and durable.

See salaries and explore the career path for Fashion Designer

Jeweler

Jewelers create and repair jewelry. They use their knowledge of metals, gemstones, and design to create beautiful and valuable pieces. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a jeweler. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of metals and gemstones, and how to use them to create jewelry that is both beautiful and durable.

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Ceramicist

Ceramicists create functional and decorative objects from clay. They use their knowledge of clay, glazes, and firing techniques to create pieces that are both beautiful and durable. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a ceramicist. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of clay and glazes, and how to use them to create ceramics that are both beautiful and durable.

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Sculptor

Sculptors create three-dimensional works of art from a variety of materials, including clay, metal, wood, and stone. They use their knowledge of anatomy, perspective, and design to create sculptures that are both beautiful and meaningful. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a sculptor. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of sculpting materials and techniques, and how to use them to create sculptures that are both beautiful and durable.

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Painter

Painters create two-dimensional works of art using paint, canvas, and other materials. They use their knowledge of color, composition, and perspective to create paintings that are both beautiful and meaningful. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a painter. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious designs. You will also learn about the different types of paints and brushes, and how to use them to create paintings that are both beautiful and durable.

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Photographer

Photographers capture images of people, places, and things using a camera. They use their knowledge of composition, lighting, and exposure to create photographs that are both beautiful and informative. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a photographer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which are essential for creating balanced and harmonious compositions. You will also learn about the different types of cameras and lenses, and how to use them to capture stunning images.

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Writer

Writers create written works, such as novels, short stories, poems, and plays. They use their knowledge of language, grammar, and storytelling to create works that are both entertaining and informative. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a writer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which can be used to create balanced and harmonious plots and characters.

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Musician

Musicians create and perform music using instruments or their voices. They use their knowledge of rhythm, melody, and harmony to create music that is both beautiful and meaningful. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a musician. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which can be used to create balanced and harmonious melodies and rhythms.

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Dancer

Dancers create and perform dance movements using their bodies. They use their knowledge of rhythm, coordination, and expression to create dances that are both beautiful and meaningful. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a dancer. You will learn about the principles of symmetry, which can be used to create balanced and harmonious dance movements.

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