PART ONE: WHY STUDY DRESS?

During this section of the class, students are introduced to the process and philosophy associated with the study and research of dress. History and past research builds a foundation for student exploration of concepts associated with the other sections of the course. Students are given the opportunity to choose a trade book connect the course experience to their specific field of study, career goals, and personal interests. The first assessment students complete is a field experience ("People Watching") observing what individuals are wearing in different locations. The data collected is shared with the class to introduce the importance of avoiding bias when describing the dress practices of individuals from around the world. Base on their field observations and interests, students choose a dress practice, object, or ensemble to research for the semester. The process of researching dress is initiated by students completing an annotated bibliography. This learning experience challenges students to identify useful resources (analytical, pictorial, etc) that can be used to guide their research during the semester. Below are the instructions for the research portfolio and the Stories of Dress assessment that are completed by the end of the course.
RESEARCH PORTFOLIO ASSESSMENT INSTRUCTIONS![]() In this class, students are challenged to think critically about one dress practice, ensemble or object by applying concepts presented throughout the class to the selected item. After each section of the course is completed, students submit the portfolio to be reviewed for feedback and an opportunity to improve/develop knowledge. Overall, students are assessed based on identified critical thinking indicators. The portfolio overview and rubric have been provided below.
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STORIES OF DRESS: A BOOK's PERSPECTIVE.![]() At the beginning of the semester, students are given the opportunity to choose a trade book to read for the semester that connects to dress, clothing, fashion, etc. This allows students to choose a book that they are interested in and that connects to their path of study and/or major. A list of ten books is provided to the students to inspire their selection. With approval, students can choose a book that is not included on the list. Sample titles are: The Travels of a T-Shirt in a Global Economy: An Economist Examines the Markets, Power, and Politics of World Trade; Beautiful Flowers of the Maquiladora; Autobiography of a Wardrobe; Fashion: A Philosophy.
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