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Beginner
Higher Education
en
Art, Craft, Science
MIT OpenCourseWare
Platform
· Cambridge, USA
About this course
This course examines how people learn, practice, and evaluate traditional and contemporary craft techniques. Social science theories of design, embodiment, apprenticeship learning, skill, labor, expertise, and tacit knowledge are used to explore distinctions among art, craft, and science. It also discusses the commoditization of craft into market goods, collectible art, and tourism industries. Ethnographic and historical case studies include textiles, Shaker furniture, glassblowing, quilting, cheesemaking, industrial design, home and professional cooking, factory and laboratory work, and CAD/CAM. Demonstrations, optional field trips, and/or hands-on craft projects may be included.
Prerequisite Skills
Skills you should have before taking this course
English language proficiency
basic social science concepts
academic reading
Skills Gained
Skills you will develop by completing this course
Critical Thinking
cultural anthropology
ethnographic research
history of craft and design
social theory of art and science
qualitative analysis
visual analysis of material culture
academic reading and writing