AUCB Study Abroad

Animation Research and Critical Theory

Study Abroad Animation Production Course Modules

Credit Points: 15
Study Time: 150 Hours

This unit introduces you to the relationship between theory and practice within Animation Production. It underpins and links with all other animation units in your chosen course. Animation Research and Critical Theory provides a strong foundation for your studies by enabling you to develop research and study skills within relevant critical and theoretical frameworks. 

In this unit you will become an active learner, working both independently and collaboratively. This unit will prepare you for more advanced levels of research and study in the following unit Contextualising the Art of Animation. 

You will develop an awareness and understanding of related key themes and issues, (e.g. notions of gender, identity, race) placed within relevant social, historical and cultural contexts.

Outline Syllabus
An indicative guide to the content covered in this unit.
  • Introduction to research and study skills using traditional and electronic sources. 
  • An introduction to the role of critical theories, concepts and analysis. 
  • Investigation of historical and contemporary practice within your specialism, analysed within relevant contexts.
To be an efficient learner you will need to acquire and develop the necessary research and study skills, including note taking, essay and report writing, academic referencing, reading styles, time management, team work, presentations and research methodologies.

Method of Delivery
Lectures, seminars, group and individual tutorials, workshops, educational visits as appropriate.

Aims

A1 To introduce you to the major themes and issues related to animation production.
A2 To develop your ability to reference sources using correct academic protocols.
A3 To improve your written communication and presentation skills.
A4 To enable you to evaluate and reflect on your own progress.

Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit you will be able to:

LO1 Demonstrate an understanding of the major themes and issues as related to animation production.
LO2 Demonstrate reference sources using correct academic protocols.
LO3 Demonstrate written communication and presentation skills.
LO4 Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and reflect on your own progress.

Reference Material
The selection of books will vary according to your individual interests and chosen area of study. Unit tutors will provide you with guidance regarding key and recommended reference material.

Key
Barnard, M. (2001) Approaches to understanding visual culture. London: Palgrave. 
Barnes, R. (1995) Successful study for degrees. London: Routledge. 
Storey, J. (2000) Cultural theory, popular culture: a reader. Harlow, Essex: Prentice Hall 
Thomson, A. (1996) Critical reasoning – a practical introduction. London: Routledge.

Recommended
Mirzoeff, N. (1999) An introduction to visual culture. London: Routledge.
Northedge, A. (1990) The good study guide. Milton Keynes: Open University Press. 
Strinati, D. (1996) An introduction to theories of popular culture. London: Routledge. 
Walker, J. A, and Chaplin, S. (1997) Visual culture: an introduction. Manchester: Manchester University Press.

site by Base Creative Agency © 2012 AUCB Study Abroad. All rights reserved. The Arts University College Bournemouth, Fern Barrow, Wallisdown, Poole BH12 5HH