Overview

Students will develop a publishing strategy that incorporates acquisition of publishable material, design and production of a publishable book, the distribution of that book through appropriate bookselling channels, and the marketing an promotion of the book. Legal, regulatory and ethical issues regarding the acquisition and publishing will be identified, evaluated and applied to the publication. Students will work with a range of tools, technologies and resources for design and production and make informed decisions regarding their use. The relatives costs and advantages of distribution channels will be evaluated to allow the publishing teams to make informed choices. The work will be developed and implemented within the context of the independent publishing field, and students will be expected to identify models and methods that have been successful in other publications, and to apply those to their own productions.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -50-59% A Pass (C) candidate’s work will show many of the following qualities: • A satisfactory level of knowledge, analysis and expression. • Some familiarity with, and understanding of, relevant theoretical issues. • Generally sound organisation of argument, with some critical ability. • Accurate expression. • Competent use of quotation and references.

-good -60-69% A (B) candidate’s work reaching Merit will show many of the following qualities: • An advanced level of factual knowledge. • Significant [substantial] knowledge of relevant theories and types of analysis. • Some evidence of original thought. • The ability to organise and argue effectively, make balanced judgements, and demonstrate critical thought. • Fluent and accurate expression. • Competent use of quotation and references.

-excellent -70% and above Typically (A), the work of a candidate reaching Distinction will show many of the following qualities: • Thorough knowledge and understanding of relevant theories and types of analysis. • Thorough knowledge of a range of sources and the capacity to engage these critically. • Introduction and discussion of original ideas. • Relevant, well-organised and sophisticated argument. • High ratio of analysis to exposition. • Maturity, clarity and cogency of expression. • Excellent handling of quotation and references.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop and apply quality criteria to book production

• Evaluate and select appropriate publishing tools and technologies for each stage of the publishing workflow

• Identify and apply releant regulations and copyright law to the publication of a book

• Plan and implement a financially sound publishing strategy that incorporates all aspects of the publishing workflow.

• Reflect on and critically evaluate their own publishing strategies and performance

• Work as part of a productive publishing team on a long-tern project