Common Course Outline

Course discipline/number/title ART 1164: Ceramics I

Catalog Description

Credits 3
Hours/Week 5 (1 lecture, 4 lab)
Prerequisites (Course discipline/number) None
Other requirements None
MnTC Goals (if any) Goal 6/Humanities, the Arts, Literature and Philosophy

Course Description

This studio art course covers the basics of both hand building and wheel throwing forming methods as a means of expression in the visual arts. The ceramic process will be used to explore basic problems of form in three dimensions using traditional and contemporary methods. Students will engage in the creative process. An informed personal reaction and critical response to work will be emphasized.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

February, 2026

Outline of Major Content Areas

  1. Hand building: pinch, coil, slab
  2. Wheel throwing: forms, additions, turning feet, altering
  3. Studio practice, studio safety, studio equipment training
  4. Ceramic surface: slip, glazes, glazing methods
  5. Ceramic art history and contemporary context
  6. Presentation and critical response

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

  1. Learn fundamental clay forming methods and safe studio practice.
  2. Incorporate 3D design principles in their work.
  3. Creatively solve design problems while demonstrating an awareness of historical and cultural precedents.
  4. Critically evaluate work throughout the creative process.
  5. Articulate an informed personal reaction during group critiques and through writing on art.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

Goal 6/Humanities, the Arts, Literature and Philosophy

The student will be able to:

  1. Respond critically to works in the arts and humanities.
  2. Engage in the creative process or interpretive performance.
  3. Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Critical Thinking
Students will think systematically and explore information thoroughly before accepting or formulating a position or conclusion.

Special Information (if any)

None