Renaissance Learning

Many have used the term “Renaissance learning” to describe the intent of a liberal arts education, where students are taught to be well-rounded individuals. A Renaissance person is said to be excited about learning in seemingly disparate disciplines and talented in both the arts and sciences. Renaissance learning calls for students to become multi-disciplinary individuals. Many view Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) as the epitome of a Renaissance individual. He was both an artist and an engineer, known for his paintings (e.g., Mona Lisa, The Last Supper) as well as his variety of inventions (e.g., flying machine, parachute, three-speed gear shift, hydraulic jack, canal locks). The organizers of the poetry forum felt that the ideals set forth by Leonardo are an ideal way to stress the importance of creative writing within technical and scientific disciplines.

The following are some links highlighting the remarkable work, achievements, and mind of Leonardo da Vinci.

Museum of Science (http://www.mos.org/leonardo/qtvr.html)
* Includes: biographical information, interactive menus, multimedia, and educational applications
* The site allows you to navigate exhibits on Leonardo’s artwork, flight, and machines

Leonardo da Vinci: A Man of Both Worlds (http://library.thinkquest.org/3044/?tqskip1=1)
* Explores Leonardo as a man of “science” and “art”
* Includes his pictures of his art work and sketches of inventions

National Museum of Science and Technology (http://www.museoscienza.org/english/leonardo/default.htm)
* Interactive web site including information on his machines and manuscripts