Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit provides a survey-style introduction to art history from the late Middle Ages to the present day. Each week students are presented with an in-depth study of a significant ‘moment', a canonical artwork that captures its period and culture. These moments are then placed into wider historical, political or social contexts, introducing students to key tenets of art historical discourse. The unit trains students in visual literacy, the reading of images in our increasingly visual world, as well as basic communication and research skills, which prepare students for a range of disciplines.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 1OnlineOnline timetabled
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the History of Art major sequence
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) know the basic historical and cultural contexts of some key examples of art and design; (2) undertake basic visual and analysis of the formal properties of art and design objects; (3) use a range of different texts to develop basic historical and critical interpretations of images; (4) acquire the protocols of basic research techniques used in art historiography such as some specialised critical vocabulary, different formats of reporting, essay writing and referencing; and (5) develop basic communication skills in interpersonal relations, oral discussion and essay writing on art and design works.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) written assignment; (2) oral participation; and (3) examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Arvi Wattel
Unit rules
Incompatibility
VISA1000 Great Moments in Art
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 1 hour per week
Note
This unit examines art as a form of cultural history. In its content and outcomes, it pairs well with the theoretical focus of HART1003 Ways of Seeing: Themes and Theories in Art, but may be taken independently as well.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.