TAI-E3151 - Science Fiction Matters, 23.04.2021-28.05.2021

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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

Students will establish a rigorously theorised relationship to science fiction as a major genre in contemporary artistic output and popular culture. They will learn how to think alongside and through science fiction about pertinent political, social, ecological, technological and scientific concerns. Moreover, they will be able to draw on the different variants of the science fiction genre for methodologies in their research, art projects and curatorial work.

Credits: 5

Schedule: 23.04.2021 - 28.05.2021

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Patrizia Costantin, Bassam El Baroni

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Patrizia Costantin, Bassam El Baroni

Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):

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:

    Why does science fiction matter? This course tackles this question through an attentive examination of the sub-genres, tropes, and characteristics of sci-fi in its deep entanglement with, and expression of the political unconscious of twenty and twenty-first century imaginaries. From the apocalyptic tendency running through sci-fi to more constructive visions and applications, science fiction leans on a specific relationship with technology and science proper. The course considers this relationship and expands to investigate manifestations of sci-fi from different parts of the world and in relation to various socio-philosophical discourses. As basic literacy in science becomes more important for developing competencies in the fields of art, curating, and beyond so does sci fi literacy in the latter’s functioning as the interpretive, critical, and philosophical organ for the former. The course introduces a broad range of sci-fi and sci-fi related literature and builds a strong connection between sci-fi and the expanded field of art and curating.

Assessment Methods and Criteria

  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Coursework and course participation 

  • Applies in this implementation:

    MAIN ASSIGNMENT –
    deadline 28 May

    In groups

    1) Choose a short novel, short-story,
    novel or film (related to one of the 5 macro-themes) and set up a reading/discussion group (this part of the assignment is ongoing throughout the duration
    of the course and
    is meant to help with the preparation of your final presentation.) 

    2) Presentation on May 28th.  In groups, present an analysis/review
    (this can also be realized
    in any medium, or combination of media, as you see fit) of the
    short-story/book/movie you chose for the reading/discussion group. Each group
    will prepare a 20-minutes presentation followed by Q&A.  

    --------------------------------------------

    WEEKLY TASK

    students  to bring examples of the
    topics discussed in the session (texts, artworks, exhibitions, film
    extracts,...). THESE WILL FORM THE BASIS FOR OUR WEEKLY DISCUSSION ON THE
    MACRO-THEME

    Populate are.na beforehand.

    https://www.are.na/science-fiction-matters 



Workload

  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    55 hours of contact teaching, 80 hours of individual work. Requirement of all schedules activities a minimum of 80%.

DETAILS

Study Material

  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Sci-Fi Readings and Theory Readings

Prerequisites

  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    none

SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    4 Quality Education

    5 Gender Equality

    9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

    10 Reduced Inequality

    13 Climate Action

    15 Life on Land

    16 Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

    17 Partnerships for the Goals

Rules of Conduct - Students´ Rights and Responsibilities (in force from 1 August 2020)

Aalto University Code of Academic Integrity and Handling Violations Thereof