This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
In this module students will undertake field research into the events 'life' of the region. They will analyse local events - analysing and mapping them using critical notions developed in other stage 1 Event and Experience Design modules. Students will first research in breadth, examining the general scene, before choosing a company, locale or event to study in more detail. They will deploy a range of approaches to this research including observation, local news archives, interviews, simple statistical analysis and participation.
This is a module which seeks to develop initiative and self-reliance in the learning environment, encouraging the student to construct their own project and pathways, but with support and guidance appropriate to the level 4 / stage 1 nature of the module. Therefore the module will consist of a number of introductory lectures / seminars contextualising the work and the region and introducing methodologies. After these initial sessions there will be a two-hour tutorial session every two weeks with approximately ten students per tutor group, discussing and presenting their work.
In addition to the prescribed teaching time students will be expected to undertake about 8 hours a week of private study.
The assessment on this module will evaluate initiative, self-management and project management skills; the effectiveness of research methodology; the ability to sift, organise, reflect upon and present the findings of research (orally and in writing); knowledge of the local events culture and its context; professionalism and contribution in the workplace. Additionally students will be assessed on their use of IT, understanding of simple statistical data and ability to present reports effectively. As such the assessment projects and weighting shall be:
Interim group presentation (outlining methods, subjects, sources, strategy and anticipated problems and findings) 40%
Final Project Report (written), 1500 words 40%
Lecture/Seminar Diary and general contribution, preparation and participation to include - preparatory background research for each professional visit, notes taken during their presentation with a short reflection/response to the talk and their role in the events industry. 20%
Reading will be specifically allocated depending upon the case studies chosen.
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will:
1) Be able to conduct a detailed investigation into the events culture and context of the region, and local initiatives and policies that impact on the events culture.
2) Have an increased knowledge of research methodologies and resources.
3) Be able to draw upon previous study to contextualise local research, and relate it to a wider field of practice.
4) Have the ability to investigate, at first hand, contemporary industrial practice.
5) Have an insight into good working methods in actual situations and their contexts through field research.
6) Be familiar with one event or producing company in more detail.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will:
1) Be able to research (using electronic and analogue media), analyse and accurately summarise information from local sources including press, field work, case studies.
2) Be able to draw conclusions from a range of, possibly conflicting, sources, and formulated their own opinions on theoretical and analytical questions.
3) Be able to produce a report that includes descriptive and analytical text, tables and charts, illustrations, statements on methodology.
4) Know how to interact with agencies external to the University while carrying out research.
5) Be able to use information technology for the presentation of ideas (including formatting of documents, setting styles, including graphics).
6) Be able to manage their personal work load, submitting work by deadlines.
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