Course Resources Archive

This module establishes a defined structure and forum for critical reflection, discussion and knowledge exchange, through various methodologies of integrating theory and practice. As such, it presents a focused opportunity for students to extend the range and nature of both their theoretical research and conceptual understanding in relation to practical work.

The core focus of analysis, and subsequent emerging discourse, could be issues relating to students’ studio work, practical work made in response to this particular module (either individually or in groups), or issues raised through the art history lecture programme. In some instances, there may be opportunities for collaboration with students from other courses, both in and outside the faculty of Art and Design.

As there are a number of distinct options as to approach and outcome of this module, students will need to agree a programme of study with the module tutor. Assessment will span practical work, written and visual research, as well as verbal discussion though regular seminars and group critique. Reflection on, and the journalistic recording of, those discussions and the contextual research they inform, will be vital material gathered in order to plan and deliver a presentation, which could form a significant part of the formal assessment.

Central to the aims and objectives of this module is the potential for students to both affirm and challenge their own approach to thinking about, and making art. This will contribute to a platform of open and flexible discourse, which has the potential to enrich and stimulate students’ own practice, the environment of the year group, and course as a whole.  

It is intended that knowledge and understanding gained through this module will help to form interests and methodologies of research, which will inform the dissertation at Level 6.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. Indentify broad contextual links in relation to their own, and peers practical/studio work
2. Generate and develop both written and visual contextual research and referencing
3. Employ a wide range of research and independent study methodologies
4. Confidently participate in discussion of complex theoretical and conceptual issues, verbally articulating personal opinions and perspectives
5. Work with others, including dealing with issues of collaboration, creative compromise and people management
6. Conduct individual and group presentations, requiring skills in planning, structuring, gathering appropriate material, use of appropriate formats e.g. power point, etc, communication, delivery, construction of points of view and arguments.
7. Self manage their own project, conceiving and realizing work within a set timescale, selecting appropriate aspect of their body of work for assessment

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.