Module: DAN4103-20 Exploring Screendance

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Anna Heighway

Module Tutor Contact Details: a.heighway@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Screendance is an exciting hybrid genre that explores how dance and filmmaking might interrelate.  In this module you will grow skills in this area through a dynamic approach to your learning that combines practical investigation and experimentation, lively discussion and viewing of current screendance films. 

Over the duration of the semester, you will work with your module tutor, peers and visiting filmmakers in the development of the necessary creative, conceptual and technical understandings for making screendance work.  This module runs alongside Dance Making 1 and, in combination, allows you to experiment with live and mediated approaches to making. This is designed to help support your development as a diverse and multi-skilled practitioner.

2. Outline syllabus:

Your module begins by building essential camera and editing skills which you will develop through a series of technical masterclasses. Although this learning is directed, you can accelerate your progress by practising independently outside of your taught-sessions. You can access cameras and access editing facilities via the University online bookings system. 

Alongside the development of your technical and conceptual knowledge, you will take part in a series of creative workshops that get you experimenting with different creative approaches to screendance. As part of this play, we encourage you to adopt a curious, open-minded attitude and to take risks in a supported environment . You will have the opportunity of working closely with your peers as you take turns adopting a variety of roles, including camera operator, editor, and performer. As the module progresses, you will develop the confidence to work more independently on the creation of your own screendance work under the guidance of your module tutor. 

You will also be required to carry out a series of readings that get you thinking about screendance. As part of your critical engagement with the artform, you will view a range of work by professional artists in the field, demonstrating the breadth of global screendance practices.  You will create a presentation that will allow you to share your research and ideas.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Your sessions take place in spaces that are devoted to developing technical and practical knowledge. Your taught sessions are practical in nature and will take place in our dance studios. In addition, some of your provision is taught in specialist spaces that cater to the development of specific skills. For instance, you will have access to edit suites that are equipped with computers and post-production software. You will also have access to other spaces (e.g. Green screen studio, editing suites).  Studying existing screendance works will require you to engage with different online viewing platforms.

Your learning in this module includes tutor-led, student-led and self-directed study. You will have regular feedback during practical sessions and tutorials to support your development in this specialist area.  The University technicians are available to provide a range of support with the software and equipment you will be exploring.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Presentation (1200 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Practical Project

• % Weighting: 70%