BAPD2310 Aesthetic, culture and Sustainability in Critical Perspectives Course description

This module addresses the practice of design as seen from cultural and social perspectives. The primary focus is on written analysis, discussion and argumentation.

Successful completion of the first year of the BA programme, or equivalent qualifation

No requirements for prior knowledge

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and competence:

Knowledge

The student

• is capable of analysing the relationships between culture and sustainability from theoretical and societal perspectives
• is capable of discussing and arguing in academic and other professional contexts
• has knowledge of and shows empathy in relation to different cultural paradigms
• has knowledge of aesthetics and these apply in different cultural contexts
• has knowledge of, and insight into the relationship between theoretical perspectives, practical design work and innovation

Skills

The student is capable of

• discussing and relating to theoretical problems
• using aesthetic elements in the development of products in different cultural contexts
• mastering written presentations and argumentation that adheres to professional and academic expectations.

Competence

The student is capable of

• exchanging opinions and experiences with other academics and professionals
• reflecting on and assessing his/her own professional and aesthetic points of view
• reflecting on his/her own development in the learning process and adjusting this under supervision

This module seeks to foster knowledge about the relationships between culture and sustainability, and the role aesthetics play in influencing these. The definitions of the terms culture, aesthetics and sustainability and how these all relate will be presented and put forward for discussion. Key ethical issues relating to these matters will also addressed.   The module is intended to further students' abilities in critical thinking, written analysis and argumentation, and by extension of this their ability to partake in professional discourse. The work will culminate in a written assignment targeted for publication in a professional journal.

Lectures and workshops Literature study Individual- and group work Individual and group tutorials

The following coursework is compulsory and must be approved before the student can take the exam:

• A written assignment emphasising critical reflection and academic argumentation
• Reflective note

Written assignment. Students have the option of collaborating in pairs to develop a shared submission.

The exam result can be appealed.

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for referencing are complied with.

A grading scale from A - F where A is the highest grade and F constitutes a fail.

Two internal examiners. External examiners are used intermittently.