Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Discussions centre around the design projects of students but are thematically structured by topics in contemporary theory. Designs may be considered in relation to social issues involving gender, class and ethnic differences; and students are expected to outline the place that their designs occupy in the continuum of design evolution and social critique. Critical attention is given to the methodological factors that might influence how the project is steered, an examination that particularly evaluates the social value and interests associated with the intentions behind the project.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, students will:

1. have a secure grasp of certain key concepts in contemporary theory which have particular bearing on their field of design;
2. be keen to relate the terms of their practice to broader discourses;
3. be able candidly to identify the values in their projects, especially related to gender, class and ethnicity and consider the possible case against the assumptions of their practice;
4. be keen to practice criticism in small forums, considering and conjecturing how aesthetic standards (such as style and taste) are the expression of non-absolute cultural values, and identifying critical questions of other people's practice;
5. be equipped to sustain an exegetical defence of their work and its placement in current visual production;
6. be equipped to outline the investigative and creative steps taken in the design process and have a critical understanding of how the chosen method fits alongside other paradigms of art, design and social inquiry.

Assessment

Class paper (2000 words):30%
Class paper (4000 words):70%

Contact hours

3 hours of lectures and seminars and 9 hours of independent study per week

Prerequisites

TAD4521