module specification

This module provides an introduction to a range of approaches to photographic practice, through workshops and set briefs.  Areas explored include: use of materials, equipment, processes and technical applications and how ideas can be developed through making.

The module involves a series of demonstrations, exercises and short projects, introducing and developing particular technical applications, in relation to different aspects of lens based practice.

This module relates to and is linked with other modules at this level and encourages students to test out and explore different approaches to photographic practice.

The module aims to:
• Equip students with basic skills and key concepts relevant to contemporary photographic practice;
• Introduce a range of key examples from traditional and contemporary photographic practice;
• Support students to begin to identify their own approach to photographic practice

Indicative Content:

• Range of technical workshops and short projects;
• Testing of approaches towards technical processes in photography;
• Evaluation and reflection introduced through group critiques, tutorials and presentations;
• Structured feedback & individual guidance.

The Learning and Teaching strategy for the module introduces students to UG learning and approaches to visual practice. The range of learning and teaching methods include:

Peer review and critiques that encourage students to develop communication skills, to analyse and critically evaluate and engage with their own work and the work of others.

Student presentations that support students to interrogate their own approaches and develop presentation skills and also provide a platform for debate and engagement in the wider spheres of art and culture.

Introduction to techniques and processes through technical workshops that engage students in a wide range of approaches to photography and lens based technologies, from early historical processes to contemporary digital applications. These will consider, through practical testing, related conceptual implications.

In addition, students are encouraged to make maximum use of the resources available to them in terms of the IT provision, both within the Faculty and the library. Blended Learning /weblearn includes the provision of course and module information on the web, lecture notes, feedback, and blogs are used to enhance independent learning.

On completing the module, students should be able to:

1. Test processes and develop technical skills in order to support the development of an individual photographic practice;
2. Create work which demonstrates research, exploration and an engagement in the subject;
3. Respond to projects and exercises in a creative and experimental way;
4. Demonstrate an engagement in the module, manage workloads and meet deadlines.

Students are required to demonstrate sound attendance, engagement and participation throughout the module. Failure to do so, will impact adversely upon assessment outcomes.

There are two main assessment components: 80% Folio of practice; 20% Supporting studies

The assessment strategy includes formative assessments throughout the year with tutorial feedback,  which is designed to encourage and support students to develop and improve their work. Interim review offers the opportunity to reflect upon the work in relation to the module’s learning outcomes and this, together with finished project work and supporting material, will inform the assessment panel at the summative assessment at the end of the year.

Students will evaluate their own learning on the module using the given criteria. They will also write a short critical appraisal (summary statement) of their work which will form the basis for discussion at assessment feedback following formal coursework assessment.

Summative assessment takes place at the end of the module. Written feedback addresses the strengths and areas for development of individual presentations in relation to grading criteria.

Work will be assessed against the learning outcomes in relation to the following criteria:

• Appropriate use of research methods
• Quality of analysis and interpretation
• Subject knowledge and relevance
• Quality of communication and presentation
• Appropriate use of problem solving, testing and experimentation
• Management of own learning and personal professional development

Diprose, G. (2012) Photography: Techniques, Principles, Practice London: Thames and Hudson
Evening, M. (2005) Adobe Photoshop CC for Photographers, London: Focal Press
Fox, A. (2002) Basics Creative Photography: Research in Photography, London: AVA Books
Freeman, M. (2008) The Digital SLR Handbook London: Ilex
Ingledew, J. (2013) Photography London: Lawrence King
Jaeger, A. (2010) Image Makers, Image Takers, London: Thames and Hudson
Langford, M (2001) Langford’s Basic Photography London: Focal Press