This module allows you to propose and undertake a negotiated programme of self-directed research and development leading to a substantial body of creative work.

As part of your self-directed research, you will exercise appropriate research, design and craft skills in demonstrating your ability to synthesise your acquired knowledge, experience and expertise. The theme of the project will be determined by you in negotiation with your supervisory team.

You will be expected to define its subject and context by identifying and reflecting upon contemporary practice, designers, artists and companies in your specialist area, alongside suitable markets and audiences for the outcomes of your creative practice. You should also develop an understanding of the broad context in which your work will operate and effective methods of self and project management.

Your project should be logical, sensible and attainable, and based on your career aspirations upon graduating. you would be expected where appropriate to exploit the knowledge and experience gained during the previous modules.

Assessment 1: Coursework

You are expected to demonstrate an iterative, research-informed design process through sketchbooks, notebooks, maquettes, and a digital portfolio. Work should evidence the development of original ideas in response to their brief, supported by exploration of materials, processes, and techniques.

Evidence of contextual understanding must be included, showing how the work is informed by relevant historical and contemporary practices from ceramics, design, art and other creative disciplines as appropriate.

Final submissions should include resolved ceramic pieces, supported by testing, development work, and clearly articulated conclusions.

Assessment 2: Presentation

You will present your design proposals and outcomes to a professional standard, clearly communicating the rationale, process, and indication of resolution for your work.

Presentations should demonstrate the ability to articulate decisions, reflect on the development of the work, and situate outcomes within an appropriate contextual and professional framework.

You are expected to respond to questions, demonstrating clarity of communication and depth of understanding.

Assessment 3: Reflective Report

You will produce a critical reflective report which intelligently articulates the aims and context of your practice and reflects on the coursework holistically. The report should be illustrated and word processed over a maximum of 20 pages.

Formative Assessment: Midway formative feedback will be embedded within practical sessions, providing structured opportunities for feedback on work-in-progress to support your development and progression.

The learning activity is centred on project based independent study. This is supported by a range of learning strategies including lectures, peer-to-peer learning in group seminars and one-to-one tutorials. Outside of timetabled sessions, you are expected to arrange and utilise workshops and facilities appropriate to your selected area of research.

1. Define and undertake a coherent programme of self-directed research and development, critically evaluating methodologies in relation to your professional objectives.

Research skills
Personal Development and Entrepreneurship

2. Synthesise advanced knowledge to develop original, high-quality outcomes informed by contemporary practice.

Knowledge & Understanding
Application & Problem Solving

3. Demonstrate autonomy and professional judgement in planning, developing, and critically evaluating your work within its context.

Application & Problem Solving
Reflection

4. Communicate your work effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences through appropriate visual, verbal and written formats, articulating your process, decisions, and conclusions.

Communication

Classroom sessions
Ceramic workshops
3D CAD software
2D CAD software
Student Life https://www.youtube.com/@uniofstaffsstudentlife/videos
University Careers https://staffs.careercentre.me/Members
University Library https://libguides.staffs.ac.uk/library
Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment will support this module where relevant
Specialist Spaces etc.
Smart Zone
CAD Labs
Print Bureau
Betty Smithers Design collection

Lilley, C. (2017), Vitamin C: Clay and Ceramic in Contemporary Art. Berlin: Phaidon.

Schwartz, J., (2008) Confrontational Ceramics, A&C Black.

Buszek, M, E., (2011) Extra/Ordinary: Craft and Contemporary Art, Duke University Press.

Greenhalgh, P., (2002) The Persistence of Craft, A&C Black

Livingstone, A., and Petrie K, (2020) The Ceramics Reader, Bloomsbury Visual Arts.

Where older texts are included, they are retained as foundational texts within the discipline, remaining relevant where no more recent equivalent texts are available.

Trade periodicals, for example, Tableware International, Elle Decor, World of Interiors, and as appropriate websites and design blogs (examples below);

https://www.ceramicreview.com
http://ceramicartlondon.com
https://www.thedesigntrust.co.uk
https://www.craftscouncil.org.uk
https://www.dezeen.com/

What do you want your creative practice to become and how will you get there?

In this module, you will design and undertake a self-directed programme of research and development, leading to a substantial body of creative work. You’ll define your own project in negotiation with your tutors, exploring relevant contexts, audiences, and professional directions.

Through research, making, and reflection, you will synthesise your knowledge and skills while developing effective project management strategies. This module supports your transition into professional practice, aligning your work with your career ambitions after graduation.