Module: DAN5206-20 Creative Lab

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Zhi Xu

Module Tutor Contact Details: z.xu@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module will provide a creative environment for you to explore and epxeriement with how dance might operaate in different interdisciplinary contexts. Collaboration will be at the heart of this module, and key to your learning and development. You will develop awareness of how dance is situated within, and converses with, the broader context of the arts and digital technology. The module challenges you to engage in a substantial creative project, stretching you beyond the comfort of working within dance as a discreet subject, and offering you opportunities to work creatively with others. The module aims to prepare you for the increased demands of Independent Learning required at Level 6.

2. Outline syllabus: 

The module will begin with a series of themed workshops to provide you with different immersive creative environments. Dance and technology workshops will offer foundational skills within new, exciting virtual spaces (e.g virtual reality, augmented reality or mixed reality.   Explorations around multimedia composition, screendance, real-time interaction and installation will encourage you to imagine how technology can enhance and develop the way we view and experience movement.

Collaborative workshops will focus on the shared and distinctive features between dance and related subjects ( e.g. music, creative media), in order to establish shared knowledge. You will explore a range of collaborative models, reflecting on how disciplines interact, and are informed by each other.   Effective communication and an openness to new ideas will be key to finding the full potential within the work.

The second stage of the module asks you to take responsibility and shape your own project.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The first part of the module will consist of a series of practical workshops focused on exposing you to different interdisciplinary practices.  Where new skills are required, application demos and technical instruction will be offered. The teaching will be frontloaded, with the expectation that the second half of the module will be student-led with tutor support. You will be given substantial time to explore and workshop your ideas, with your findings and outcomes feeding a creative portfolio. Documentation and self-critique will be an important part of the process. Regular critiques of your explorations from your peers and tutor will support the development of your ideas. 

You will receive regular tutor support to ensure you continue to stretch your choreographic skills through the engagement with new materials, environments and other curiosities. Outcomes will reflect the experimental nature of the module.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description:  Creative Portfolio 

• % Weighting: 100%