Research in Film Studies

Learning Outcomes

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• define and manage research projects in accordance with given deadlines and available/appropriate resources
• competently communicate ideas in writing (in terms of clarity of expression, structure of argument, correct grammar/spelling, appropriate presentation/layout, referencing conventions, etc.)
• 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.)

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• 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
• different research methodologies in film studies that enable you to pursue a research project of your choice

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

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.

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

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Academic Writing: A Handbook for International Students. Guidance on academic writing for EFL students.

The Complete Guide to Writing Your Dissertation. Manual describing the elements of a dissertation.

Writing and Presenting Research. Guide to research and writing.

A to Z of Correct English. Manual on academic English.

Internet Resources

MHRA Style Guide.

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.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

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.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External