Module: VM7004-30 Practice in a Global Context

Level: 7

Credit Value: 30

Module Tutor: Stuart Henley

Module Tutor Contact Details: s.henley@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module

This module relates directly to Practice in Context, however here the focus is on a diverse audience linked by a common interest, instead of a geographical location with a local audience. The aims are to develop a visual communication project for a particular interest group that may be located in a wide range of locations across the world, whilst gaining experience working in collaboration with another MA student or practitioner.

You will have the opportunity to identify a culturally and geographically diverse group through a common interest and develop a visual communication project designed specifically for it. You may use any of the MA Visual Communication specialisms: Photography, Illustration and/or Graphic Design, working in collaboration with one or more others.

You will have the opportunity to formulate a clear structured approach to this project, bringing knowledge gained from your other modules, to inform its design. You should carefully consider the implications that variations in language, laws and customs may have on the project. At the end of the module you will be asked to present a 1500-word summative critique of the project, its strengths and weaknesses, along with the finished visual communication project and relevant research materials.

2.Outline syllabus

The syllabus will normally cover:

• An understanding of audience, for example variations in age, class, nationality, gender, geography, culture, religion and the Implications of international legislative contexts

•Technical challenges, including different media and online platforms, and how these might be utilised

• Political and cultural sensitivities around the world

• Global legibility

• Implications of rapidly changing global contexts for practice and visual communication

• Reference to commercial skills: contracts, commissioning, negotiation, self-promotion

You will consider these topics in relation to you own visual communication practice

3.Teaching and Learning Methods

You will be expected to collaborate in your visual communication project, either with MA Visual Communication or other post graduate student(s), or with an external organisation or individual (with prior approval by the tutor).

The module will be delivered through a combination of seminars, workshops, tutorials and a multi-disciplinary studio-based culture, to support collaboration. You will be expected to be largely independent in identifying relevant primary and secondary sources specific to the project that you pursue.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Research folder
• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: A 1500-word critique of the project
• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 3:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: A resolved visual communication project
• % Weighting: 60%