Major Learning Outcomes and Assessment Protocols

The Learning Outcomes of the Art and Design major are common to the international standards for art studies and relate to all of the concentrations. Graduates in Art and Design will achieve a level of proficiency with the following learning outcomes:

MALO 1: Theory and History of Art and Design

• Students successfully utilize theories & ideas regarding contemporary issues in their artwork.
• Students are able to complete historical and conceptual analysis of social or medium-specific case studies in design traditions.
• Students are knowledgeable of the historical progression of art, including the comprehension of art and design as a cultural system.

MALO 2: Effective Art and Design Practice

• Students are able to apply design fundamentals to the ethical making of art as a vehicle for self expression, as well as for professional results.
• Students are proficient in practical application of art and design skills, as well as in professional business practice of skill set.
• Students possess a thorough understanding of the principles of design as an effective and informed tool of communication.

MALO 3: Critical Thinking

• Students are able to define and analyze a problem, as well as evaluate and judge potential solutions.
• Students can develop a project and defend the outcome to an informed audience.
• Students understand the criteria for critical discussion of the arts and the relationship to the creative process.

MALO 4: Visual Literacy

• Students can demonstrate the formulation of complex visual and spatial problems as well as responsive development of innovative solutions.
• Students are able to engage in analysis and interpretation of visual culture.
• Students possess an understanding of design principles: color, line, mass, balance, symmetry, perspective, form, shape, space, volume, value, and visual  hierarchy.

MALO 5: Information Technology

• Students can demonstrate proficiency in the use of a number of software applications.
• Students display an integrated approach utilizing multiple design technologies in  their professional portfolio.
• Students understand the limitations of different software by choosing appropriate media for design projects.

Assessment Protocols

Assessment of student work in the Art and Design major is continuous from entry into the major through graduation via projects, peer and faculty critiques, project implementation and the completion of a comprehensive body of work that demonstrates technical and conceptual growth. Students are required to express themselves not only visually, but also through the written word as a means of clarifying the awareness, analysis and critical reflection of the relationship between the student’s work and contemporary art theory. Students receive continuous feedback from instructors in the process of instruction and project development and through critiques of completed projects.