Module: CST4004-20 How Did We Get Here?: Contexts of Photography

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: James Baggott-Brown

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.brown@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

You will develop a range of critical, analytical, and research skills as the module introduces you to the study of the histories and contexts of visual and material culture as it informs contemporary photography practice. Concepts such as creativity, presentation, and mediation will be considered along with an investigation of research in visual and material culture, critical writing, and visual critique. The historical and aesthetic characteristics of works of photography produced during selected historical periods will be utilised to demonstrate how and why we create, value, and engage with our visual and material culture.

2.Outline syllabus

The main themes and issues considered are:

● Critical, theoretical and contextual approaches to studying the production and consumption of visual and material culture,

● Key texts and current debates in the field(s),

● Key historical developments in the practice of photography and their social and cultural contexts.

These issues are addressed through a variety of examples drawn from global origins.

3.Teaching and learning activities

Teaching is by presentations, critical conversations, workshops and online forums (any of these might take place in a physical teaching space or online). Students are encouraged to develop independent and collaborative learning skills through set preparation for seminars, contributing to online forums, the devising of appropriate assessment subjects, the identification of associated research, formative tasks and summative assessments.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Portfolio of critical writing and weekly tests (4000 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 100%