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The class will be divided into groups of 2 to 3 students, primarily based on discipline and shared interests. No more than 8 groups. Each group will prepare a 20 minute presentation and discussion on some aspect of current significance to their discipline. An outline of the presentation and bibliography are submitted at conclusion.

The topic of this presentation can be a new genre, new work, new artist, new approach to the work, a current controversy in the discipline, a new venue or festival — any topic that has current significance. Normally, this will focus on sources since 1990. The purpose is to find some manifestation of the current state of the art form and help the class understand it and its implications. It should not be a topic that is general knowledge or generally understood by others in the class. The previous week, the group may distribute readings for the class if it will facilitate discussion and understanding during the presentation.

A second purpose of the group exercise is to provide groundwork for the research paper assignment. It is expected that the group research and discovery process will lead the student through sources and resources that can be used to support a more focused individual research effort.

It is expected that the group will find a way to share the work equally. Failure to support the group, when it is evident, will result is an individual grade penalty.

Presentation Dates:

2/8 - Group A, B
2/17 - Groups C, D
2/22 - Groups E, F
3/1 - Groups G, H

Literature search process

(For tips on a literature search process, see http://topcat.bridgew.edu/~adirks and select SearchMaster, scroll down.)

Basic process:

• Determine topic and list keywords
• Determine appropriate indexes and do searches
• Acquire materials

Suggestions for this project:

• Primarily, sources will be magazines, journals, and newspapers.
• Limit to publication since about 1985 or 1990
• Look for locally held materials first, then what may be acquired in full text.
• Look for what may be held at Wheaton, Stonehill, or UMD.

Websites may have good references and resources, sometimes with full text. Check above site, and also http://www.tiac.net/users/maae for a comprehensive collection of links related to arts education.

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