IHMJ3107 Introduction to Visual Methods (2–3 cr)

This course will introduce students to some of the fundamental theories, histories, methods and practices of visual methods. By considering different models and case studies related to using visual methods at different stages of the research process (data collection, interpretation, analysis, representation, performance), students will be able to explicitly reflect on the theories and practices of visual methods that will inform their own research practices.

Course readings and assignments have been designed to help students think both conceptually and concretely about how to plan their own visually informed doctoral research. In brief, drawing on case studies, “how to” materials, and writings from a variety of disciplines, this course is designed to help guide PhD students in how to think about, negotiate, and “do” methods in their research.

Completion modes: participation in lectures and pre-course and post-course assigments. In the pre-course assignment students will be asked to do specific readings and prepare a conceptual passport (identify and analyze one artist and one researcher whose philosophy, questions, and methods resonate with your own). In the course we will examine different approaches while also comparing them to conventional research approaches and so the post-course assignment will be a digital story exploring a question relevant to the student’s project. We will commence the stories during the course and students will finish them after.

readings and assignments will be assigned