NTW2035

Art & the Attention Economy

Taught by: Dr Tan Teck Heng

Reviews

AY 23/24, Sem 2

Content (Structure/Organization): 4

I think the prof tried his best to organise and clearly introduce different concepts to us every lesson, but I think because art and the attention economy can be really vague, it was more like reviewing case studies rather than learning theories. But I think it was still really fun to learn and discuss in class the topics introduced to us, so each class felt more like an open discussion but with the focus on whatever artwork it was that day

Accessibility and Assessment: 5

I think it's really accessible, there is literally no right way to approach an artwork or the topics. The prof only cares about how you arrived at the conclusion and whether you can draw evidence from the art to support your opinion. If anything I think people who have experience with english literature will find the way we analyse artworks in class to be really similar to analysing texts, but the prof still does his best to guide you so it does matter how much experience you have

Manageability of Workload: 5

I think it's arguably one of the best NTW in terms of manageable work. The prof does his best to curate the material so the drier and more heavy readings don't coincide with exam season. So I hope this convinces you that the prof really planned the course with the student's wellbeing in mind. But of course this is an NTW AHAH, and writing assignments are always there

Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades: 5

I think getting an A is really achievable, even though I did not get one I think if I just had one more chance to submit a draft, I could turn my paper into an A, but A- is definitely attainable. The prof did say that he tried to he more strict with handing out grades during my sem, but I think the raw grades you get is not indicative of your final grade because the prof not only looks at the quality of your paper, but I think also considers how you've performed during class. My final paper was a B+/A- but I think because I participated a lot in discussions the prof knows that I actually know the content, so I was given a more "deserving" final grade

Learning Value/Recommendation: 3

NTW isn't actually that scary, yeah it's a lot of writing but the hardest part is just thinking it's a chore to do

About the Instructor:

I love my professor, not only because he is well-spoken and knowledgeable of his stuff, but also because he is really encouraging of any opinion. Whenever we have discussions in class, he looks really happy at how engaged we are and actively participates with us. But more than that he really cares about our wellbeing, he takes the time to listen if you have any issues and gives such great feedback with every submission

AY 23/24, Sem 1

Name: Ryan Tan (@rnthbmax)

Content (Structure/Organization): 5

The syllabus introduces students to the basics of Art Criticism in a very approachable manner, using a mixture of readings and actual art pieces to illustrate concepts.

The structure is very forgiving in regards to academic deadlines, especially when compared to other NTWs. Prof tries his very best to make deadlines as late as he can with a lot of buffer built in, allowing for a very relaxed schedule.

Accessibility and Assessment: 4

Fairly accessible! Those who have taken History/Literature may have an easier time due to Prof being a Lit teacher and thus being more familiar with that academic approach. But, Prof really takes his time introducing concepts, both in regards to academic writing and art criticism. In addition, he is very open to consults, and is patient in clarifying concepts.

Manageability of Workload: 5

Minimal workload when compared to other NTWs. Only one single essay you are working on throughout, and some verbal components here and there.

Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades:

Prof wants to give good grades really badly, but is held back by the curve. He is rather forgiving and nice with his marks tho.

Learning Value/Recommendation: 4

Surprisingly really good! It will make you rethink how you approach art and museums, and it has made art as a whole a lot more deep and interesting to me.

About the Instructor:

He is amazing. Unbelievably kind and really passionate about his subject, I thoroughly enjoyed this course, and a large part of that was cause of prof.