This module aims to:

•Develop students’ ability to read, discuss and write critically about the photographic image

•Provide students with an introduction to the history of photography, from the daguerreotype to the digital photograph.

•Examine key theoretical frameworks and contemporary debates on photographs.

In helping students to develop their understanding and evaluation of photographic texts, the module seeks to enhance their critical and analytic skills, as well as their comprehension of the social and ideological discourses photography participates in more broadly.

(LO1) Students will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the components of a photographic image; its different private and public uses; and its historical changes.

(LO2) Students will be able to discuss relevant theories, debates and key concepts in the analysis of photographs.

(LO3) Students will be able to show they understand the impact of photography in key historical events.

(S1) Research-related skills — locate, discuss, analyse, evaluate information from international sources.

(S2) Literacy skills — oral literacy, including listening and questioning; the application of literacy demonstrated through the ability to produce clear, structured written work.

(S3) Problem solving/critical thinking skills — analysing facts and situations and applying creative thinking to develop appropriate solutions.

(S4) Ethical awareness — identify and utilise international/global perspectives as professionals and citizens, consider issues from a variety of cultural perspectives, consider ethical and social responsibility issues in international settings; value diversity of language and culture.

Topics may include:

Introduction

Reading Photographs

Photography, Indexicality and Affect

Photojournalism and the Decisive Moment

Photography in the Digital Age

Photography and Social Media

Photography and Human Rights

Photo montages and Memory

Instant Photography

Revision

Independent Study in Week 7.

Teaching Method 1 - Lectures
Description: Lectures will introduce key themes, debates, concepts and perspectives. Some lectures will incorporate the analysis of photographic texts.
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Scheduled Directed Student Hours: 11

Teaching Method 2 - Workshops
Workshops will explore topics raised in the lecture, and will encourage students to engage in group discussions around weekly readings and specific images. Students will be encouraged to express and explore their own opinions and perspectives on class topics and materials.
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Scheduled Directed Student Hours: 11

Self-Directed Learning Description: Independent study should be spent reading around the weekly topics (reading lists with compulsory and suggested titles will be provided), preparing for the seminars and towards the assessment.