Outcome Statements for Art History Majors

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Students who graduate from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Art History will:

Practice precise and thorough observation:

-Perceive and organize visual information
-Assess the appearance of specific objects and monuments strategically
-Analyze the meaning(s) of an objects appearance, materials and techniques

Write and speak effectively about art and architecture:

-Organize complex information into a coherent argument
-Choose clear and appropriate language
-Communicate orally so as to instruct peers

Acquire knowledge of key monuments, artists and art movements in the history of art.

Evaluate physical, visual and textual sources of information:

-Assess the strengths and weaknesses of different categories of material evidence
-Assess the point of view or perspective of primary and secondary sources

Interpret art and architecture as expressions of cultural and historical circumstances:

-Integrate factual information about specific cultures into broader concepts
-Assess the role of an individual artist in relation to his/her context
-Compare circumstances and processes of making art across cultures

Conduct research using art historical methods and materials:

-Formulate research projects with topics and strategies of suitable scope and scale
-Pursue academic inquiry using primary and secondary sources in print and electronic media
-Understand multiple theoretical models and methods of art historical interpretation

Recognize personal and cultural biases affecting the presentation and reception of art historical information:

-Incorporate awareness of the history of the discipline into explanations
-Understand classification and categories as intentional components of interpretation
-Address her/his particular attitudes and experiences that may affect her/his approach

Articulate key ethical issues in art history, and their relation to professional behavior.

-Be cognizant of professional principles for acquiring art
-Recognize the complexity of authenticity, especially regarding restoration
-Address the commodification of culture as it relates to works of art of many periods.