This module provides students with the opportunity to design and deliver a substantial piece of independent work. It showcases the advanced research and professional skills students have developed in the fields of digital media and the creative industries during their MA.
The module offers a choice of a dissertation or creative project, providing students the flexibility to choose the research format best suited to their research interests, existing expertise, and career goals.
If the student chooses to complete an extended piece of writing, they will develop an initial project proposal, which outlines the title, research question, and the form of the chosen project. They will work with a supervisor to develop this into a dissertation that demonstrates independent research and highly advanced critical thinking in the subject area.
If the student chooses to complete a project with a creative component, they will develop a research question, conduct contextual and theoretical academic research and employ creative processes as research methods in their own right, to practically interrogate their topic.
The module culminates in a substantial independent submission that consolidates learning from across the programme and prepares students for further academic or professional pathways.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Identify and articulate a focused research question or project aim, demonstrating insight into critical debates in digital media and the creative industries.
Design and manage an independent project by developing and applying appropriate research methodologies and/or creative processes.
Demonstrate knowledge of, and engagement in, an area of digital media and the creative industries, through relevant analysis, case studies, or creative ideation.
Produce and communicate a substantial outcome, that is substantiated by analysis and interpretation, and presented with independence of thought, clarity, and well-finished presentation.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
12,000-word written project (100%)
OR
A creative, cultural or media product (65%), for example: Approx. 15-minute film or digital performance; 20 page exhibition catalogue; 8000-word written product; or equivalent 4000-word critical commentary) (35%)
Reassessment:
Failed component only
12,000-word written project (100%)
OR
A creative, cultural or media product (65%), for example: Approx. 15-minute film or digital performance; 20 page exhibition catalogue; 8000-word written product; or equivalent 4000-word critical commentary (35%)
