Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit deconstructs the visual language/s of popular culture by exploring the notion that film, television, magazines, fashion, advertising, comics, computer graphics and the internet are amongst the most powerful and persuasive communicators of ideas, attitudes, beliefs and stereotypes in our contemporary world. Using the techniques of semiotics and contemporary theory students learn to interpret and deconstruct the meaning of the various mediums of popular culture.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, student will:

1. be familiar with the salient ideas and methodologies of semiotics, and how these may contribute to an understanding of art and design;
2. be familiar with the salient ideas and differences between structuralist and post-structuralist thought, and be able to make connections between these ideas and art and design practice;
3. be able to use semiotics to critically decode and analyse the images and texts of popular culture;
4. have an awareness and understanding of the cultural roles and responsibilities of professional communicators in today's society.

Assessment

Research essay (2000 words): 40%
Short analytical essay (1000 words): 30%
One tutorial paper (1000 words): 25%
Class participation: 5%

Chief examiner(s)

Daniel Palmer

Contact hours

One 1 hour lecture and one 2 hour tutorial per week

Prerequisites

Must have passed 12 credit points at second year level in Theory of Art and Design, Visual Culture or Cultural Studies

Prohibitions

TAD3217,TAD2207