Overview

The module content will be dictated by the student’s chosen field of study and area of interest. This module involves the design and completion of an extended project in Music, Film, Media, Journalism or Drama (or indeed a combination of these); the primary subject focus must align with the programme followed by the student. The nature of the project is flexible but should be a dissertation of around 8,000 words or its equivalent (see below). The work may be submitted in Welsh or English (or bilingually).

Drawing on knowledge and methodologies learned earlier in the degree, students are assisted via workshops and individual supervisions in devising, refining, developing and presenting a substantial piece of independent work on a topic of their choosing underpinned by research (including creative practice as research).

The module will focus on a wide variety of specific creative, research, and practical approaches (depending on your project). The content will be dictated by the student’s chosen field of study and area of interest. This module involves the production of an extended project in Music, Film, Media, Journalism or Drama (or indeed a combination of these); the primary subject focus must align with the programme followed by the student. Drawing on knowledge and methodologies learned earlier in the degree, students are assisted via workshops and individual supervisions in devising, refining, developing and presenting a substantial piece of independent work on a topic of their choosing underpinned by research (including creative practice as research). Indicative content of the workshops includes:

• using your project to enhance your employability
• critical reading and argument
• project management
• self-directed study
• working with a supervisor
• using feedback
• creative technology
• engaging audiences
• promoting your work (e.g. social media)
• archival research
• creative practice
• research methodologies

Assessment Strategy

Individual pathways in Music, Drama and in Film, Media and Journalism will provide additional subject-specific assessment criteria .

Threshold (40–49%), D- to D+ Work which displays a fundamental grasp of the topic (whether contextual or in practice), with adequate ability at conceptual thought, and some awareness of methodological issues (albeit limited), and showing sufficient evidence of a generally intellectual and/or creative approach, with fair expression in communication; draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

Good (50–59%), C- to C+ Work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials; it demonstrates good awareness of relevant style and structure but will be limited in expression; at least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student; assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning.

Very good (60-69%), B- to B+ Work which displays a sound grasp of the subject, a good level of conceptual thought, awareness of methodological and other issues, with evidence of intellectual acumen and good expression, expressed in writing or through creative practice; draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student; assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.

Excellent (70%+), A- to A** Work which displays a thorough grasp of the subject, with evidence of extended study, strong independent conceptual thought, originality of approach and excellent presentational skills; provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study and understanding of relevant scholarly literature.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply a range of study skills and methodologies appropriate to research / practice-based research in the arts.

• Create and sustain an argument (written, musical, visual or performative) and to communicate persuasively and coherently.

• Design and implement a programme of study with appropriate methodologies / practices to investigate underpinning research questions and / or to develop a substantial piece of practice-based research.

• Work independently to deadline over a sustained period of time under the guidance of a supervisor.