This module focuses on key methods in the processes of research and its interpretation and communication. Through a series of thematically structured, contemporary focused encounters with key artefacts, texts, events and sites from the late 19th century to the present, it aims to develop students' knowledge and skills in a range of methods related to the history and theory of the production, consumption and mediation of art and design. The module interrogates core concepts in the disciplines of art and design history and theory and introduces key methods for the identification and interpretation of research material, including: conducting oral history, using archives, and employing material culture and gendered approaches to objects. The module also introduces students to key methods in communicative and interpretative activities such as different curation and critical writing modes. This combination of methods will connect their research-based practice to contemporary audiences interested in art and design past and present, providing be key skills for professional careers. Finally, the module will develop students' critically informed awareness of their own research-based practice.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures, seminars, visits, workshops, individual and group tutorials | 44 |
| Guided independent study | 256 | |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
The module places emphasis on methods and approaches to art and design history and its communication. Students will develop their ideas for their portfolio essay through an assessed verbal and visual presentation. Students will develop their individual research project through a portfolio of written components that could include a visual essay, exhibition text, blog entry and book review, poster and research toolkit.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Apply research skills to explore and articulate contemporary issues in the history and theory of art and design from the late 19th century to the present | Presentation and Portfolio |
| 2) Demonstrate a disciplinary understanding of art and design history and theory | Portfolio |
| 3) Demonstrate understanding and skills in methods for the interpretation and visual, verbal and written communication of research including curation and critical writing modes | Presentation and Portfolio |
| 4) Demonstrate understanding of themselves as research-based practitioners | Portfolio |
| 5) Identify individual interests in relation to the art and design practice, history and theory | Presentation and Portfolio |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Presentation | Practical Exam | 30% |
| Portfolio | Coursework | 70% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any major assessment category is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
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