Lecture Theatre
Data Projector
Design Collection
Library
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Lectures
Academic workshops
Small group sessions (seminars, tutorials)
Independent study in support of your project work
Short exercises and assignments that help you to apply and evaluate your learning

An award-specific reading list will be made available in the course of the module.

Suggested Study Skills texts:

Bernstein, M. M. and G. Yatchisin. 2001. Writing for the visual arts. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Prentice Hall
Burnham, D., et.al. 2008. Studying Independently and Producing better Written Work. Staffordshire University: Faculty of Arts, Media and Design [Booklet]
Clanchy, J. and B. Ballard. 1993. How to Write Essays: A Practical Guide for Students. Essex: Longman
Cottrell, S. 2008. The Study Skills Handbook. London: Palgrave Macmillan
Davies, B. 1990. Study Skills: a Student's Survival Guide. Hampshire: Gower Publishing
Fairbarn, G. and C. Winch. 1996. Reading, Writing and Reasoning. Milton Keynes: Open University Press.
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
Rowntree, D.. 1998. Learn How to Study. New York: Time Warner.
Shlain, L. 1998. The Alphabet versus the Goddess - The Conflict Between Word and Image. New York: Penguin
Suggested Cartoon & Comic Arts texts:

Gravett, P, & Stanbury, P. (2006) Great British Comics. Celebrating a Century of Ripping Yarns and Wizard Wheezes. London: Aurum
Sabin, R. (2003) Comics, Comix & Graphic Novels. A History of Comic Arts. New York: Phaidon
Walker, B. (2004) Comics Before 1945. New York: Harry N. Abrams
Walker, B. (2002) Comics Since 1945. New York: Harry N. Abrams

This module introduces you to the skills needed to research, evaluate and present information - skills on which the professional practice in the cartoonist field depend. You will be introduced to resources both within and outside the University which enable you to gather information. You will learn the conventions employed to organise information and explore some of the techniques (and technologies) now used to present information in written, verbal and visual forms. The emphasis is very much on acquiring skills through practice. In addition to illustrated talks and informal discussion groups, you will participate in exercises designed to help you understand the methods and conventions by which you can research, evaluate and communicate your interest in both the practice and history/theory of the media field. You will learn how to use the Betty Smithers Design Collection and external research resources (linked with your Study Trip), as well as the Thompson Library. You will also acquire the IT skills you need for the gathering and presenting of information in an academic context. You will carry out a research-based, specialist project and make a presentation of your findings to staff and students. You will carry out a series of short exercises on academic writing (at university level) and write a brief essay.

1,000 word illustrated essay within the area of cartoons and comics about a specified research topic weighted at 50%. [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4]
A presentation on the research conducted as a basis for the essay weighted at 50%. [ Learning Outcomes 1,2,3]