VAFA107 Introduction to Jewelry and Metalsmithing

Department of The Arts: Jewelry

  1. Course Number and Title

    VAFA107 Introduction to Jewelry and Metalsmithing

  2. Number of Credits

    3 credits

  3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

    4050

  4. Prerequisites

    None

    Corequisites

    None

  5. Other Pertinent Information

    Safe shop practices are emphasized. Students work five hours outside of class each week in the studio area under the supervision of a lab assistant or at home.

  6. Catalog Course Description

    Students are introduced to the basic techniques necessary for the design and fabrication of jewelry and small three-dimensional metal forms. This course is the foundation for further exploration into jewelry design and metalsmithing as a vehicle for self-expression.

  7. Required Course Content and Direction

    1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course Learning Goals

        2. Students will

        1. apply basic jewelry fabrication techniques to complete projects;
        2. create design sketches of the objects they plan to fabricate;
        3. acquire a knowledge of materials for making jewelry, as well as small functional and non-traditional objects; and
        4. analyze projects through critiques, oral presentations, and discussions.

      2. Core Learning Goals(if applicable)


        3. This course is not included in the Core.

    2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      1. how to translate ideas into finished works
      2. jewelry making techniques
        1. piercing
        2. soldering
        3. surface texturing
        4. polishing
        5. stone setting
        6. forming
      3. introduce and apply appropriate vocabulary for evaluation and criticism
      4. demonstrate safe shop practices

    3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals

        1. Course learning goals are assessed with group critiques of all projects, based on the successful design, execution, and completion of assigned projects.
        2. At least two individual critiques with instructor are held each semester, to assess projects using the above criteria and to review student’s overall progress.
        3. Instructor evaluation of tool and shop safety practices through observation and quizzes.

      2. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals (if applicable)


        3. This course is not included in the Core.

    4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      See course format. Slides, video, and digital technology by instructor are incorporated.

  8. Teaching Methods Employed

    Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

Review/Approval Date - 12/04; Revised 6/09; Revised 4/2012