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Special Topics in Film Cultures

  • Module code: FM6003
  • Year: 2018/9
  • Level: 6
  • Credits: 30
  • Pre-requisites: None
  • Co-requisites: None

Summary

The special topic is an opportunity for a responsive, research-led module. The specific subject can be defined in relation to a particular staff member's research or may have a more thematic drive drawing on convergent aspects in interests across the staff team.

Aims

  • To explore the idea and theme of the topic across film and related media, in relation to the broader social and political contexts;
  • To analyse the historical and theoretical contexts of the topic under consideration;
  • To mobilise key theoretical principles in the understanding of the topic;
  • To formulate one's own position relative to current research;
  • To demonstrate an awareness of cross-disciplinary knowledge;
  • To problematise and critique the methods and means of knowledge gathering.

Learning outcomes

  • Show tangible evidence of understanding the concepts and themes delivered in the module;
  • Demonstrate proficiency in compiling and delivering a completed body of research, which recognises different forms and practices of knowledge and research;
  • Present a clear and concise critical response to the subject and approach to the module;
  • Argue clearly in relation to themes, perspectives and approaches of the module;
  • Refer to and apply a wide range of theoretical approaches to the subject.

Curriculum content

  • Art cinema, the avant garde and gallery film
  • Adaptation: film, television, literature, comics, video games
  • The horror genre across film and other media
  • Cultural history and cultural icons
  • Posthumanism
  • Animals in film culture

Teaching and learning strategy

The learning and teaching strategy for this module is contingent on the content, approach, style and philosophy of the module. Lectures and seminars will generally form the mainstay of provision but as is appropriate for a research-led module, the strategy will need to be open and responsive.

The module will make use of the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Canvas for communication and dissemination of information between students and staff as well as making online learning materials available to all.

All courses based in the Kingston School of Art offer students free access to the online video tutorial platform Lynda.com. This provides a wide range of subjects to choose from, many with downloadable exercise files, including software tutorials covering photography, graphics, web design, audio and music, CAD and Microsoft Office software, as well as courses on business and management skills. Some of these are embedded in the curriculum and offer additional self-paced learning, others may be taken at will by students wishing to broaden their employability skills in other areas.

Breakdown of Teaching and Learning Hours

Definitive UNISTATS Category Indicative Description Hours
Scheduled learning and teaching Lectures, seminars, workshops 44
Guided independent study Lectures, seminars, workshops 256
Total (number of credits x 10) 300

Assessment strategy

The assessment strategy for this module consists of a research portfolio of 5,000 words. The particular aspects which make up the portfolio will be determined in relation to the content and approach of the teaching as is appropriate for a research-led module.

Mapping of Learning Outcomes to Assessment Strategy (Indicative)

Learning Outcome Assessment Strategy
1) Show tangible evidence of understanding the concepts and themes delivered in the module; Research portfolio
2) Demonstrate proficiency in compiling and delivering a completed body of research, which recognises different forms and practices of knowledge and research; Research portfolio
3) Present a clear and concise critical response to the subject and approach to the module; Research portfolio
4) Argue clearly in relation to themes, perspectives and approaches of the module; Research portfolio
5) Refer to and apply a wide range of theoretical approaches to the subject. Research portfolio

Elements of Assessment

Description of Assessment Definitive UNISTATS Categories Percentage
Research portfolio (5,000 words) Coursework 100%
Total (to equal 100%) 100%

Achieving a pass

It IS a requirement that the element of assessment is passed in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.

Bibliography core texts

Will be determined by the nature and subject of the topic.

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