The assessed components to this module are :

- Application of Principles
An online digital submission showreel compilation of technical and creative exercises described in (1) Your showreel you will demonstrate understanding and application of Animation Principles applied to both traditional and digital methods of animation production. [ Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3,4]
Weighted at 50% of the module = 300 hours of study time

- Contextual Practice
1,000 word illustrated essay and visual presentation within the area of a specified research topic which explores key milestones and developments in animation production from 1900 onwards [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 5,6] Weighted at 25% of the module = 150 hours of study time

- Drawing
All students should produce an online portfolio of drawn work that demonstrates competence in visual communication including life drawing, storyboards and exercises which demonstrate observation of movement, weight and dynamics of the human body. [ Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 5, 3]
Weighted at 25% of the module= 150 hours of study time

Key Information Set Data:
100% Coursework

This introductory module introduces the 12 core principles of animation, as established by the Disney studio. It is the foundation for studying Animation, especially at University level. The module will bring together design, theory and practice in an integrated module which provides a thorough grounding in the art of animation. Added to this Drawing and Contextual studies provide the three cornerstones upon which to build your practice.

It is important that students should draw confidently in order to communicate visual ideas and narrative concepts effectively. This can be developed by close observation of movement in life drawing and short Animation sketches to show an understanding of the Animation principles. Finally, exploration of the context in which animation production takes place in relationship to historical and contemporary practice across the creative industries globally is a vital part of your studies.

You will work on 3 assessed components which relate to the core process of Animation - referencing the 12 main principles. You will build a clear theoretical overview of these principles and then apply them through traditional drawing methods of production. This will lead on into digital production techniques in 2D Digital formats and simple 3D CGi sequences. You will be introduced to Stop Frame methods of production. At the end of this process you will have explored a range of production techniques. Your work will be gathered in a digital portfolio consisting of animation and drawings.

You will produce a written essay and group presentation exploring the context of the work you have created. As such you will be invited to attend events and screening as part of this module both at timetabled scheduled sessions and outside the University. You will be encouraged to create an online journal of your development as an animator. This will document the development of your skills and will also introduce you to the benefits of networking with others, both in your peer group and externally.

It is expected that you will understand digital formats for submission of digital work and academic writing conventions.

Burnham, D., et.al. 2008. Studying Independently and Producing better Written Work. Staffordshire University: Faculty of Arts, Media and Design [Booklet]
Cottrell, S. 2008. The Study Skills Handbook. London: Palgrave Macmillan
Edwards B 2001 The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain HarperCollins
Mather, P. and R. McCarthy. 2005. The Art of Critical Reading: Brushing Up On Your Reading, Thinking, and Study Skills. Boston: McGraw-Hill
Mcllroy, D. 2003. Studying @ University: How to be a Successful Student. London: Sage Publications
Patmore C. (2003) :The Complete Animation Course. Barron's Educational Series
Stanchfield W & Hahn D Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes: The Walt Stanchfield Lectures - Volume 1 & 2 2009 Focal Press
Thomas F. & Johnston O. (1997): The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation. Hyperion
Wells P. & Quinn J. (2009): Basics Animation 03: Drawing for Animation. Ava Publishing
Whittaker H. & Hales J. (1999):Timing for Animation. Focal Press
Williams R. (2002): The Animator's Survival Kit. Faber & Faber

A set of weekly lectures will introduce you to historical and contemporary practice in animation and other creative practices throughout the 20th & 21st centuries. This will underpin your Studio practice where demonstrations will be focused on the development of Animation exercises and sketches showing application of Disney's 12 Principles of Animation. This study period will introduce you to how traditional drawn animation influences and supports digital methodology. Through these initial lectures you will gain an understanding of the core concepts required to develop animation production skills throughout the award. Fundamental to the core philosophy of the `suspension of disbelief' is in making animated characters Act. Digital Tools will be available to use on the course and students should explore a range of production techniques appropriate to the work they want to achieve.

Your work will be supported by online resources from a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) providing resources for study. As the majority of work is submitted digitally this is an integral part of learning on the course.

Students will also have access to a range of video tutorials through the Library from online learning resource providers.

Independent study will form time spent 'answering the module components ' through evidence of research, preparation and pre-production drawings, studio engagement and application of methods and processes necessary for completion of an appropriate response to the assignments.

Seminars and group critiques support your studio practice through formative evaluation and will take place throughout the module as well as at critical points of the semester to review working progress. Students are expected to engage in this process as part of the module feedback cycle. Summative assessment takes place at the end of the module where digital / online portfolios and written work will be presented for final assessment.

There will be designated tutorials set up to enable students to discuss their work individually with key members of delivery staff.
Where students require pastoral support this is available through contacting your Personal Year Group Tutor or Award Leader (Stuart Messinger.)

There is a dedicated support technician for the animation awards and you will be able to access a range of equipment and resources to assist in the production of your work. Where required, booking of equipment and facilities may be necessary by the student.

Key Information Set Data:
25% Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities
75% Guided Independent Learning

Life Drawing studio
2D line testers and light-boxes. A3 scanners. Photoshop. Storyboardpro2. Harmony 7.8. Final cut Pro. i-movie. i-DVD. After Effects.
Seminar / Lecture room with projector. 2D Line testers and 2D light-boxes.
CGI Maya 2012 in Final cut pro, i-movie, i-DVD, After Effects
Green screen with infinity wall, lights and camera.
High spec workstation with Maya, Harmony, After Effects, Nuke and Photoshop
Stop Motion Stop Motion Pro, Canon SLR digital cameras lighting rigs
Online / VLE / Blackboard / Lynda.com
The Library
The Library can be accessed from: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/uniservices/infoservices/library/
Reference books / DVD collection / CD collection / Journals and periodicals