ARMR3D-Archaeological Graphics

Module Provider: Archaeology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: s.m.lambert-gates@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
The module provides an introduction to the skills and knowledge needed to produce publication standard illustrations consistent with current professional practice in archaeology.

Aims:
The module aims to give students an overview of the role of graphic communication in archaeology, a reasonable level of practical competence in Adobe software and an understanding of technical issues involved in producing different types of illustration. The specific areas of archaeological illustration covered in practice are: the layout of display material and the preparation of illustrations for academic publication.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will have gained:

• An ability to communicate archaeological information effectively through graphics.
• Computer graphics skills in drawing, layout and digital imaging to present archaeological research and interpretations as posters and for academic journal publication.

Additional outcomes:
Students will also gain an understanding of archaeological illustration as a profession and issues relating to publication and printing. Practical sessions will build confidence in using unfamiliar software and provide the opportunity to develop technical drawing skills. Preparing graphics for projection and the web will also be covered.

Outline content:
Lectures and workshops will give an overview of the development and range of visual communication in archaeology and of aspects of production. Alongside these will run a programme of practical hands-on drawing sessions in computer graphics, using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Practical tasks will allow students to produce maps and plans for research publication and to design an interpretive display panel/leaflet for an archaeological site.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures, workshops and practical tuition

10 practical sessions of 3 hours. Starting with an introduction in the form of an informal lecture/ discussion at the beginning each session, followed by between one and three practical exercises. Students are guided through each step, though they are free to move on more quickly if they desire. There are accompanying hand-outs for the exercises. Due to the small number of students in the class they receive 1 to 1 assistance and advice durin g the session. The session is broken up by further discussion and advice about the wider practical applications of the skills being learnt. We also look at published examples.
For week 10 no additional work is set; the students use the time available to complete the coursework and discuss any issues arising from it.

The coursework undertaken during the session is to be handed in before the following session, when feedback is given. In addition to these exercises there are 3 pr ojects that need to be handed in by the end of term.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
Portfolio comprising digital files and hardcopy prints of finished coursework (50%)
Project 1 = 20 marks
Project 2 = 10 marks
Project 3 = 10 marks
Total 40

Since Projects = 50%, calculate final mark divided by 40 x 50 = mark out of 50 instead of 40 = 50%

Formative assessment methods:
Continuous assessment of practical coursework exercises (50%)
Coursework marks out of:
Week 1 = 25
Week 2 = 10
Week 3 = 10
Week 4 = 5
Week 5 = N/A (see Project 2)
Week 6 = 10
Week 7 = 5
Week 8 = 15
Week 9 = 20
Total 100
Divide by 2 to calculate as 50%

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Resubmission of coursework by 1 September, but it cannot carry forward more than a pass mark

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 4 April 2020