Research and Reflective Practice

Abstract

This subject provides an understanding of the context in which creative practitioners work and an introduction to contemporary art and design theory. Students will study the emergence and development of design and the creative industries as an area of professional practice, focussing on key points of change from the nineteenth century to the present. Selected key issues will be covered, including the influence of political, social and technological changes on practice historically and in the present. An independent research component provides an opportunity for in-depth investigation of an area of art and design relevant to each student, to introduce diverse research methodologies, and encompass practice-led and practice-as-research strategies and content. The subject gives emphasis to students situating their own research and reflective practice.

Syllabus

Design reform and the emergence of the professionEarly twentieth century design: from 'craft' to mass productionPost WW2 design: consumerism and affluenceThe late twentieth century: pluralism and diversityThe twenty-first century: globalisation, sustainability and beyondResearch methodologies towards creative practiceSituating practice in relation to historical and contemporary art and design contextsPossibilities for preferred … For more content click the Read More button below.

Design reform and the emergence of the profession
Early twentieth century design: from 'craft' to mass production
Post WW2 design: consumerism and affluence
The late twentieth century: pluralism and diversity
The twenty-first century: globalisation, sustainability and beyond
Research methodologies towards creative practice
Situating practice in relation to historical and contemporary art and design contexts
Possibilities for preferred futures

Assessment items

1. Research Proposal and Annotated Resources

2. Short Research Seminar

3. Essay or Sketchbook

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to evaluate and explain the impact of political, social and technological changes on historic and contemporary art and design;

be able to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of an area of research in art and design relevant to their own professional practice;

be able to situate their own professional practice in relation to historical and contemporary contexts;

be able to engage in debates on a range of contemporary issues in art and design including ethical and responsible practices;

be able to demonstrate the use and structure of appropriate critical academic writing, research and referencing; and

be able to demonstrate informed knowledge of diverse research methodologies towards creative practice.

Enrolment restrictions

Not available to students who have completed ART304 Aspects of Design

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