This module will enable you to develop your ability to identify a subject of interest in your industry specialism in order to write a report showing your knowledge of an aspect of the sector in the global market. In consultation with your tutor you will agree an appropriate line of investigation that allows a level of research appropriate to the final year of an Honours degree. Your subject should be relevant to you and your discipline, allowing you to focus on an area of particular interest. Through the module you will be expected to demonstrate a wider view of your chosen discipline and develop effective methods of enquiry to explore identified academic, industry and/or theoretical contexts.

You will work through the module in a structured and time-managed way, from producing a proposal discussing the subject, supported by reasoning for engaging in the chosen area, through research activities and leading to a final written work in a suitable (tutor agreed) format. You will undertake research that comprises creative practice, theory, management and/or history. You will be expected to utilise both primary and secondary research methods that you will collate, interpret and present in a professional academic manner. The conclusion of the written work will assist and inform the development of professional practices and be applicable to your career aspirations.

Throughout you will be expected to exhibit appropriate research and understanding, the ability to apply critical analysis, opinion and organisation of material into a coherent argument that addresses specific questions or concerns within your chosen subject area. You should be careful to select a topic or subject that allows sufficient in-depth investigation, and not approach an area with a scale that cannot be developed in sufficient depth within the agreed timeframe.

You may need to seek ethical clearance for your project if it includes research relating to humans or animals, for example if you are working with children or vulnerable adults. This is a straight forward process whereby your proposal is reviewed by a university panel to make sure that you are working within appropriate guidelines. The details are available on the university website, with the forms you may need to complete. Your tutor will help you with the process.

https://www.staffs.ac.uk/research/research-governance/ethics

Assessment 1: A 4,000 word illustrated report critically analysing current contemporary practices in the UK and internationally, making use of primary and secondary sources and presented in an academic format [bibliography and references excluded from word count] (100%) [LO 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5]



Further clarity will be provided in detailed project brief.

This module empowers you to select a compelling topic within your field to craft a detailed report or extended essay showcasing your expertise in a global market context. With guidance from your tutor, you will define a focused research path suitable for the final year of an Honours degree, reflecting your personal and disciplinary interests. Through structured research activities, encompassing creative practice, theory, management, and/or history, you will employ both primary and secondary research methods to produce a professional academic work. This module culminates in a well-supported written piece that contributes to your professional development and aligns with your career goals.

Whilst you will be spending the majority of your time in personal study and research, utilising resources such as the library, industry practitioners, exhibitions etc., you will also participate in the following activities:

Introductory briefing/lecture
Individual and group tutorials supporting the selection of appropriate subjects, the structuring of the research and writing phases of the module, and enabling opportunities for peer and tutor feedback
Group criticism sessions allowing constructive and evaluative discussions
Writing workshops

VLE (Virtual Learning Environment)

ooks

Marstine, J., 2017. Critical Practice: Artists, museums, ethics (Museum Meanings). Abingdon: Routledge.

Pooke, G., 2010. Contemporary British Art: An Introduction. Abingdon: Routledge.

Raunig, G. and Ray, G., 2009. Art and Contemporary Critical Practice: Reinventing Institutional Critique. London: MayFlyBooks.
It is expected students will take advantage of the library facilities available, keep up to date on current developments through journals and be aware of the work of major practitioners in their subject.

Students will have access to studio space and college library and computer resources.
University learning resources are available on campus at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent, and online via the partner Need to Know pages of the university website.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/partnerships/current_students/email/index.jsp

Detailed knowledge of concepts and principles at least some of which are at or are informed by current specialist practice in the UK and internationally in relation to your own work and professional aspirations.

Knowledge and Understanding


Critically evaluate a range of material you have researched in order to present a coherent and in-depth discussion concerning practices within your chosen specialism.

Analysis


Identify appropriate areas of investigation in order to generate a range of ideas, information and options, and manage your research findings to create a suitable outcome that meets academic and professional expectations.

Problem Solving


Effectively discuss and disseminate your research findings to an audience in a professional and articulate manner, through written, verbal and visual methods.

Communication


Manage your process and progress at all stages of the assignment in order to generate an original, in-depth study within the agreed timeframe.

Reflection