This module will introduce students to the theory and practice of editing. Students will gain a structured overview of issues relating to the editing of literary texts from self-editing as a creative strategy and editing as mentoring, (building on the students’ creative writing to date) to editing as a professional activity involving different types and levels of expertise.
They will be introduced to both generic and genre/media specific editing techniques, and will be given the opportunity to hone their ability to make realistic (critical and aesthetic) editorial judgments through a practical editing project, involving the selection, text-editing/proof-reading, curation of an 'anthology' on a theme of their choice.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student should be able to:
show understanding of the conflicts facing editors in relation to promoting quality literary and media products while working within commercial restraints
demonstrate an understanding of the different challenges involved in self-editing and editing the work of others
show understanding of the difference between editing as 'proof-reading' and editing as 'formative advice or mentoring', their applicability in a professional editing context, and the potential overlap between the two
demonstrate individual editing skills and insights with reference to prose writing and to one additional genre
perform collaborative editorial tasks, including selection and organization of material; and work to a deadline
reflect on options, choices (selection criteria) and outcomes, and the relationship between theory and practice with reference to the practical editorial task