Postcolonial & Decolonial Matters

The objective of this course was to introduce students from all semesters and disciplines to the central discussions and key concepts developing in postcolonial and decolonial critiques. A different author was studied every week, bringing together a multiplicity of voices that examine how contemporary conditions, relationships and concepts of knowledge are still determined by colonial legacies. These various positions were examined in their own right, as well as in their relationship to artistic and cultural spheres, allowing us to explore and evaluate their relevance, connections and impact on our artistic and design practices. A complete schedule including authors and texts, can be found below.
A “flipped classroom” methodology guided the work, pushing the students to assume a major responsibility in their own learning, with the lead taking the role of a supporting facilitator. No prior engagement with the topics was required. Beyond acquiring knowledge on the central discussions, questions and authors in postcolonial and decolonial theory, the students also developed analytical, critical and presentation skills.
The seminars were clearly structured (1/3 presentation, 1/3 work in small groups, 1/3 plenum) to provide a framework guiding their engagement. Students presented and lead the discussions with prepared questions and were also required to take notes, and actively participate in the debates.
A command of English was necessary, as the texts were read in English. Depending on students’ language preferences, specific translations were accommodated.
All sessions were conducted in a hybrid format, with one student assuming the linking role to the digital participants. Each time, anyone could either join remotely or in person and in this way, the group differed in composition from session to session.

Schedule

Department

Theory and History

Time Period

Summer term 2022

Format

Reading Seminar

Location

hybrid

Lead

Juana Awad

Students

Ananda Araujo Lima Costa, Henam Shin, Phina Hansen, Natascha Zander, Eva Dobler, Josua Josua, Min Joo Kim, Bruno Giannori, Thais Rib, Johanna Hemming, Dalma Stift, Mohamad Halbouni, Maïa Kleinknecht, Helia Jafarzadeh, Langjie Jian

Contributors

Verena Melgarejo Weinandt (Gastvortrag)

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  • Text

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