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Tim White
and
Jiang Shuo
Symmetry is everywhere. In the grand scheme of things it is the blueprint by which the universe operates. We see symmetry in nature, art, architecture, science and engineering. This course explores the Beauty, Form and Function of Symmetry in common objects, then progresses to investigate tiling and tessellation, with the extension of these concepts to the atomic structure of crystals.
Read more
Symmetry is everywhere. In the grand scheme of things it is the blueprint by which the universe operates. We see symmetry in nature, art, architecture, science and engineering. This course explores the Beauty, Form and Function of Symmetry in common objects, then progresses to investigate tiling and tessellation, with the extension of these concepts to the atomic structure of crystals.
Read more
Symmetry is everywhere. In the grand scheme of things it is the blueprint by which the universe operates. We see symmetry in nature, art, architecture, science and engineering. This course explores the Beauty, Form and Function of Symmetry in common objects, then progresses to investigate tiling and tessellation, with the extension of these concepts to the atomic structure of crystals.
To amplify these ideas, you will undertake field-exercises and be introduced to specialists – botanists, artists, geomancers, historians, scientists and engineers - that work with symmetry, and who will provide their personal insights into its ‘magic’ and impact on their disciplines.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/z7r7sl/beauty
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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.
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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.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause 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
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Reviews summary
Interdisciplinary symmetry exploration
According to learners, this course offers a largely positive and captivating journey into symmetry, masterfully blending its presence in art, nature, and various scientific disciplines. Many found the instructor, Professor Phang, exceptionally engaging and skilled at making complex concepts accessible, leading to a newfound appreciation for patterns in the world. Unique elements like field exercises and specialist interviews are highlighted as enriching additions. However, students note a significant shift in difficulty, with later modules delving into rigorous mathematical and crystallographic concepts, which may not align with expectations for those seeking a purely aesthetic or general interest exploration. This can lead to a divided experience for learners with different backgrounds.
Features like field exercises and specialist interviews enrich learning.
"The field exercises were a brilliant touch, though I wish there were more hands-on assignments."
"The interview segments with specialists were a unique and enriching addition. It truly showed the pervasive nature of symmetry."
"The field exercises were fun, but not graded, so less incentive to do them."
Professor Phang makes complex ideas accessible and inspires.
"Professor Phang does an excellent job of making complex ideas accessible."
"Prof. Phang's enthusiasm is infectious. ... connected abstract mathematical concepts to real-world examples."
"Professor Phang is a phenomenal educator, clear, concise, and passionate."
Blends art, nature, and science for a holistic view of symmetry.
"This course masterfully blends art, nature, and science. ... opened my eyes to symmetry everywhere."
"It's rare to find a subject taught with such interdisciplinary flair. ... showed the pervasive nature of symmetry across different fields."
"I appreciated the interdisciplinary approach... This course redefined how I see the world."
Some older reviews mentioned dated video quality or audio issues.
"The production quality felt a bit dated in parts, especially some of the older video lectures."
"Some of the videos felt a bit low resolution or had audio issues occasionally."
"Content is good but the structure needs work. ... the presentation could be refined."
Starts accessible but becomes mathematically rigorous later.
"Some of the later modules, especially on Bravais Lattices, felt a bit dense and would benefit from more practical examples."
"I signed up hoping for more art and design application, and less pure science. The sudden shift was jarring."
"The early parts are fantastic for beginners, but the later parts assume a bit more mathematical comfort."
"It felt like two different courses combined, one for general interest, another for a more scientific audience."
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
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of basic geometric concepts for a stronger foundation in symmetry
Browse courses on
Geometry
Show steps
-
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'
Show steps
Expand your understanding of symmetry with a comprehensive theoretical perspective
View
Symmetry (Princeton Science Library)
on Amazon
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Identify examples of symmetry in everyday objects to develop observation skills
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
-
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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Symmetry resource collection
Show steps
Gather external resources on symmetry to expand your understanding of the topic
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Complete tutorials on symmetry transformations to solidify understanding of these concepts
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Create your own tessellated pattern to demonstrate your grasp of symmetry principles
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Attend a workshop to learn about practical applications of symmetry in design
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Expand your professional network and learn about career opportunities in symmetry-related fields
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
-
Attend industry events or conferences focused on symmetry
-
Join professional organizations related to symmetry
-
Reach out to professionals in symmetry-related fields on LinkedIn
Review high school geometry
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of basic geometric concepts for a stronger foundation in symmetry
Browse courses on
Geometry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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'
Show steps
Expand your understanding of symmetry with a comprehensive theoretical perspective
View
Symmetry (Princeton Science Library)
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Identify examples of symmetry in everyday objects to develop observation skills
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Symmetry resource collection
Show steps
Gather external resources on symmetry to expand your understanding of the topic
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Complete tutorials on symmetry transformations to solidify understanding of these concepts
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Create your own tessellated pattern to demonstrate your grasp of symmetry principles
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Attend a workshop to learn about practical applications of symmetry in design
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Expand your professional network and learn about career opportunities in symmetry-related fields
Browse courses on
Symmetry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
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.
Landscape Architect
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.
Urban Planner
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.
Interior designer
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.
Product Designer
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.
Graphic 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.
Fashion Designer
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.
Jeweler
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.
Ceramicist
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.
Sculptor
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.
Painter
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.
Photographer
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.
Writer
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.
Musician
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.
Dancer
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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/z7r7sl/beauty
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Beauty, Form & Function: An Exploration of Symmetry.
Good starting point to understand symmetry across disciplines. It is intended as a textbook at the college sophomore level.
Good reference for understanding the applications of symmetry to mechanical engineering.
Provides an excellent review of the mathematics behind symmetry.
Save
Good starting point for understanding the concept of symmetry breaking and its applications in a broad variety of disciplines.
Very short (less than 100 pages) accessible overview of symmetry.
This accessible book uses clear and concise language to explain the basic mathematical concepts behind symmetry.
Provides an excellent survey of how symmetry has impacted both science and the humanities.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/z7r7sl/beauty
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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Instructors
Tim White
Jiang Shuo
Language
English
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