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 analytical, preparatory, experimental and other practical work relating to media production plus associated research that underpins the project.

[Learning Outcomes 1- 4]

This module provides the framework for the initiation of your overall project as outlined in your Learning Contract. It should be used to establish working processes that will inform your practice as you begin to test ideas relating to the project aims and objectives set by you in your Learning Contract. The module will also allow for the on-going revision of your project and Learning Contract.

You will execute a body of film-based project work, and undertake relevant research to develop your ideas and working practices. You will be supported by regular workshops and tutorials, with industry professionals and academic advisors. Throughout the module, you will be required to present a reflective and critical evaluation of what you do in your project to staff and colleagues, including your academic advisor and peers.

You are expected to produce a Project Portfolio to accompany your main practical project. This should document the development of your work by providing: an analysis of project planning and the specific practices you must undertake to achieve your aims; evidence of research and a critical evaluation of what you are doing.

The portfolio should also provide evidence of how your project relates to the set aims and objectives of your overall programme of study, and include an analysis of the relationship between what you learn during work-shop sessions and the development of your main project.

The Project Portfolio can take a number of forms, including verbal or cinematic presentation, which are supported by evidence of appropriate research within the field.

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 specialist tutor. Dates of events will be included in the individual Learning Contracts.
Group workshops will be used to share practices and inform and develop independent research Learners will also have access to a wide range of industry professionals and events.

Negotiated access to equipment and workshop facilities and technical support appropriate to the representational resources you employ.

Facilities and suitable accommodation for the presentation of work.

A mixed platform virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Students are expected to take advantage of public as well as expert debates in their field of research, track relevant and authoritative resources available and keep abreast of current developments through appropriate printed and online publications. They are also encouraged to identify and interview relevant experts and expected to stay abreast of latest practices within the field and attend professional, film and media 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.