Module Identifier MG20610  
Module Title CERAMICS AND COLLECTION INTERPRETATION  
Academic Year 2007/2008  
Co-ordinator Mr Robert K Meyrick  
Semester Intended for use in future years  
Next year offered 2007  
Next semester offered 2  
Pre-Requisite AH10120  
Course delivery Lecture   x 6  
  Seminars / Tutorials   x 6  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Assessment Project  60%
Semester Assessment Computer aided learning test  40%

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
1. have the ability to recognise, date and identify selected pieces from the ceramic collection
2. have the ability to recognise and describe basic ceramic techniques and terminology
3. have the knowledge and experience of new practical or transferable skills. This may include keyboard skills, computer technology, writing catalogue entries, preparing exhibition or educational material, transcribing tapes, or editing video material
4. possess experience of working on a group project and will develop an awareness of the responsibilities of group activity

Relation to Assessment:
Computer Aided Learning Test (1,2,3), Project (2,3,4)
The CAL Test provides an opportunity to assess a student's learning experience through new technology, and their ability to identify and discuss in an informed manner ceramics techniques, the history of ceramics and contemporary practice. The Project assesses ability to work in groups and individually and apply the practical and theoretical skills learned.

Brief description

The module provides a grounding in the history of ceramics with special reference to the Ceramics Collection and Archive at Aberystwyth. The Collection has examples from the earliest period (archaeological) through to contemporary studio ceramics together with a paper archive, and an oral history archive, largely relating to studio ceramics. Students are introduced to the basic techniques of ceramics and examine aspects of ceramic history through the study of works in the Collection. The project allows students to develop the learning experience by applying their knowledge to a particular aspect of collection development. Project work draws on research around the ceramic collection and the oral history archive. It might involve: developing a display for the ceramic gallery; interviewing, transcribing and analysing tapes; work based on the production of material for computer books i.e. multimedia databases of written and visual material including sound and video; or work in conjunction with Aberystwyth Arts Centre. The project will be a major aspect of the course. It will normally be a collaborative piece of work and will be initiated at the start of the course and run alongside the lectures and seminars.

Aims

1. introduce ceramic history through a study of techniques, artefacts, paper and oral documentation
2. encourage a learning experience that includes research based on the ceramic collection and the oral history archive
3. develop research skills such as interview techniques, transcription and analysis
4. introduce students to technology and database management associated with the collection
5. provide experience in the educational and promotional aspect of collection management

Content

Transferable skills

1 Independent project work
A variety of projects and assignments will be offered which students elect to undertake.
2 IT and information handling
Database handling
Internet searches and web pages
   Word processing
3 Use and analysis of numerical information
None.
4 Writing in an academic context
Project.
5 Oral discussion and presentation
Workshops, seminars and group activities.
6 Careers need awareness
The module is specifically for students considering a career in museums, art gallery administration, public art organisations, freelance curators and exhibition organisers, and in private galleries.
7 Self-management
Course work and project/assignment and seminar preparation.
8 Group activity
Workshops, seminars and group activities

Reading Lists

Books
Frances Hannah (1986) Ceramics Bell and Hyman, London
Moira Vincentelli (1992) Talking Pots Ceramics in Wales Wales School of Art Press, Aberystwyth
Moira Vincentelli (1993) The Ceramic Collection Aberystwyth The School of Art Press, Aberystwyth
Moira Vincentelli (2000) Women and Ceramics: Gendered Vessels Manchester University Press, Manchester
Oliver Watson (1990) British Studio Pottery Phaidon, Oxford
The Ceramic Archive Bulletin 1997, 1998, 1999

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 5