Module TitleContextual And Critical Studies − Dissertation

KeywordsFine Art, Design, Self−directed Research, Critical Enquiry,Theory, Culture.

Reference AA4310SCQF Level SCQF 10SCQF Points 30ECTS Points 15Created May 2002Approved June 2014Amended June 2010Revision No. 1

Prerequisites for Module

The successful completion of Stage 3 modules.AA3310 Contextual & Critical Studies − Exploring Contextand AA3311 Contextual & Critical Studies − Research & Enquiryor equivalent

Corequisite Modules

None.

Precluded Modules

None.

Aims of Module

This module will build upon students' introduction to self−directedstudy and research in Contextual and Critical Studies, stage 3.The core skills of research, analysis, synthesis andcommunication will be expanded upon, further enabling studentsto communicate effectively and creatively the critical position oftheir practice and research of practice.

Learning Outcomes for Module

On completion of this module, students are expected to be ableto:

1. Plan and conduct independent research including theintegration of primary research giving rationale/s for researchmethods chosen.

2. Demonstrate informed and critical awareness of theirprofessional context and be able to locate their own practicewithin it.

3. Analyse appropriately selected historical and contemporarythemes in fine art and design within the context ofprofessional practice.

4. Apply critical and analytical thinking to the rigorous enquiryand conceptual exploration of ideas related to the context ofpractice and research of practice.

5. Synthesise, analyse and evaluate information gathered fromtheir research and communicate effectively in writing, visualand oral materials .

Indicative Module Content

The module is devoted to self−directed research on a topic of thestudents’ own invention that is related to their studio work and isarrived at by negotiation with their tutors. This module builds onknowledge and research skills developed in precedingContextual and Critical Studies modules. Semester 1 will includea series of seminars and tutorials aimed at guiding studentsthrough the development of an appropriate topic, research andwriting. Students will be required to integrate and evaluate theirown primary research findings, this will be supported throughadditional seminar input in semester 2.

Specially designed tasks, ongoing peer−review and formativefeedback from tutors will be provided.

Emphasis is placed on the enhancement of professionalself−awareness and transferrable skills in critical analysis andcommunication, thus encouraging life−long learning andemployability.

Indicative Student Workload

Contact Hours Full TimeLectures,seminars,group/individualtutorial support

25

Directed Study75

Private Study200

Mode of Delivery

This module consists primarily of self−directed research andwriting, with time allocated for group seminars, individual tutorialsand further reading. Visits from professionals in the field, andnational and international study visits, may form part of thecurriculum.

Assessment Plan

Learning Outcomes AssessedCoursework 1,2,3,4,5

Submission of written coursework (Dissertation)

Indicative Bibliography

1. There is no standard bibliography in this module.

Additional Notes

Students are required to identify (and be guided towards), arange of texts relevant to their Contextual and Critical research.These will typically include textbooks, journals and on lineresources writen by critics, historians, curators, philosophers,theorists or artists and designers.