Module overview
A fluid and dynamic approach to mapping new terrain. The module introduces the basic nature of art and the relationship between historical antecedents and current practices. It highlights the need for critical evaluation of the work of others and approaches to it, and the role of reflection in creative practice. It covers ethical considerations. It introduces a range of study skills.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- key aspects of the historical and theoretical contexts of contemporary art;
- ethical issues in contemporary art practice.
- the nature of contemporary art practice;
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- apply critical analysis to written and visual material;
- apply evaluative thinking in the development of your ideas.
- retrieve relevant written and visual research material from library, digital and exhibition sources;
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- effectively communicate your ideas in writing;
- articulate evidence-based conclusions .
Syllabus
The module introduces the fundamental mechanisms of art, and identifies landmarks of art history. It examines key aspects of art theory and the nature of contemporary art practice. It introduces a range of study skills including the ability to locate research material, visual analysis and critical evaluation. It highlights the importance of academic integrity - not misrepresenting the work of others as your own - and raises issues of ethical awareness.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include
- Lectures
- Tutorials
Learning activities include:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Peer Group Learning
- Study Skills Hub
Relationship between the teaching, learning and assessment methods and the planned learning outcomes
The module is directed by lectures which provide the intellectual and skills framework necessary to enable you to apply critical, evaluative, reflective skills to the context for your practice. Case studies drawn from current debates will present methods and approaches necessary to formulate your ideas and communicate your thinking effectively. Through lectures you will become familiar with the fundamental mechanisms of art, aspects of art history and theory, the nature of contemporary art practice and issues of ethics. This module focuses on developing the different facets of studying and communicating effectively at Undergraduate level; and the importance of self-initiated study.
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Lecture | 18 |
Completion of assessment task | 30 |
Seminar | 2 |
Wider reading or practice | 100 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Internet Resources
Academic Skills - The link below will help you develop your academic skills;.
The Library • The library provides comprehensive advice on researching and referencing material;.
Textbooks
Benjamin, W. (1936). The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction. London: Penguin.
Berger, J. (2008). Ways of Seeing.. London: Penguin Classics..
Dumbadze, A. & Hudson, S. (2013). Contemporary Art: 1989 to the Present.. Chichester: John Wiley and Sons.
Frascina, F. and Harrison, C. eds. (1982). Modern Art and Modernism: A Critical Anthology.. London: Harper and Row.
Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design.. London: Sage..
D’Alleva, A. (2005). Methods and Theories of Art History.. London: Lawrence King.
Williams, G. (2014). How to Write About Contemporary Art. London: Thames & Hudson.
Gombrich, E. (1996). The Story of Art. London: Phaidon.
Barthes, R. (1957). Mythologies.. London: Vintage Classics.
Cottrell, S. (2013). The Study Skills Handbook. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan,.
Hughes, R. (1991). The Shock of the New: Art and the Century of Change.. London: Thames and Hudson.
Walliman, N. (2010). Research Methods: The Basics.. London: Routledge.
Taylor, B (1995). Art Today. London: Laurence King.
Hatt, M. and Klonk, C. (2005). Art History: A Critical Introduction to its Methods.. Manchester: Manchester University Press..
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Blog Post Blog PostSummative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Blog Post | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Blog Post | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Blog Post | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External