Overview

This module explores a number of manifestations of music within society. Students on this module will extend their knowledge and understanding of the topic through one or more case studies arising from staff research expertise. Students will develop skills in the analysis of music and musicking in a cultural context, and will explore theoretical aspects of applied music practice. Students will also acquire skills of observation, evaluation and critical thinking that can then be put into practice in their own research projects.

Topics will vary from year to year, responding to the research expertise of staff allocated to teach the module, and, to some extent, student interests. Proposed possible topics include: - Music, Health and wellbeing - Ethnomusicology - Music and Politics - Early music in society - Cultural Heritage and Identity - Music and Climate Change.

Topics will vary from year to year, responding to the research expertise of staff allocated to teach the module, and, to some extent, student interests. Indicative topics include: - Music, Health and wellbeing - Ethnomusicology - Music and Politics - Early music in society - Cultural Heritage and Identity - Music and Climate Change.

Assessment Strategy

50%-59% (Pass) The crucial achievement is demonstration of a sound grasp of the topic and relevant secondary literature, appropriate use of sources, which are critically examined, interpreted and contextualised, methodological tools and technical terminology. However, the mark will be limited to this level by such things as: unoriginal application of a pre-defined methodology, which results in a failure to address its limitations with regard to the subject matter concerned; heavy reliance on and unquestioned use of secondary literature; inability to distinguish the relevant from the irrelevant; poor expression; incompetent bibliographical and footnoting skills.

60%-69% (Merit) The distinguishing quality is the generation of some original insights, resulting from research into a little-explored area and/or the competent and creative use of methodologies, which are further developed or applied to a new field of study. The work will therefore demonstrate the ability to develop an original and sophisticated argument without intrinsic contradictions and inconsistencies; secure intellectual grasp of material beyond the subject matter narrowly defined; ability to diagnose and remedy problems and contradictions within previous scholarship; effective communication of ideas and argument. Work of this category may contain many of the same qualities which qualify for distinction (70% and over), but they will be demonstrated at a less independent level, or the work may be outstanding in one distinction characteristic, but significantly deficient in another.

70%-83% (Distinction) The distinguishing quality is the generation of novel and original insights, which make a substantial contribution to scholarship and substantially advance the current understanding of the topic. Work of this category will typically result from: the aggregation of a sizeable body of previously unresearched information; the development of tailor-made methodology, which sheds new light on the subject; true intellectual acumen, scholarly rigour, analytical skills of high order; the solution of challenging problems or identification of hidden flaws in established academic knowledge and discourse. Depending on the nature of the research project, a notable degree of innovation is recognisable either in all of these aspects or in selection, then to a higher extent.

84%-100% (High Distinction) Work at this level is of a standard that attains or closely approaches professional standards and has the potential to re-define the area or methodological debate. The work will demonstrate in a consistent manner all of the features listed in the 70%-84% category, and will be of such a quality that it either stands up to publication in a scholarly journal in its submitted state or with presentational amendments.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate critical and analytical skills of high order.

• Demonstrate enhanced communication skills.

• Develop appropriate, tailor-made methodologies.

• Provide novel and original insights into specific topics in the field of music in society.