Media Centre
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.

A specific subject based reading list will be made available in the course of the module.

Suggested Study Skills texts:
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
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

Lectures
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
Educational visits

You will present a body of coursework for assessment, including: A Personal Visual Notebook containing as series of exercises relating to research, observation and information gathering which will be presented to your peers and staff.
[Learning Outcomes 1-4]

This module introduces you to the skills needed to research, evaluate and present information - skills on which the professional practice of film production now 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 film/media field. You will be introduced to the 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 a creative manner, which will encompass 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 aimed at developing your sense of enquiry, learning, analysis and communication.