Digital Media MA

On this module you will be encouraged to explore how different research methods underpin all kinds of creative practices. The module introduces you to current research themes in art and design. In the past we have explored topics such as: developing concepts through thinking and making, using archives in creative practice, working with objects of material culture, analysing digital transformations, practising psychogeography in the urban environment, tackling the anthropocene and environmental issues of the twenty-first century. As thinkers and practitioners you will work to develop an understanding of the different research approaches you might design and use to enhance and transform your ideas. You will be introduced to a range of practice-led research methods which may include: creative and design thinking, user-centered methods, practice-led approaches, cultural analysis, historical/archival research and market-driven data capture and analysis. The module helps to equip you with a tool kit of research skills to guide you in the development of a project proposal or working brief for your Master's study. The module is made up of lectures, guided seminars and small group tutorials which will support you in building a solid foundation to lead you through your studies.

This practice-led module will introduce you to a range of concepts in digital media that are relevant to artists and designers and to related research at the forefront of contemporary digital media practices. You will develop your own individual digital media research through your practice and work to build relationships and connections between concepts, research and creative innovation. This takes the form of portfolios where you showcase the development of creative concepts in your practice.

This module aims to introduce you to key features of innovation and entrepreneurship within the context of the cultural and creative industries. Depending on your future aspirations we will help you to build your knowledge and understanding of different approaches to creative innovation (social, ethical and sustainable aspects), provide guidance on business start-ups, and assist you in your professional skills development (commercial awareness, self-management, problem-solving, team working, communication strategies), including searching for marketing, promotion, consultancy and funding opportunities specific to your subject. The module involves lectures, seminars and practical projects where you will experiment with the tools and techniques of creative innovation. There will be opportunities for group projects and cross-disciplinary working on this module.

This practice-led module will aim to help you to question and develop the parameters of your digital media skills through a range of different processes suited to specific concepts and contexts. You will produce a body of practical work supported by specialist workshops, on the expanded field of digital media in the creative and cultural industries. Digital media technologies are contributing to the production of new modes of working, collaboration and exchange. These approaches will provide you with an opportunity to develop a framework of core processes for your project ideas. You will be encouraged to push the conceptual direction of your project through an engagement with the different processes of digital media prototyping and production. This takes the form of creative portfolios where you showcase the development of key processes informing your practice.

The major project module builds on your development work in previous modules to culminate in the realisation of your ideas. You will select a 'Major' or 'Minor' weighted approach to your project which will allow you to pursue an 'academic/written' or 'practice/led' focus to your submission. You will revisit your project proposal to develop a final stage framework to help realise your intended outcomes. This could include a group project subject to negotiation with your specialist supervisor.