The module begins by considering the historical impact of colonialism and capitalism on local cultures. It explores how culture has been used to influence, dominate and control populations and then to consider how collective cultural action has been used by artists and communities as a means of seeking political and cultural self-determination. The final section examines the legacy and impact of the internationalisation of community arts through immigration and cultural exchange and considers the effects of its world -wide adoption by governments and non-governmental organisations as a universal tool for community development.

The module gives a contextual understanding of community arts in a global context. It aims to give a overview of the impact of collective cultural action in a range of international settings. Students will study the impact of colonialism, conflict and globalisation on local cultures throughout the world. They will have the opportunity to research a range of case studies in differing cultural and political contexts and to consider the effectiveness of community arts as a strategy for community development in a variety of international and cultural contexts.

Internet, where you find relevant websites and on-line journals and documents.
The Library for relevant textbooks, journals and audiovisual materials.
Blackboard will be available to provide learning support.

Adams, D and Goldbard, A. (2001) Community, Culture and Globalisation. New York. Rockefeller.
Barndt, D (2006) Wild Fire: Arts As Activism. York. Sumach
Boal, A. (2000) Theatre of the Oppressed. London. Pluto
Clements.N. (2004) Creative Collaboration. Ceredigion: Sound of the Heart

The module incorporates three inter-related learning strategies.
Attendance in Class: The three daylong workshops consisting of lectures, visiting speakers, class discussion and group-work will provide the basis for learning throughout the module.
Individual research: Students will be required to research a mini case-study and to give an assessed class presentation which demonstrates their theoretical their critical understanding of the key themes in the module.
Independent study will allow reading around selected topics and the development of an individual critical response to the key themes through the module in preparation for the written assignment.

A class presentation weighted at 30%
The presentation will require you to demonstrate your research of an international community arts case study and your ability to place it within the theoretical framework. (Learning outcomes 1 and 3)

An Essay of 1500 words weighted at 70%. The essay will require you to demonstrate an understanding of the role of community arts can play in enabling community empowerment and community development in a range of international and cultural contexts.(Learning outcomes 2 and 4)