Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course provides students with basic knowledge of how technology is seen through the lens of philosophical and applied aesthetics. The core concepts presented during the course enable the students to contextualize and participate in contemporary discussions regarding the aesthetic dimensions of human-technology relations. Students gain access to a theoretical framework, that will enhance their critical thinking and aesthetic sensibility.

Credits: 3

Schedule: 12.01.2021 - 06.04.2021

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Sanna Lehtinen

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Sanna Lehtinen

Contact information for the course (valid 21.12.2020-21.12.2112):

Teacher: Sanna Lehtinen, PhD, sanna.lehtinen@aalto.fi

CEFR level (applies in this implementation):

Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):

Teaching language: English

Languages of study attainment: English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Course presents a selection of ideas and concepts in contemporary aesthetic thinking through a wide selection of real-life examples that combine technology, design, and art. The weekly contact teaching sessions consist of lectures, small group discussions, and planning and executing a group task.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    The course will start with an overview to the main branches of philosophical aesthetics: philosophy of art, environmental aesthetics and everyday aesthetics. The latter part of the course will focus on recent advances in philosophy and aesthetics of technology. 

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Lectures, group assignment, learning diary. 50% of the grade is based on the individual learning diary and 50% on the group assignment.

Workload
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Lectures 21 h, workshops 8 h, independent work 50h

  • Applies in this implementation:

    Synchronous Zoom meetings 21 h, workshop at the end of the course 8 h, independent work (preassigned tasks for lectures, group work) 50h

DETAILS

Study Material
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    To be announced at the beginning of the course in MyCourses.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    Course materials will be found in MyCourses at the beginning of the course. 

Substitutes for Courses
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Replaces the courses ME-E3300 / Inf-0.1300 Estetiikka.

SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    3 Good Health and Well-being

    8 Decent Work and Economic Growth

    11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

    12 Responsible Production and Consumption

FURTHER INFORMATION

Further Information
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    The course is primarily offered for the students of the Degree Programme of Information Networks. Limited acceptance for other students, based on the lecturer`s judgement.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    In 2021, the course will take place entirely online (Zoom, MyCourses). 

Details on the schedule
  • Applies in this implementation:

    First meeting is on Tue 12th January, when the further contents of the course will be established according to the existing schedule.