+1 862 207 3288 Developing Research Techniques
Purpose of this assignment
This unit will begin to develop your skills at being an active researcher. These skills are transferable from academia to professional work within the media industry.
You will develop an understanding of various types of research and sources of information; and develop the ability to check the validity and accuracy of information.
The skills you develop in this unit will have an impact on every single unit you undertake on this course.
Scenario
You will undertake investigative research into the historical, social, ethical, technological, economical, development and artistic milestones with your chosen industry. It is designed to get you accustomed to research methods and techniques that can be applied to future units.
Your final task (task 3) should look at all of the research you have undertaken for this first term including other units.
Assignment tasks
Task 1: Developing research techniques.
You will submit a research proposal (A), annotated research log (B) and an academic report (C).
You should apply various methods of research and information gathering that can inform your understanding of the historical, social, ethical, technological, economic, developmental and artistic milestones within your chosen industry.
You will begin by creating a research proposal. This can be based around a question, statement or idea but must be developed enough to allow for a wealth of research and investigation.
Your approaches to this research must include the use both primary and secondary methods and consider the qualitative and quantitative approaches to data and information collection.
For each piece of research you should offer discussion and analysis as to its accuracy and validity. This will be presented via an annotated research log.
You will write an academic report based off of your research proposal discussing, analysing and applying critical thought to your research. This must appropriately formatted and supported, accompanied by a reference list.
Task 2: Understanding compliance.
You will prepare and submit a 1000 word essay
You should prepare a short essay (1000 words) that discusses research presentation in terms of law and ethical issues.
This should include reference to:
Legal considerations (defamation, slander, libel, justification, fair comment, privilege, contempt of court, differences in national laws, official secrets act, defence advisory notices).
Copyright (including issues such as licence to use and duplication) Duration of copyright and public domain.
Royalty agencies
Permissions (including filming permissions, auditions and contracts)
Task 3: Evaluating your research and skills
You will submit an evaluation of your research practices for the term.
You should assess and reflect upon the process of your research this is to include all of the units studied so far this term.
This should include some consideration of the strengths and weaknesses of the research process and the validity of your findings. You should spend time and assess the actual methods used and if there are potential issues that caused problems and could be carried out in a different manner in the future. You should also consider the logistics of the work and how well the planned research scheme developed and achieved its goal. As well as considering if ethical issues and legal requirements were followed and adhered to.
