Study Guide

Learning outcomes

Proficiency level: B2

The student is able to
- communicate clearly and effectively in different generic and field-specific workplace situations both orally and in writing
- find, evaluate and use information effectively
- function collaboratively in international working environments.

Implementation and methods of teaching

This course is taught in class.
The focus is on learning through lively face-to-face interaction which aims to simulate the activities of professional artists. In addition to reading about various developments in the fine arts and listening to authentic discussions on them, students will also discuss the developments themselves, take part in various activities, such as problem-solving activities, panel discussions, project launches, debates, information-gathering, interviews, presentations, and meetings.

Timing and attendance

Periods 3 and 4 (Spring 2022)
1 lesson per week, each lesson comprising 2 sessions. Each session is about 1½ hours in length. There will be a 15-minute break in between the sessions.
Absences from 6 sessions allowed, but not more than 4 in either period.

Learning material and recommended literature

All material will be provided by the teacher in class. They are based on authentic reading texts from publications such as The Guardian, The New York Times, The Economist, the BBC, etc., and authentic listening material from broadcasting stations such as the BBC, NPR, Radio Australia, etc.

Learning environment

Dynamic and collaborative classroom learning environment that provides space and time for creative experimentation.

Student time use and work load

4 credits, equivalent to 100-120 hours of work, divided as follows:
• Lessons in class: 44 hours
• Homework and self-study: 56+ hours

Contents

Various topics of relevance to professionals working in the fine arts such as art’s role in society, art as therapy, art and politics, performance art, controversies in the art world, interesting artists (both past and present), technology in art.

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

B2 level English skills (according to the Common European Framework for Languages). Students with less than B2 level skills—who wish to be challenged and who are willing to put in extra effort—are also welcome.

Assessment criteria

Continuous in-class assessment of speaking, conversing, reading and listening skills, based on work done on tasks given. If deemed necessary, reading and listening quizzes will be given in class to ascertain the students’ skill in these areas.

Assessment scale

Approved/Failed

Assessment criteria: assessment scale failed/approved

The student has good overall English skills (a solid B2 level of competence), and also attempts occasionally to express more complex ideas using higher level language, with varying degrees of success. By and large, the student demonstrates sufficiently good ability to:
• follow and discuss, on a professional level, developments in the fine arts.
• participate successfully in international professional activities, such as seminars, conferences, interviews, presentations and meetings.