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

'UWAS Currents' courses are thematic, project-based courses that examine current topics through art, design, and creative practices. Students learn to apply art or design based thinking and practices in topical social, cultural, and societal issues.

Credits: 3

Schedule: 04.03.2021 - 15.04.2021

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Tim Smith, Maria Villa Largacha

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Kiia Beilinson, Miia Laine, Maria Villa Largacha

Contact information for the course (valid 02.02.2021-21.12.2112):

Teachers in this implementation
Kiia Beilinson kiia.beilinson@aalto.fi
Miia Laine

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:

    Content varies between courses.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    This course is an introduction to decolonial thinking and practice. Students will develop a critical lens to look at norms and power structures within their own disciplines. Through discussion and reflection we will find tools to look at objectivity, methods, narratives and the production of knowledge in order to unlearn and create a more just academia.

    Learning Outcomes

    After completing the course, students will be able to

    • understand the complexity of decolonisation as an international and interdisciplinary process

    • be able to contextualise their own discipline within the sphere of decolonial thinking

    • understand the power dynamics of how knowledge is produced and distributed

    • critically apply decolonial methods within the university setting as well as in work and industry environments


Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Regular attendance required. Passing the course requires attending 80% of the lessons.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    Grading and Assessment

    The assessment of this course is pass/fail. To receive a pass and the 3 ECTS, students are expected to:

    • attend 6 sessions

    • participate actively in class

    • write a learning diary

    • produce a group project to be presented in the last session


Workload
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Content varies between courses.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    3ECT (81h)
    Participation in lectures: 21h
    Individual work (class preparation, learning diary and reflection): 40h
    Final group work: 20h



DETAILS

Study Material
  • Applies in this implementation:

    Details on course material will be uploaded on MyCourses prior to the course.

Prerequisites
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    No prerequisites

SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    16 Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

    17 Partnerships for the Goals