Module manager: Joanne Armitage
Email: J.L.Armitage@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module supports students through the process of developing a self-directed digital research project which is informed by, and contextualised within, relevant theoretical issues and debates. Students will conduct critical research, develop a proposal document, communicate their ideas, develop prototypes, create a final digital outcome and critically reflect on and evaluate their work. All aspects of this process should be informed by relevant research devised by the student. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
This module guides students through the process of developing critical, creative and research-led practice. Students will self-direct (with support where required) a project, first developing a proposal that outlines project concepts, shares planning materials and ethical consideration. Through the year, students will focus on the design, development and realisation of creative practical work. The project can take a research, technical or creatively led approach, but must be informed by key debates in the field of digital media in its conceptual focus and/or use of relevant tools, techniques and practices. Finally, students will reflect critically on their practice and communicate their work through appropriate methods.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Conduct digital media research to inform the conceptual development, testing and evaluation of a digital media project.
2. Design, develop and communicate a substantive digital media project alongside relevant materials including, documentation and ethics.
3. Critically reflect on digital media design work.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
4. Identify and use relevant resources to plan and develop practical work.
5. Communicate ideas effectively through appropriate digital media and design methods.
6. Critically combine concepts, theories and practice to produce research-informed creative and written outcomes.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 6 | 0.5 | 3 |
| Practical Demonstration | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Lecture | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Seminar | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Private study hours | 382 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 18 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 400 | ||
Students will work independently throughout the year, conducting research, preparing for their presentations, producing project documentation, and developing the product itself, solving problems that arise during the production process. The student will arrange meetings with their supervisor to receive feedback on their progress.
Student progress will be monitored through regular supervision meetings.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Project | Project proposal document | 20 |
| Presentation | Demonstration of practical outcome | 10 |
| Practical | Final project outcome and supporting materials | 70 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Proposal – revise and resubmit Practical – revise and resubmit Demonstration – record a short video demonstration that meets the assessment criteria
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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