Module: JPU6105-20 In-Depth Investigations

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Irving Huerta

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.huertazapien@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module guides you in laying the groundwork for the successful completion of an in-depth investigation. This is an opportunity to carry out an investigation into an issue or industry sector in your chosen field of interest such as environment, health, food, inequality, discrimination and under-representation. In the context of the link between democracy and freedom of the press, you will examine case studies to consider the challenges and risks faced by journalists (and their publications), the importance of rigour in gathering and fully documenting evidence, and the checks placed upon journalists by editorial and industry standards, ethics, and the law.

Initially, you will identify an area of personal interest and, through scoping desk research, develop a question you would like to address. You will then carry out desk and primary research to understand more about your topic and to identify possible original material and angles, as well as potential legal and ethical issues. You will learn how to develop a well-structured, clearly planned personal project. You will also fact-check and edit your work carefully to ensure it would not expose you to a legal or ethical challenge.

2. Outline syllabus:

• Research methodology and ethics

• Literature review

• Primary and secondary industry sources

• Presentation of research

• Project planning and management

• Regulatory guidelines, legal, ethics, privacy (and media watchdogs)

• Editorial guidelines

• Scoping a topic of interest to identify a question for investigation and the assessment of challenges and risks

• Specialist knowledge of a field (e.g. food industry, environment, health)

• Research techniques

• Available sources (e.g. open/public; FOI, interviews, specialist research)

• Keeping research records, confidentiality and information security

• Fact checking

• Balancing evidence and storytelling

• Effective publication strategy

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Learning will be through blended delivery comprising a mix of online and face-to-face learning. Activities include workshops, tutor-supported individual or group project work, progress reviews and feedback. Teaching and Learning resources include technical demonstrators and specialist facilities; Library learning resources, online library resources/ access to international trade and academic journals and reference works; and websites.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Personal Investigation Project (5,000 word equivalent)

• % Weighting: 100%