COURSE OR HONOURS SUBJECT TITLE: BA(Hons) Textiles Art, Design and Fashion (with CertHE/AB exit awards)

UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION COURSE OR HONOURS SUBJECT TITLE: BA(Hons) Textiles Art, Design and Fashion (with CertHE/AB exit awards) 1 AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster 2 TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster 3 LOCATION: Belfast 4 ACCREDITED BY: N/A 5 FINAL AWARD: BA (Hons) Textiles Art, Design and Fashion with optional DPP/DIAS Cert HE/AB degree 6 MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time and Part-time 7 SPECIALISMS: None 8 COURSE/UCAS CODE: 9 DATE REVISED: Effective from 2012-2013 10 EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE COURSE The aim of the course is to produce skilled, confident, adaptable graduates who are able to forge careers as artists, designers and makers in Textiles and Fashion and related creative industries. The course aims to: Encourage a critical understanding of art and design and specifically textiles and fashion, from a broad based awareness of the discipline to a more individual perspective, which is informed by current research, commercial activity and emerging practices in textiles and related areas. Provide an intellectually stimulating environment where students can develop critical, practical and professional skills to become a designer, maker or artist in textiles and fashion. Support the development of a highly resolved body of work that demonstrates a clear understanding of contemporary textile and fashion practice. Promote and encourage investigative, analytical and reflective practice by encouraging an innovative and individual approach to the development and realisation of textile and fashion work based on practical experience and understanding of the practices and production processes of the discipline. Create an atmosphere where independent enquiry, risk taking, good judgement, critical awareness and decision making is encouraged and supported within a framework of aesthetic, artistic, social and ethical values and within a culture of change. Ensure students are able to contextualise their work with reference to contemporary theoretical, historical and cultural models. Offer the opportunity to work collaboratively, on live projects, industry generated initiatives and competitions, in order to gain essential work based learning 6

experience and develop the transferable skills essential to succeed in the creative and cultural industries. In addition, for students on the Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) / (DPP) International programme: To enhance an understanding of Professional Practice To develop personal and professional skills In addition, for students on the Diploma in International Academic Studies (DIAS) programme: To enhance an understanding of another cultural educational environment To develop self-reliance and independence. 11 MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES The following reference points were used to inform the development of the programme and its learning outcomes: The University s Vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies Current research or other advanced scholarship carried out by academic staff; Subject benchmark statement, QAA Subject benchmark statement for Art and Design 2008 National and University qualifications and credit frameworks; The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 2008 The course provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. 11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT The outcomes of the Diploma in Foundation studies in Art and Design are to: K1 K2 Apply knowledge and skills effectively in the use of different media, materials and processes within their chosen area of art, craft and design. Apply knowledge and understanding of art and design practice and theory to make an informed choice for further study. The outcomes of the level 4 Cert HE Award are to: K1 K2 Demonstrate commitment to a self directed practice which is informed by an awareness and understanding of relevant concepts and principles associated with textiles and fashion. Source, select, evaluate and make use of information from a variety of sources in order to develop a rigorous approach to the acquisition of knowledge. The additional outcomes of the AB Award are to: K3 Investigate and evaluate the potential for textiles and fashion within artistic, commercial and interdisciplinary frameworks. 7

K4 Consider, critique and analyse the professional artist/designer/maker relationship with audiences, participants, clients, markets, industry and consumers. The additional outcomes of the degree are to: K5 K6 Demonstrate and apply a comprehensive practical and theoretical understanding of the relationship between the aesthetic and utilitarian (form and function) Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of an independently negotiated historical, theoretical or contextual subject in the form of a market report or dissertation. Teaching and Learning Methods: Knowledge and understanding of textiles and fashion are developed through a combination of practical workshop and studio experience supported by a thorough grounding in history, theory and research. Direct experience will be gained during demonstrations, workshops, studio practice, live projects, exhibition visits and field trips which encourage peer and group learning. Individual and group tutorials, studio critiques, lectures and seminars will promote a secure understanding of the relationship between theory and practice and provide essential dialogue between students and staff. Opportunities for self evaluation will promote deep learning and encourage a sound knowledge of the teaching, learning and assessment process. Assessment Methods: 100% coursework The assessment of knowledge and understanding of textiles and fashion is through a variety of coursework including a range of art and design outputs, exhibited and documented, practical and contextual research, written commentaries, reports, presentations, essays and dissertations. Diagnostic, formative and summative feedback is central to teaching, learning and assessment of knowledge and understanding. Summative feedback presented in written and verbal forms encourages reflection and offers suggestions for future work. 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES The outcomes of the Diploma in Foundation studies in Art and Design are to: I1 I2 Accept responsibility for their active involvement in their learning and the quality of their practice / outputs. Analyse and evaluate visual practice and contextual information and make reasoned judgments. The outcomes of the Cert HE Award are to: I1 Identify and articulate personal strengths and weaknesses and demonstrate an ability to take responsibility for a developing practice. 8

I2 Demonstrate independent judgement and the ability to analyse, reflect and evaluate information and experience from a range of sources. The additional outcomes of the level 5 AB Award are to: I3 Be able to formulate a range of questions pertinent to practice and articulate reasoned responses to the critical judgements of others. The additional outcomes of the degree are to: I4 I5 Be able to employ convergent and divergent thinking in the processes of observation, investigation, speculative enquiry, visualisation and making. Demonstrate the ability to anticipate and accommodate change, and work within the contexts of ambiguity, uncertainty and unfamiliarity. Teaching and Learning Methods: Intellectual qualities are developed through studio and workshop practice and historical and theoretical study by means of making, discussing and writing about the practice and theory of textiles and fashion. Lectures, seminars, workshops and individual and group tutorials based around recommended reading and direct experience will offer a variety of settings and styles in which students can develop ideas and gain the confidence to articulate them to their peers and teaching staff. Assessment Methods: 100% Coursework Assessment of intellectual qualities is through a variety of forms of coursework including artworks, exhibited and documented, practical and contextual research, written critical commentaries, presentations, essays and dissertation. Diagnostic, formative and summative feedback, central to teaching, learning and assessment of intellectual qualities offering essential guidance throughout the course. Summative feedback, presented after assessment in written and verbal forms encourages a student to reflect on progress and achievement and receive suggestions for future direction. 11P PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS The outcomes of the Diploma in Foundation studies in Art and Design are to: P1 P2 Compile, collate and present visual and written material in an appropriate manner. Use appropriate workshop equipment and practices in a competent and safe manner. The outcomes of the CertHE Award are to: P1 Employ diverse materials, media, techniques, methods, technologies and tools associated with textiles and fashion and to demonstrate skill, imagination and independence along with good working practices. P2 Generate ideas, proposals and practical solutions in response to set projects and self initiated activity. 9

The additional outcomes of the AB Award are to: P3 P4 Apply resourcefulness and entrepreneurial skills to support own practice and/or the practice of others for example through collaboration, group work and placements. Present professional documentation of art and design work in visual, written and other forms, demonstrating critical judgement, aesthetic and practical skills. The additional outcomes of the degree are to: P5 P6 Manage and make appropriate use of the interaction between ideas, process, outcome, context and the methods of dissemination. Develop ideas through to resolved material outcomes, e.g. images, artefacts, products, designs or text and employ critical judgement to select the appropriate method of dissemination and/or exhibition. Teaching and Learning Methods: Professional and Practical skills are developed primarily through studio and workshop practice, exhibitions, presentations and real experience. Individual and team based project work are essential to the acquisition of skills required for success on the course and beyond. A comprehensive range of traditional and innovative textile and fashion demonstrations, workshops and master classes are core to delivery as are workshops and lectures supporting placement, live projects (including exhibition, commission, proposal writing, competitions). Lectures from and about artists, designers and makers along with regular exhibition and gallery visits further illuminate the subject and personal creative language is developed and supported by staff and peers in regular seminars and tutorials. Assessment Methods: 100% Coursework Assessment of Professional and Practical skills is through a variety of forms of coursework including artworks, exhibited and documented, practical and contextual research, written commentaries, reflective writing, statements, presentations, placement reports, professional portfolios. Diagnostic, formative and summative feedback, central to teaching, learning and assessment of professional and practical skills offers essential guidance throughout the course. Summative feedback, in written and verbal forms encourages a student to reflect on progress and achievement and receive suggestions for future direction. 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS The outcomes of the Diploma in Foundation studies in Art and Design are to: T1 T2 T3 Present ideas and information in appropriate visual, written and oral formats. Select and use appropriate Information Technology and apply it to their learning. Manage and plan their time and learning effectively for personal development. The outcomes of the CertHE Award are to: T1 Organise workloads and resources in order to manage time effectively. 10

T2 Select and use appropriate IT and/or other technologies for research, communication, documentation and creative production. T3 Structure and communicate ideas and information in visual, written and oral forms and in a range of contexts. The additional outcomes of the AB award are to: T4 Work constructively with others in a range of contexts and situations The additional outcomes of the degree are to: T5 Work and think independently, demonstrating creativity, initiative, problem solving and decision making in a range of situations Teaching and Learning Methods: Transferable skills are developed through engagement with all elements of the course, studio and workshop practice, history and theory and professional practice. These transferable skills are fundamental to undertaking coursework and to future success in textiles and fashion and the creative industries Assessment Methods: Assessment is on course work and the demonstration of transferable skills through the completion of art and design work, practical and contextual research, written commentaries, portfolios, presentations, professional practice projects, reports, essays and dissertation The level of achievement in relation to the learning outcomes for a module is assessed using the grade descriptors for that level Please refer to Programme Learning Outcome Map overleaf. 11

11 PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP FOR LEVEL 3 Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme. MODULE TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 I1 I2 P1 P2 T1 T2 T3 Drawing Connections Exploring Workshop Practices Contextual Research and Understanding Introducing Studio Practices 3 X X X X 3 X X X X X X X 3 X X X X X X 3 X X X X X PLEASE NOTE: The matrix displays only the main measurable outcomes. There may be other outcomes detailed in the module descriptors (eg attitudes and behaviours), which are not assessed. 12

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP FOR TEXTILE ART, DESIGN AND FASHION (LEVELS 4-6) Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme. OUTCOMES MODULE TITLES LEVEL CODE K 1 K 2 K 3 K 4 K 5 K 6 Cultural Contexts 4 X X X x x x x I 1 I 2 I 3 I 4 I 5 P 1 P 2 P 3 P 4 P 5 P 6 T 1 T 2 T 3 T 4 T 5 Studio Practice 1 Fundamental Skills Research and Writing 1: Methods and Approaches Studio Practice 2 Fundamental Skills Professional Practice 1:Work Based Learning Studio Practice 3 Surface and Construct 1 Research and Writing 2:Critical Frameworks Studio Practice 4 Surface and Construct 2 Research and Writing 3:The Dissertation/ Market Report Studio Practice 5 Consolidation Professional Practice 2 Graduate Skills Studio Practice 6 Resolution 4 X X X x x x 4 X X X x x x 4 X X X x x x 5 X X X x x x 5 X X x x x x 5 X X X X x x 5 X X x x x 6 X X X X X X x x x 6 X X X x x x x x 6 X X x x x x 6 X X X x x x x x x 13

12 STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD Full Time Mode In a broad based first year (level 4) students experience a wealth of practice in the area of textiles and fashion, gaining fundamental practical skills, knowledge of the key cultural contexts and an understanding of textiles as a flexible and diverse subject. In each semester of level 4 there is a studio practice module of 40 credits and a writing and research module of 20 credits. Upon successful completion of Year 1 (120 credits) Level 4 a student has the option of leaving with a Certificate of Higher Education Practice. The second year (level 5) provides the opportunity to investigate two dimensional and three dimensional approaches to the skills and knowledge acquired in level 4. Professional practice and entrepreneurship are fundamental to level 5. Participation in live projects, short placements, competitions, exhibitions and residencies are encouraged. In each semester of level 5 there is a studio practice module of 40 credits and a 20 credit Professional Practice module in semester 1 and Writing and Research in semester 2 Upon successful completion of Year 2 (240 Credits) Level 5 a student may exit with an Associate Bachelor Degree. There is an optional placement year between level 5 and 6 with (DPP/DPPI) and (DIAS) Awards available. By year three (level 6), students will be equipped with the necessary range of skills and a sense of ambition to identify their individual pathway. The choice to consolidate study as an artist, designer or maker, will be supported by specialist academic and technical staff. Each student will create and exhibit a body of work which demonstrates the pathway chosen and their understanding of the critical and professional context of that choice. In each semester of level 6 there is a 40 credit studio practice module and a 20 credit Dissertation /Marketing Report module in semester 1 and Graduate Skills module in semester 2 The course lasts three years full time and all modules are compulsory. Part Time Mode A part time route through the course is offered for levels 4, 5 and 6. Each level requires two years of part time study. In each year the student completes 60 credits: one 40 credit module which runs throughout the year and the co-requisite 20 credits of Writing and Research and Professional Practice modules taken within the semester along with the full time students. This fosters peer learning and course inclusion. The part time course lasts six years and all modules are compulsory. The language of instruction is English 14

Full Time Structure Level 3 Module Title: Credit Level: Credit Points: Module Status Awards: Drawing Connections Exploring Workshop Practices Contextual Research and Understanding Introducing Studio Practices 3 3 3 3 20 40 20 40 compulsory compulsory compulsory compulsory Exit Award: Diploma Level 4 Module Title Credit Credit Module Awards Level Points Status Cultural Contexts 4 20 compulsory Studio Practice1: Fundamental 4 40 compulsory Skills Research and Writing 1: 4 20 compulsory Approaches & Methods Studio Practice 2: Fundamental Skills 4 40 compulsory Exit Award Cert HE 120 Credits Level 5 Professional Practice 1: Work Based Learning Studio Practice 3:Surface and Construct 1 Research and Writing 2: Critical Frameworks Studio Practice 4: Surface and Construct 2 5 20 compulsory 5 40 compulsory 5 20 compulsory 5 40 compulsory Exit Award AB Degree 240 Credits There is an optional placement year between level 5 and 6 with (DPP/DPPI)and (DIAS) Awards available. Level 6 Research and Writing 3: The Dissertation/Market Report Studio Practice 5 Consolidation Professional Practice 2 Graduate Skills Studio Practice 6 Resolution 6 20 compulsory 6 40 compulsory 6 20 compulsory 6 40 compulsory BA Hons TA, D and F 15

Part Time Structure: Level 4 Year 1 Module Title Credit Credit Module Level Points Status Cultural Contexts 4 20 compulsory Awards Studio Practice 1: Fundamental Skills Level 4 Year 2 Research and Writing 1: Approaches & Methods Studio Practice 2: Fundamental Skills Level 5 year 3 Professional Practice 1: Work Based Learning Studio Practice 3: Surface and Construct 1 Level 5 year 4 Research and Writing 2: Critical Frameworks Studio Practice 4: Surface and Construct 2 4 40 compulsory 4 20 compulsory 4 40 compulsory Exit Award Cert HE 120 Credits 5 20 compulsory 5 40 compulsory 5 20 compulsory 5 40 compulsory Exit Award AB Degree 240 Credits Level 6 Year 5 Research and Writing 3: The 6 20 compulsory Dissertation/ Market Report Studio Practice 5: Consolidation 6 40 compulsory Level 6 Year 6 Professional Practice 2: 6 20 compulsory Graduate Skills Studio Practice 6: Resolution 6 40 compulsory BA Hons TA,D & F 16

13 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING Students and their learning are supported in a number of ways: INDUCTION PROCESS: Provision of a comprehensive induction programme for all entrants where they will be introduced to Student Handbooks, Module Handbooks and other key information. Library induction programme relevant to the subject will also be organised. Workshop inductions are also programmed. Guidance on Health and Safety Matters. TRANSITION: Attendance monitoring is an integral part of first year provision to support student learning. COURSE DIRECTOR: Convenient access to the Course Director and Module Coordinators through formal and informal communications, via e-mail and planned meetings. STAFF/STUDENT CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE: Staff/Student consultation meetings are held at least once per semester; additional meetings can be arranged if requested by student representatives (campus-based courses only). Students are the majority members of this committee and it reports to the Course Committee. WORKSHOPS: Access to specialist resource areas/workshops and technical support. MODULE REVIEWS AND FORMATIVE FEEDBACK: To communicate student progress and progression on the programme of study. ADVISORS OF STUDIES: The use of personal Studies Advisors. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING: Access to the Personal Development System to manage personal development planning. CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE: Provides help with placement opportunities, career planning and post graduation career support. INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT: Training in use of IT facilities through the Information Services Department. CPD modules. STUDENT SUPPORT: Access to the Student Support Department, providing services related to counselling/mental health, childcare, disability, health and finance. STUDENT SERVICES: One Stop Shop for registry, examinations and finance. 17

SPORT AND RECREATION: Access to a range of activities through the Sport and Recreation Department. INTERNATIONAL OFFICE: Where required, access to the services of the International Office. STUDENTS UNION: Access to the Student s Union. CHAPLAINCY: Easy access to the Chaplaincy facilities. University Web Portal providing general information on the university, the programme and its modules and study skills packages. 14 CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION Applicants must satisfy the University s general entry requirements as set out in the prospectus or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL). The initial offer standard may vary from year to year. See prospectus entry. Specific requirements for admission are detailed below. Achieve a minimum of 240 UCAS tariff points to include grades CC (one of which should be in an art & design related subject). Submit a good portfolio of work that demonstrates a student s ability, suitability and enthusiasm for the course. Acceptance on to the course depends upon portfolio submission and interview. 15 EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING The following are used for evaluating and improving teaching and learning quality: External benchmark standards: continuous evaluation and improvement to ensure that the standard set by QAA subject benchmark statement for Art and Design QAA 238 03/08 is met. The Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) provides a range of statistical outputs over several years including HEFCE performance indicators informs quality management. Views of graduates in the National Student Survey/ Post Graduate Taught Experience Views of external examiners through the reporting mechanisms are discussed at Course, School, Faculty and University level. 18

Programme Management System. Focuses the review at course committee level. Progression, attrition and module performance statistics provided by the QMAU to Course Directors and Head of School to inform review policies. The University student survey on the quality of teaching: Formal student feedback is sought on the content and delivery of each module via an on line evaluation questionnaire. Course Committees review and report to the School Board which meets regularly to review matters relating to the management, delivery and quality of all taught courses in the School. Views of students as expressed through Staff/Student consultation: Students are given the opportunity to be represented on the Course committee and at Faculty Board. Student Staff consultative meetings provide the means of highlighting good practice, any teaching and learning issues, difficulties relating to the course experienced by the cohort. It also provides a conduit for student ideas to enhance the programme of study. Views of employers: feedback from Advisory panel. In addition there are University/Faculty/ School strategies for teaching and learning. 16 REGULATION OF STANDARDS General course regulations are in accordance with the current University of Ulster Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations, are described in full in section B3. Assessment rules The pass mark for the programme, modules and individual assessments shall be 40% The pass mark for the award Diploma in Professional Practice/Diploma in International Academic Studies is 50% The Classification of Final Results BA (Hons)/BDes Only Level 6 modules contribute to the Honours classification. Each module is weighted in proportion to its credit points. The following percentages are used as a basis for determining the candidates overall classification: Class I at least 70% ClassII (division I) at least 60% and less than 70% ClassII (division II) at least 50% and less than 60% Class III at least 40% and less than 50% Award of Diploma in Professional Practice/Diploma in International Academic Studies 19

The following are the minimum percentages used in determining the overall award. Pass with commendation at least 70% Pass at least 50% and less than 70% Exit Awards Associate Bachelor: Successful completion of 240 credits at Level 4 and Level 5. Pass with Distinction 70% Pass With Commendation 60% Pass 40% Certificate in Higher Education: Successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4. Pass with Distinction 70% Pass With Commendation 60% Pass 40% External examiners External examiners are academic subject or professional experts appointed from outside the University. Their key functions are to contribute to the assurance of the standards of awards and to ensure that students are treated fairly in the assessment process. The University appoints at least one external examiner for each award-bearing course or undergraduate Honours subject. They are involved in the approval and moderation of examination papers and other forms of assessment, and in the moderation of student work and it's marking by internal examiners. They attend boards of examiners which finalise students' results and, where applicable, make recommendations for awards. The University also expects course/subject committees to consult the external examiner when proposing changes to the content, structure or regulations for a course or subject strand during its period of approval. External examiners provide an annual report to the University. This considers standards in relation to assessment, student performance, comparability with other programmes at the same level elsewhere, and other comments as appropriate. Reports are considered as part of the University's annual monitoring process. A written response to the report is sent to the external examiner within three months of receipt. 20

17 INDICATORS OF QUALITY RELATING TO TEACHING AND LEARNING Outcomes of the QAA Institutional Audit 2010 The audit team concluded that the Institutional approach to quality enhancement was effective and supported through the creation of an environment in which teaching is developed and rewarded, and good practice is routinely captured and disseminated. As a result of its investigations, the audit team's view of the University of Ulster is that: 1. Confidence can reasonably be placed in the soundness of the institution's present and likely future management of the academic standards of the awards it offers 2. Confidence can reasonably be placed in the soundness of the institution's present and likely future management of the quality of the learning opportunities available to students. Outcomes of the Research Assessment Exercise 2010 The strong rating of the Art and Design Research at Ulster in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2008) when it achieved 10th place in the Research Fortnight UK power ranking for the subject, consolidated the '5' grade in the Research Assessment Exercise in 2001. With 75% of its research considered in RAE 2008 to be of international significance, Art and Design has a strong research base for future developments. Of particular note are the 2008 recognition of the quality of its research environment and the 100% achieved for peer esteem. 6 staff returned under the RAE 2008 (Soden, Fleming, Belford, Bruce, Wells, Dass) covering practice based, theoretical and cross-disciplinary design specialisms. Submitted work was considered as significant in the international and national arena. Research has been disseminated via practice based exhibition and text based methods. 3 staff have secured external research council AHRC to research trust funding (Wellcome, Leverhulme) 2 staff have filed patent applications related to research and 1 staff has commercialised research into a full spin out company. New members of staff and early career researchers are building their profiles for potential submission in 2013. Scholarship in Teaching and Learning 40% of teaching staff are members of the Higher Education Academy A member of staff is a member of HEA and is NI representative ADM-HEA Most staff hold the award or are currently enrolled on PGCHEP External/internal funding for teaching and learning initiative Internal (Bruce and Conwell) received Faculty Teaching Fellowship Awards in 2009, both projects focused on the year 1 experience and interdisciplinarity. 21