The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

As appropriate to your individual proposal and identified in the Learning Contract. Students are expected to keep abreast of current research developments in Film and Media, by engaging with industry and Institutional Bodies. They are also expected to stay abreast of latest practices within the field and attend professional industry events.

Generally useful texts on studying independently and planning research projects are:
Bailey, S. (2003) Academic Writing: A practical guide for students, Cheltenham: Nelson Thornes.
Barzun, J. & Graff, H. F. (1992) The Modern Researcher, London: Harcourt & Brace.
Berry, R. (2000) The Research Project: How to Write It, London: Routledge
Erickson, G, 2005 The Independent Producers Survival Guide: A Business and Legal Source Book. 2nd Edition: Schirmer Trade Books.
Goodell, G, 2003, Independent Film Production: A Complete Guide Through Concept to Distribution. 1st Edition: St. Martin's Griffin,
Lang, J. (2000) Lights Camera, Action, London: BFI Publishing.
Marshell, L & Rowland, F (2004) A Guide to Learning Independently, London: OUP.

Portfolio to be negotiated with the supervisor will consist of:- Coursework (100%)
The exact nature and content being identified by the student, with appropriate staff help, in the Learning Contract. It will probably take the form of experimental and other practical work relating to artifacts and images plus associated research that underpins the project. {Learning Outcomes 1- 7]

In order to qualify for the MSC, the project will focus upon the artistic approaches to filmmaking, using predominantly qualitative methodologies. Various methods can be adopted when exploring topics, including but not exclusively: lateral thinking, grounded theory or action research.

This module enables you to demonstrate to a high level, the in-depth practical skills and theoretical knowledge accumulated during your programme of study as set out in your finalised Learning Contract following the Negotiated Project 2 module. It provides you with the opportunity to determine and deliver, through screening, exhibition or other appropriate means, a fully consolidated and resolved programme of study as manifest in your resulting artefacts and research.

The module is the culmination of all your preceding project work and represents a sustained and in-depth body of work using the relevant professional, practical and research skills you have acquired during the programme.

During the module you will continue to produce and refine your project work with relevant research supported by tutorials.

In order to qualify for the MSc, the project will focus upon the technical approaches to filmmaking, using predominantly quantitative methodologies. The emphasis will be upon the scientific method when exploring topics, using hypotheses, testing, analysis and evaluation as a framework for understanding.

The module will employ a range of learning strategies, including:

Tutor or student led tutorials addressing issues and concerns pertinent to the development of the individual project. These will be timetabled between the student and the relevant supervisor. Dates of events will be included in the individual Learning Contracts.

A range of learning strategies will be used to share practices and inform and develop independent research (these could include face-to-face tutorials, Skype, online learning, emails, group workshops or short courses). Learners will also have access to a wide range of industry professionals and events.