Module: DRA6004-40 Drama Independent Study

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Olivia Turnbull

Module Tutor Contact Details: O.Turnbull@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module focuses on the development of a complex idea or argument that takes the form of an investigation into a drama-related issue of your choice, subject to the approval of your adviser. It emphasises how to select the best means of investigating an idea and results in a significant artefact that expresses a sustained argument. It also requires evidence of substantial reading and research around your topic, and the citation of relevant academic sources.

This module aims to:

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

• extend your knowledge of your chosen specialist topic

• develop the skills required for originality and creativity of thinking in Drama,

• extend independent skills in independent research, argumentation, structuring, and time management

• foster a positive approach to lifelong learning and career development through expression of ideas relevant to an academic and/or a professional context

2. Outline syllabus:

Prior to the start of the academic year, you will submit a proposed area of study which allows you to be assigned to a supervising tutor. The module begins with a sequence of introductory lectures alongside library skills sessions that prepare students to undertake their dissertation projects.

Your first submission is a project brief/research summary and plan, of approximately 1500 words, plus a bibliography (the bibliography is not included as part of the word count). This is intended as a consideration of your proposed dissertation’s thesis, structure, methodology, and research. As such, while it is not expected that students will have completed all of their research by this point, enough preliminary investigation and knowledge should have been accrued to allow for a clear working title and thesis, and rationale for this line of enquiry. Students’ discussion in this assignment should consider how the various aspects of the research process will inform the development of their thesis. The project brief is to include a working research plan for the dissertation.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

This study module focuses on independent learning, in line with the FHEQ level 6 descriptor. There is some initial lecture delivery around research and planning, but in the main tutor contact is 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 formative assessment is though tutorials and a discussion of a draft project brief.

The summative assessment is the negotiated project brief (or a revised version drawing on research outcomes) and then the final project submission.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Dissertation and project brief (10,000 words)

• % Weighting: 100