Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - CA 285 D100

Interdisciplinary Studio - Composition/Collaboration (3)

Class Number: 4259

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    One of CA 122, 130, 145, 150, 160, 170.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the techniques of artistic composition as experienced in a collaborative interdisciplinary studio environment. The emphasis is on the creation, analysis and critique of new compositions created in collaborative groups by students in dance, music, theatre, film/video and visual art.

COURSE DETAILS:

Description: 

CA 285 is an introduction to the techniques of artistic composition as experienced in a collaborative interdisciplinary environment. Students will work in groups to create original compositions using elements of sound, light, video or visual art/instillation, and movement among other forms, with a focus on live-ness, presence, and audience experience/engagement. Each student will participate throughout the process in the creation of a number of composition projects through group collaborations and will submit short critical reflections based on assigned readings and videos.  Students should be prepared for group discussion /collaborations in every class meeting. Your attendance and ability to work in groups will be an important part of this studio course and your evaluation.

  





COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Objectives:

  1. To acquire an awareness and a set of basic compositional tools that students can apply to any artistic/performance discipline. To bring focus to the choices we make in the construction of our ideas. 
  2. To learn basic skills that will allow students to collaborate with peers in different artistic/performance disciplines. Getting to know ourselves as collaborators and how to work across disciplines. 
  3. To develop the observational and verbal skills that allows one an approach critique of the work of others through a deepening of the awareness of our perception and an analysis of composition.

Grading

  • Attendace and Participation 25%
  • Projects 60%
  • Written Assignments 10%
  • Classroom Community Engagement - 5% 5%

NOTES:

Compositions:

You will create several short studies in a collaborative group to share in class.  These works can range from video to live performance, sound score or installation, etc.   You will have time during class to work with your groups in the studio and you will need to plan for some group meetings outside of class time.  You can book additional space if needed for class projects on the SCA website.  

Written Assignments: 

Several short reflections and assignments will be assigned throughout the term through Canvas. You will also be expected to contribute to discussions about the readings in class. 

Participation: 

How you work- your attention and level of engagement in the class is a large percentage of your grade.  Your attendance, energy in the group work, focus during showings and feedback are all considered in your participation mark.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Reading materials will be provided through Canvas 


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.