Course Objectives

Students will:

• Demonstrate the ability to choose topics and work with ideas and problems using different methods and approaches.
• Demonstrate the ability to develop skills through working on a chosen theme.
• Reflect on, and make decisions with respect to the social aspects of the choice of topic, such as the consequences of resource use for the environment.
• Evaluate, select and use materials on the basis of the knowledge of their properties and applications, and cultivate the ability to make aesthetic evaluations through art-orientation and working with different impressions, experiences and reflections.
• Acquire knowledge of fundamental topics in the theory of science and research methodology.
• Acquire knowledge of the theoretical foundation of practical-creative work.
• Become familiar with Telemark University College’s guidelines for the use of sources and references (the Harvard System).
• Apply the guidelines in written work.
• Evaluate a product based on structured and targeted analysis.

Course Description

Independent Project 1 is a course in which the student should aim at professional development or examine a practical and creative approach in a selected area of study. He/she will conclude the course with an exhibition and a written report. The student can choose to work on topics 1, 2 or 3, and examine these more closely on the basis of previous work. Theoretical topics will be related to the chosen area of study, and the student will demonstrate his/her degree of reflection in relation to his/her production and understanding of subject-theory in written and visual form. It is a requirement that the student receives guidance on the project; the student should contact the teacher to plan the guidance.

The theory of science comprises 2.5 ECTS in this course.

The course includes basic theory of science, and qualitative and quantitative methodology.

Learning Methods

The course is characterised by an interaction between theory and practical work in materials. The student will develop his/her ability to explain professional practices. The course includes lectures, demonstrations, seminars, study groups, project work and visual presentations. It also includes attendance at exhibitions and other cultural activities.

A considerable part of the course requires obligatory attendance; information is given in the year-plan/semester plan/period plans.

Students will be responsible for their own learning. This means that each student must keep themselves updated with respect to the syllabus literature and seek professional guidance. The acquisition of knowledge will, to a large degree, depend upon supervision of the learning processes and learning through action. Attendance and participation in an active, creative workshop environment is a fundamental and vital condition for gaining maximum benefit from the course.

Assessment Methods

Students will submit their portfolio assignment before the deadline, which will include products, presentations of products, process description and reflection on practical training. The course will be given a letter grade from A to F, where A is the highest grade, and E the lowest passing grade.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean