HISTORY IN CONTEXT TO OBJECTS


How the design of things is affected by the people
who made them.

Aesthetics, philosophy, religion, economics, technology, society, and politics – Learning to look at objects as expressions of a place and time.    

Meet Your Course Lead: Prof. Nishith Mehta

Prof. Nishith Mehta - a passionate thinker and educator.

Strives to bring a rich blend of practical artistry and academic prowess to the fields of History, Theater, and Design here at ATLAS SkillTech University. With a foundational Bachelor of Visual Arts degree in Painting and by a Master of Visual Arts in Art History and Aesthetics from M. S. University of Baroda, I have cultivated a deep interest in the visual and performative arts, which I am excited to share with you.

In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I am a scriptwriter, copywriter, designer of free birthday cards and wedding invitations for family members, and an illustrator of children's stories – making me keenly interested in learning everything, everywhere all of the time! Apart from what I talk about in the classroom, I’m always up for a chai and broader discussions on art, design, life, philosophy, mythology, and education. I believe rigorous academic methods work best with a palpable passion for knowledge and wisdom. I’m wholeheartedly dedicated to fostering an environment of creativity and critical thinking to prepare you to be thoughtful, sensitive, and innovative designers.  

Who is this course for?

First Year Design Students of all disciplines

Key Takeaways...

  Understand the interconnectedness of the varieties of human culture from a historical lens.   
  Understand the impact of culture, material, and technology on design in terms of function and utility.    
  Understand the dynamics of working in collaborative settings and the value of self-learning and peer-to-peer learning.   
  Fluency in contextualizing crafted/designed objects through visual analysis within the broad arc of human history.    
  Fluency in practical and ethical aspects of resourcing and research.  
  Demonstrate the ability to build contextual narratives.  

Frequently Asked Questions


How is studying online different?

Studying online offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from any location. However, it requires self-discipline and time management skills. Unlike traditional classrooms, online learning often lacks face-to-face interaction, making it essential to actively engage with digital resources, participate in discussions, and seek help proactively.

How will watching the videos help?

Watching the videos provides a visual and auditory learning experience, enhancing understanding of complex concepts through demonstrations, animations, and expert explanations. Videos allow you to pause, rewind, and review material, aiding in better retention and comprehension. They also serve as a primary means of instruction, complementing readings and interactive activities.

How do I clarify doubts?

It is vital to note down questions while you access the online content. Every few weeks, there will be a scheduled session where you can clarify your doubts through discussions with your faculty. You may also use the following channels -

Google Classroom – This is where your assignments will be posted and your faculty will be available to answer queries regarding specific assignments, feedback, etc.

Email – This is for queries and doubts not related to specific assignments. Please note that your teacher may not be able to respond to the email immediately, so please allow for a day or two. Please mark your Advisor, and Course Lead in cc. in emails you send your faculty.

Contact Hours – Permanent faculty, including the Course Lead are available in the given contact hours accessible on your app. If any of the above methods don’t work, or if directed by faculty/advisor, please feel free to book a slot on the given contact hours with any of us to resolve the issue.

It's important to proactively try to resolve your queries yourself first, but also not hesitate to reach out for clarification when needed.

How will I be assessed?

Quiz - Each module will end with a short quiz. This allows you to assess how much of it is retained, and if you need to revisit a particular lecture/podcast. A minimum of 60% is required to move to the next module. This is not a component of your final grades.

Project – The course will require you to do 2 projects over the semester. Instructions for project work will be posted on Google Classroom. Project work and progress will be discussed in the scheduled classes by your faculty. This is a component of your final grades.

Exam – The Mid Term and End Term exams will be written exams. Instructions and Format will be shared with you in detail. This is a component of your final grades.

Each of these components is designed to evaluate your understanding and engagement with the course material. Detailed rubrics and feedback will be provided to guide your progress and identify areas for improvement.    

Submission of Assignments

Assignments must be submitted on Google Classroom. Specific instructions, deadlines, and formats will be shared on the same. Ensure the following –

Read the Instructions carefully – Once before you do the assignment, and once before you submit the assignment to ensure everything that is asked for is included.

Go through the Grading Criteria – Every assignment is designed to assess a particular skill/understanding. A clear break up of what grade will be given to what kind of work is given alongside each instruction. Please ensure before submitting that those criteria are met to the best of your ability.

Check your submissions – Please ensure after submitting, that the right files are attached in the right format. If you choose to resubmit an assignment, it is a good idea to mention it in the comments section for the reference to the faculty.

Ensure you follow the submission guidelines and deadlines strictly to avoid penalties. Regularly check the platform for updates and feedback on your submissions.


How do I manage my time?

Ensure you have seen the videos given in each week, during the course of the week. There will be times when you cannot keep up. So it is best not to delay for no reason, so as not to pile up a backlog. As engaging as we have made the course watching and listening to history can be heavy and too much of it at a time may not be the best course of action. So don’t leave watching the videos to the last day.

Most importantly, ensure your work is done, doubts ready to ask, assignments submitted before your next class, so that your limited interaction with the faculty can be productive.    

How will group projects work?

Working in groups is essential to the study of design. The second project will be done in a group of your peers. Each member will be expected to contribute equally to the project work. Assign roles, set deadlines, and regularly update each other on progress to ensure the project is completed effectively and on time. Maintain a worksheet to record each member’s progress and contribution and share it with your faculty. In the spirit of doing a good project, help each other achieve expected targets. Clear communication and coordination are crucial. If there are conflicts you are unable to resolve on your own, contact your faculty early on. Last-minute complaints are difficult for us to address.

Crucially, each member is expected to submit the work on Google Classroom. If not submitted, the project will not be graded, even if you have done the work and are credited for the same in the project.    

What technology requirements are needed for this course? 

Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a device to access the videos, with clear audio. Preferably do not use your phones, as the videos contain images that need to be carefully seen. Sign up and familiarize yourself with the learning management system.

How can I access additional resources or support?

Additional recommended readings, books, videos, podcasts, etc. will be shared with you on the LMS. Utilize these resources to supplement your learning and seek help if you encounter technical or academic issues.

What should I do if I fall behind? 

If you fall behind, communicate with your Advisors and faculty immediately to discuss the reasons, remedies, and catch-up plans. Stay proactive in seeking help and adjusting your study plan to get back on track.