Credit Points: 15
Study Time: 150 Hours

This unit provides the opportunity for you to address critical and theoretical issues relevant to progression, to textiles study at a more advanced level. It also encourages you to develop your research and communication skills.

Outline Syllabus

• Major themes and issues of contemporary textiles practice/art/design/media 
• Critical theory and visual culture 
• Development of critical argument, based upon issues within textiles practice 
• Research methodology
• Exploration of potential research themes 
• Literature review: a critical, analytical synopsis of your research 
• Development of reference sources and correct academic protocols including Bibliography (following AUCB academic conventions)

Method of Delivery
Lectures; seminars; research; library research skills tuition; independent study; tutorials.

Aims

A1 To provide the opportunity for advanced study of critical and theoretical issues within textile practice.
A2 To develop your research and written communication skills.
A3 To identify links between your specialist topic and the relevant theoretical and conceptual frameworks.
A4 To establish an understanding of the various processes and methods of research and critical appraisal.
A5 To develop the organisational skills which will enable independent learning and self- management.

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

LO1 Demonstrate your ability to make links between your specialist topic and relevant theoretical/conceptual frameworks.
LO2 Demonstrate the ability to apply research and synthesise information.
LO3 Demonstrate ability to identify, plan, structure and write critical argument in essay.
LO4 Demonstrate the application of organisational skills and evidence of independent learning and self-management.
LO5 Demonstrate confident use of academic protocols.

Reference Material

Key
Bell, J. (1999). Doing your research project. (3rd ed.). Buckingham: Open University Press.
Cooke, A (2001) A guide to finding quality information on the internet: selection and evaluation strategies. London: Library Association.
Gash, S. (1999). Effective literature searching for research. (2nd ed.). Aldershot: Gower Press.
Hart, C. (2001). Doing a literature search. London: Sage.

Recommended
Glatthorn, A. (1998). Writing the winning dissertation. Thousand Oaks, Ca: Corwin Press.
Rudestam, K. (2000). Surviving your dissertation. London: Sage.
Swetnam, D. (1997). Writing your dissertation – how to plan, prepare, and present your work successfully. (2nd ed.). Oxford: Oxford University Press.
William, N. (2001). Your research project. London: Sage.

Additional guidance on primary and secondary sources and other appropriate material will be provided by your tutor and Subject Librarian.