The module introduces students to the contexts, conventions and dynamics of academic writing in the media and communications field. As a module open to the Photography programme it situates the ability to access, evaluate and produce academic writing as a critical component in a broader media education that is both informed by media practice and shapes media practice. Students will engage with critical academic texts that inform our understanding of media, engage in practices of critical reviewing of texts, develop strategies for disciplined reading and draw upon those practices to produce their academic writing on media and communication. The module will link to the modules that students take in their first semester and allow direct application of their learning to that module.
Introduction to Academic Writing
Outline of the structure, objectives, assessments and activities of the module.Outline of the academic study of media/culture/photography;Quick tips for academic writing.
The Structure, Content and Purposes of Academic Writing
Identification of the questions that academics ask and the problems they try to solve An introduction to the strategies of academic writing and forms and conventions in the field linked to planning, presentation, style, referencing, re-drafting and formatting.
Reading the Media/Communications Studies Field:
Identifying different rhetorical styles of academic writing (expository, persuasive, descriptive) and appropriate modes of interpretation. Understanding established and new academic traditions that build upon theoretical, conceptual and methodological traditions of media inquiry.
Reviewing the Literature
How to approach the review of literature for an essay assignment. Accessing, evaluating and synthesising texts. Library Session : Academic Resources
Critical Thinking
Understanding critical thinking, Recognising it in other work Integrating it into the overall writing process Library Session : Critical Reading
The Writing Process:
The creative process of writing; Using peer review and collaborative writing; Introduction to Bolton’s three-step theory of writing.
Grammar, Sentences and Paragraphs:
An overview of basic grammatical concepts; Elements of sentence structure including punctuation; The purpose of paragraphs and the process of putting paragraphs together.
Sources and Referencing:
How to handle critical sources in assessment texts The purpose and importance of referencing; referencing styles and in-text reference use.
Proofreading/Editing/Redrafting:
Techniques for editing and proofreading; Meeting word counts and making selections based on persuasive arguments, analysis and evidence.
This module is delivered in person in classroom setting through a combination of lectures, discussions and practical assignments.
There are two assignments for this module.
1. A journal review and comparison essay.
2. A journal paper to be written on a choice of 3 preassigned topics related to the gaming industry.
Topics covered include, Easy writing, planning and reading techniques, citation, referencing and finding literature.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |