Hi there List
I realise that this topic has closed, but I promised Beryl that I would
briefly outline my recent trip to MECAD, Barcelona
(http://www.mecad.org/).
Compared to the UK system MECAD is quite unique (non-UK list members
might like to advise me on this) in that it is heavily funded by local
Industry. Amongst a very interesting range of programmes (graduate and
postgraduate) they host 2 very interesting Masters programmes.
- Creation and Design for Interactive Systems
- Curatorial and Cultural Practices in Art and New Media
Although it is the latter that interests us here - it is interesting to
note that the two programmes sit together. Entry to the MA is slightly
different to the UK model - holders of a Higher degree (4 years) can
enter the MA programme directly otherwise applicants must take the
Postgraduate level first (this makes for a 2 year study programme).
All the programmes are delivered in Spanish and English.
In terms of academic structure the programme appears to be modular -
i.e. that there are a number of subject streams with lectures
associated with them, but these run throughout the year and have a
large number of visiting lecturers associated with them. It was
particularly interesting to note that the only apparent assessment was
a final project (and attendance to the sessions). This allows a great
deal of flexibility when compared to the constrains that I have to
operate the MA Multimedia Arts within - i.e. a 12 week cyclic emphasis
on assessment broken into a small number of modules, which at times I
worry encourages a disjointed rather than holistic approach to
learning. Final projects for the Curatorial programme fall into a
number of types e.g. - the group production of an existing Curatorial
Project, a critical body of work or the critical proposal of a
Curatorial Project.
One of the most exciting features of MECAD is the number of external
links and partnerships that tie the programmes to the International
community. It was very clear from the visit that the director, Claudia
Giannetti, is of an extremely open and collaborative disposition.
MECAD is looking to continue to develop links to Academic and Cultural
Institutions.
I hope that this has been helpful - I have just checked out their URL
and there is a great deal of information there.
Regards
Steve
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