Learning outcomes

Students successfully completing this module should be:

• aware of the limitations of the transmission model of communication;

• aware of the active interpretative dimension in visual perception and reading;

• able to identify some of the processes of mediation involved in the visual construction of reality;

• aware of their own standpoints on the constructedness of reality;

• able to identify stances which involve technological or media determinism;

• able to reflect critically on their own experience of using various media;

• aware of prevailing media ecologies in education.

Brief description

The main focus of this module is on how visual experience is mediated. 'Reality' is always a constructed representation. The materials used (such as visual illusions) may make the module seem similar to a 'visual literacy' course. It should appeal to students who are interested in how we interpret (and differ in interpreting) what we see in the world and in 'texts' (whatever the medium). Most people assume that visual perception, reading and watching TV involve relatively 'passive' processes of
assimilation by the 'receiver'. Our study of the openness of visual texts to interpretation will challenge such assumptions. We will explore some of the processes of mediation involved when viewers and readers construct 'reality', 'the world', 'meaning' and 'information'. For TFTS students, this module offers a foundation for a viewer-oriented study of television and film.

Aims of the module

- to examine the active processes of construction involved in visual perception;
- to demonstrate 'the beholder's share' in 'going beyond the information given'.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes

Typically, upon completion of this module, a student will be able to:

- display an understanding of the active interpretative dimension in visual perception;
- identify some of the processes of mediation involved in the visual construction of reality;
- articulate their own standpoints on the constructedness of reality.

Syllabus

The lectures are based on the following:

Visual Perception 1: Searching for Patterns
Visual Perception 2: The Third Dimension
Visual Perception 3: Cultural and Environmental Factors
Visual Perception 4: Individual Differences, Purposes and Needs
Visual Perception 5: Context and Expectations; Categorization and Selectivity
Visual Perception 6: Gestalt Principles of Visual Organization
Active Reader (1)
Active Reader (2)
Active TV Viewer

The tutorials provide opportunities to investigate and discuss themes from the lectures.

Website

Essential study materials are available online on the module's own website at:

http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Modules/TF12710/

Aims

• to introduce some key issues in media theory with a focus on the nature of media and theories of media influence on human   
   behaviour;

• to examine processes of mediation in communication and the construction of reality, focusing on visual perception and reading;

• to analyse critically theories of technological determinism;

• to discuss the work of major theorists on the history, philosophy, psychology and sociology of communication;

• to suggest implications for education.

Content

Introduction; models of communication; notions of 'reality'
Visual Perception 1: Searching for Patterns
Visual Perception 2: The Third Dimension
Visual Perception 3: Cultural and Environmental Factors
Visual Perception 4: Individual Differences, Purposes and Needs
Visual Perception 5: Context and Expectations; Categorization and Selectivity
Visual Perception 6: Gestalt Principles of Visual Organization
Active Reader (1)
Active Reader (2)
Technological Determinism
Marshall McLuhan

The tutorials provide opportunities to investigate and discuss themes from the lectures.

Reading Lists