Time Schedule:
Deborah Caplow
BIS 300
Bothell Campus
Introduction to advanced work in interdisciplinary studies centered on broadly based questions and problems. Stresses the skills necessary to engage in upper-division research and learning in the Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences Program.
Class description
This course will introduce students to the Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences Program (IAS) and to concepts of interdisciplinary study and research in general. Students will focus their research on the remodeled Seattle Art Museum (opening in May 2007) and Seattle Art Museum's new Olympic Sculpture Garden, both through library research and hands-on experience. Looking at these collections, students will explore a range of art and culture, including American and European painting, printmaking and photography, and Asian, African and Native American art. This course provides students with the opportunity improve their abilities to interpret closely, think and write critically, communicate clearly, investigate questions effectively and work collaboratively. Students will gain a sense of competence as researchers and as interpreters of visual culture, within regional, national and global contexts. The class will involve two or more field trips to museums.
Student learning goals
Learn to formulate insightful and relevant research questions.
Learn to use library resources for in-depth research.
Acquire skills in visual analysis and interpretation.
Become more collaborative in working on research projects with other students.
Gain an awareness of art history and institutional history as related to the Seattle Art Museum.
Learn critical thinking skills in relation to art and its cultural/historical/political contexts.
General method of instruction
Classroom lecture and discussion, library group sessions, field trips.
Recommended preparation
Strong interest in art and culture; willingness to approach new material thoughtfully and analytically.
Class assignments and grading
Short writing assignments, term paper and library exercises.
Short writing assignments, term paper, collaborative library work, class participation.
