Module: TFE4005-20 PDP/Research and Development

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Jon Grant

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.grant2@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module focuses on your use of critical evaluation to aid your self-development through reflective practice. It also draws on that critical ability to enable you to develop complex ideas or arguments at an introductory level. It emphasises how to select the best means of investigating and identifying targets for future academic development and career aspirations.

This module aims to:

Provide a collaborative environment in which to develop an area of independent study

Foster a positive approach to lifelong learning and career development

Facilitate the expression of ideas within an academic context

2.Outline syllabus:

You produce a digital portfolio reflective of your subject interests. This Personal Development Portfolio charts your acquisition of skills and subject-specific academic knowledge across the first year of your studies.

To enhance your knowledge and understanding of the wider production process, you map your progress, personal development and subject interests by identifying further areas of research into productions, practitioners, processes, new developments in technology and professional practices. You analyse your learning by defining the skills you have acquired throughout the year (skills that you may still need to acquire) and define measurable and realistic targets.

Through identifying subject specific interests, you also conduct an independent research project based on a relevant subject of your choice. You negotiate a project brief with your tutors.

You must evidence all your work by reading key texts, journals, online materials, interviews with practitioners and evaluation of professional work.

3.Teaching and learning activities

This study module focuses on independent learning. There is lecture delivery around research, PDP and planning, along with tutor contact through advisory tutorials to support the study choice and planning. There are subsequent check-up points. In developing a project brief, you should articulate clearly how you intend to process your learning and manage it over the duration of the module.

The submission is a 2500 word essay for Research and a 2500 word essay for PDP.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Research Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: PDP Journal (2500 words or equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%