Course Resources Archive

This module allows students to develop an understanding of the professional practices associated with working in the media industry. Students will research, secure and undertake a period or work experience or industrial placement in a business or organisation appropriate to the field of study.

The module will deliver taught sessions on preparing for and evaluating work experience, researching career opportunities, and on the development of interpersonal skills. An increased awareness of media industry careers will be secured through guest lectures and master classes from industry workers. Small group workshops will develop skills of self-promotion, personal confidence and professionalism, which are transferable into any workplace. PDP will be delivered through workshops on CV writing, letters of application, interview skills, portfolio management, networking and the basics of freelance/self employment. Students will also learn about the increasingly important roles of freelance working and opportunities in independent media as well as how to sell ideas to commissioning editors.

The period of work experience will take place within the media industry. The placement period should cover a minimum of 10 working days throughout the course of the module, to be taken in a block during holidays, or at weekends or evenings, in order to give maximum flexibility and opportunity. Subject to negotiation with tutors, these days might extend across more than one organisation. Students will be expected to reflect upon this work experience critically and to apply their experience to theoretical/conceptual  elements of their course.

1. Demonstrate a secure understanding of their own personal attributes and be self-reflective about the skills and abilities that they possess, or need to acquire, for future employment

2. Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the employment opportunities in the media industry and the skills required to work in a variety of contexts

3. Operate in the workplace confidently and professionally, demonstrating effective self promotion

4. Develop an awareness and ability to critically evaluate the position of the host within the context of media companies

5. Observe, record and reflect critically upon a period of work experience, drawing connections between this and theoretical issues developed in the course that have evaluated television industry practices

6. Demonstrate both an independent approach and be able to respond effectively to advice

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