ART 527: Special Topics in Art History
Credit Hours: (3)
An historical study of an art topic that may not be a significant part of the content
in regularly taught art history courses.
Note(s): May be taken again for credit.
Description of the Content of the Course
The course is designed for upper level art students and as a humanities elective for students in other majors. It fulfills a General Education requirement. The content depends entirely upon the topic selected to be taught. Possible topics include Russian avant-garde art, American art, non-western art, etc.
Description of the Conduct of the Course
This is a lecture course, but class participation in the analysis of works of art is encouraged. Slides of the art under discussion will be projected onto a large screen to provide all students with a clear visual image of each work of art. An occasional film will be shown to allow a more in-depth study of a specific topic.
Students are expected to attend class. By accepting admission to Radford University, each student makes a commitment to understand, support, and abide by the University Honor Code without compromise or exception. Violations of academic integrity will not be tolerated. This class will be conducted in strict observance of the Honor Code. Students are referred to the Student Handbook for details.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
At the conclusion of this course, the students will be able to:
1. discuss characteristics of art and civilization of the period(s) under discussion.
2. analyze a work of art with regard to style and iconography.
3. use the necessary vocabulary and basic concepts associated with the study of art
history in discussion and writing.
4. recognize the basic stylistic characteristics of the art of the period and in specific
works of art.
5. identify the major artists and works of art of the period.
6. define the role of art within the cultural, political, and sociological context
of the times.
Assessment Measures
The final grade is based largely upon a research paper and presentation. In addition, tests/quizzes, several writing assignments and attendance at outside lectures, might be required. There are no make-ups. If the student does not take a quiz or exam, or give a presentation, he or she will receive a grade of zero. The midterm and final exam will consist of slide identification, short answer, multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and one or more essay questions on a single work of art or a comparison of two works of art.
Other Course Information
There are no extra credit options for this course.
If the student has a learning disability recognized by the Disabled Student Services Office at Radford University, he or she should advise the professor of the nature of the disability during the first week of class.
Tape recording of class lectures is not permitted unless the student has a learning disability recognized by Radford University and the professor receives a formal request from the Disabled Student Services Office. At his or her discretion, the professor may allow tape recording under other special circumstances.
Review and Approval
March 1999 Revision Arthur Jones, Chair