Instructor Information

Adjunct Professor Dan Fergus (call me “Fergus”)

Adjunct Office: F3380 (Totino)
Spring Office hours: Mon, Wed: 9am–10:30am
E-mail : dcfergus[at]unwsp.edu (or) use this form

Course Description

An introductory study of art appreciation. The course covers the elements and principles of design as an entry into discussion surrounding the meaning and purpose of visual imagery. Concepts emerge from the content areas of aesthetics, art history, and critical inquiry.

• Credits: 2
• Prerequisite: none

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to :

• Define art and related vocabulary (Knowledge Level)
• Identify and distinguish between various artistic movements and time periods & significant contributing artists (Comprehension Level)
• Demonstrate vocabulary related to the elements and principles of art (Application Level)
• Analyze works of art using basic methodologies (Analysis Level)
• Apply art principles and concepts in the creation of an original comprehensive project (Synthesis Level)

Texts and Materials

Required

• The majority of the material for this class (readings, etc.) can be found at Trivium (http://arthistoryproject.com/)
• Links to additional readings and materials (videos, etc.) will be provided as needed.
• Some additional materials may be needed but will be self evident when you need them. There will be options of possible making assignments that would need resources such as pencils, paper, paint, scissors, etc. to accomplish some creative assignments, but will not be limited to these materials specifically. More details will be revealed as we proceed through the quad

Suggested (by not required)

• Lewis, Richard & Lewis, Susan, I. (2009). The Power of Art. (2nd Edition). California: Thomas Wadsworth.

Course Structure

Class presentations and formal lectures on the principles of art are the primary form of presentation. Some supplementary videos, online readings, and other resources will be used and can be found on this classes Moodle site (or links to said resources). Some research and library access may be beneficial and essential in gathering further data in regards to the final project. Basically, the University of Northwestern is your form of presentation, get everything out of your professors and your fellow students, and you will thrive.

Web Resources

Course content, assignments, schedules, supplementary resources, and this syllabus are available through the Moodle site. Students should check the Moodle site at least 2-3 times each week, preferably prior to each class session. Many assignments are available exclusively on-line. Students who do not directly engage with the course site will likely fail this course.

Note that new assignments, readings, and other resources will appear/become available on Moodle throughout the semester; for example—just because you don't see an assignment listed for week 5 now does not mean there won't be one once week 5 rolls around. Be vigilant.

Student Responsibilities

The student is expected to come to every class with the appropriate materials needed to participate that day. This includes a notebook, pen and/or pencils, text book (when appropriate), and whatever additional materials are required to complete the in-class assignment. The student is also expected to perform in-class activities with rigor. Additionally, students are responsible for reading, understanding and appropriately responding to this course syllabus, other course materials, and instructions from the professor. All required course materials will be delivered in class and/or on Moodle. Other supporting information beneficial to the course is available elsewhere on-line. Students are responsible for all pertinent college policies as found in the college catalog and student handbook. Digital university catalogs and the student handbook can be obtained on the ROCK.

Cell Phones

Unless otherwise noted, cell Phones are not allowed in my classroom unless they are silent and out of sight. Cell phones must be turned-off or placed in vibrate mode, and left in backpacks, bags, purses, or pockets. If I see one, I will confiscate it for the balance of the class. There is one exception: when we reach the creative project portion of the course, you will be permitted to use cell phones to communicate with fellow group members, to do research, and to photograph/document your project.

Earbuds/headphones

This class is an earbud-free zone. Wearing earbuds or headphones in class during lectures and discussions shows disrespect for the professor and fellow students. Students are not allowed to wear or otherwise have visible earbuds or other headphones. Make sure you remove and put-away any and all earbuds and other headgear before you cross the threshold of the classroom. If I see any, I will confiscate them. And if you do not immediately turn them over to me when I ask for them, you will receive an "F" as a class participation grade and asked to leave.

Laptops

Laptop computers are permitted in class as long as they are being used for classwork—taking notes, class-related research, using design applications to complete projects where appropriate, etc. Laptop computers should not be used for social media, emailing, game playing, streaming sporting events, fantasy football, etc. during class. If I find that you are misusing your laptop privileges, I will confiscate the device for the duration of that day’s class, and not allow you to use a laptop in future classes.