Module overview
Full-time and (normally) first year part-time students on the MA in Film Studies and the MA in Film and Cultural management follow this research skills course, which includes an introduction to research, study and presentation skills, information technology and library/remote data resources.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- evaluate different methodologies and resources available for the study of films, and test their applicability to your own research
- develop coherent, original, and intellectually persuasive critical arguments in discussions and in writing, drawing on appropriate resources and critical frameworks
- access recent research findings on the development of Film Studies as an academic discipline
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- different research methodologies in film studies that enable you to pursue a research project of your choice
- different forms of resources in the field of film studies, including library resources, such as book, journal, and micro-fiche/film collections, on-line resources, and databases, and regional, national, and international archival collections
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- competently communicate ideas in writing (in terms of clarity of expression, structure of argument, correct grammar/spelling, appropriate presentation/layout, referencing conventions, etc.)
- define and manage research projects in accordance with given deadlines and available/appropriate resources
- demonstrate effective research skills, through identifying, locating, selecting, and interpreting primary sources, e.g. web-based material, reviews, newspapers, marketing and other industry-related material etc.)
Syllabus
As a research skills course, content includes practical introductions to library resources and accessing electronic data, as well as dealing with information technology and particular portals for accessing such information. There are also sessions dealing with essential skills such as those associated with study and presentation, as well as some theories of research methodology.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include
- plenary seminar discussion
- tutor-supported individual work
Learning activities include
- preparation for individual discussion and participation in group discussion on a variety of relevant topics
- completion of an assignment requiring you research and analysis
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Independent Study | 125.5 |
Teaching | 24.5 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
The Complete Guide to Writing Your Dissertation. Manual describing the elements of a dissertation.
A to Z of Correct English. Manual on academic English.
Writing and Presenting Research. Guide to research and writing.
Academic Writing: A Handbook for International Students. Guidance on academic writing for EFL students.
Internet Resources
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Assessments designed to provide informal, on-module feedback
Feedback on oral presentations (by both peers and instructors). These will be group presentations, geared around research into a chosen topic.
N.B – Please note that this module is assessed on a pass-fail basis.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Digital presentation | 50% |
Assignment | 50% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Digital presentation | 50% |
Assignment | 50% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Digital presentation | 50% |
Assignment | 50% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External