MEST4320 Project in Practice Course description

In this course, the students will carry out a practical project based on the programme option's areas of competence such as teaching, dissemination, creative production and curating. The work focuses on idea development, innovation, critical analysis and reflection. Production, presentation, documentation and communication are part of the practical work. The project can be carried out in collaboration with external parties. Several students can cooperate on a project. The students’ practical work is seen in conjunction with relevant contemporary discourses and in a research context.

No requirements over and above the admission requirements.

Knowledge

The student:

• has in-depth knowledge of project work development in a research context
• has in-depth knowledge of relevant Nordic and international contemporary discourses
• is capable of carrying out project work on the basis of ethical and professional analysis and reflection
• has broad knowledge of the programme areas of competence and specialised insight into a defined area

Skills

The student:

• is capable of planning, carrying out and documenting an independent professional project
• is capable of using professional knowledge to shape, discuss and choose relevant forms of presentation and communication
• is capable of familiarising him/herself with the Nordic and international art and culture field, and of using relevant references to structure and formulate independent professional argumentation and positions
• is capable of reflecting critically on his/her own and others’ practical work in a broader knowledge-based context

Competence

The student:

• is capable of contributing to project development, new ideas and innovation processes
• is capable of applying his/her knowledge and skills to new fields to carry out advanced tasks and projects

The teaching comprises project work such as workshops, group work and the students’ own independent work. Lectures and presentations are included in the course. Individual and group supervision is provided. Students must participate in teaching activities and group work. High demands are made of independent creative work and critical reflection.

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

• a plan for the presentation or exhibition of the student’s own project followed by professional argumentation

The module addresses design practice from a cultural and societal perspective. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and exploration of cultural variables that influence the role of design in society. Particular emphasis is placed on aesthetics and sustainability and how working with these can affect society.

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 refelcting on the relationships between culture, sustainability and aestehtics
• is capable of discussing and arguing in academic and other professional 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 concepts
• using aesthetic elements in design for different cultural contexts
• mastering written presentations and argumentation including visualizations/materializations 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

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