Course Resources Archive

This module provides the opportunity to undertake an extended piece of independent research into an area of film, television or related screen media industries/cultures/practices. The final project will be an 18,000 word written project that can be theoretically focused or practice/industry-focused. In either case, it should demonstrate a synthesis of knowledge of theory and practice/production gained through the MA’s earlier modules, and display substantive critical understanding of contemporary screen media cultures.

Students will begin this module in their second semester, with taught sessions in research methods and approaches, providing a solid understanding of academic conventions and information literacy skills, to prepare them for their project.; these would be intensive  sessions, held during the Easter Break.  In their core units in Semester 1 students will have covered the Information Literacy skills needed for all their assignments . They will be required to carry out research exercises to formatively assess their ability to progress with their project. These taught sessions will be delivered alongside students taking JOP 406 and MEC 406 in order to provide opportunities for collaborative working and sharing of ideas and approaches. They will complete either a written dissertation or a practical project which demonstrates advanced levels of research, production, analytical and presentation skills. Students will be required to work independently towards submission of their project. Proposals must be submitted on the appropriate PMS form for consideration by a sub-committee of the Course Board of Studies. Supervisory support will be provided at the planning, research and production/writing stages.

On successful completion of the module the student should be able to:

i. formulate a challenging and creative project proposal based upon a detailed understanding of appropriate research methods and approaches and a clear of application of academic conventions
ii. structure a clear and theoretically informed argument that demonstrates a sophisticated ability to synthesise information and argue alternative approaches
iii. critically analyse the cultural context the topic operates in and the implications of the ethical, political, and social dilemmas involved in the project with an ability to communicate that awareness in their writing
iv. engage in academic debate at a significant level with an ability to make an informed contribution to the chosen genre of academic or practice-based work
v. initiate, develop and realise distinctive and creative work for one or more screen media formats/industries demonstrating technical expertise and reflective practice
vi. maintain a challenging schedule and work to tight deadlines using organisational and problem solving skills

16 hours contact time
584 hours  independent study

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.