Module Details

Module Code: DESI8010
Title: Visual Culture: Final Thesis
Long Title: Visual Culture: Final Thesis
NFQ Level: Advanced
Valid From: Semester 2 - 2017/18 ( January 2018 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 2140 - Design Studies
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: In this module the student is guided through the development and final presentation of a scholarly thesis. The student is encouraged to apply visual analysis and discussion as well as theory in a substantial and critical examination of a topic chosen by themselves within the area of visual culture, which focuses mainly on the social role of practices such as graphic design, typography, film, photography, architecture, interiors and illustration.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Develop and refine an argument to an advanced level based on detailed analysis of relevant visual and textual examples
LO2 Critically assess the validity of an argument as it is developing
LO3 Present an argument and resultant conclusions in a clear and coherent manner, and in line with international academic conventions and professional standards of presentation
LO4 Display the capability for self-directed learning and independent thought
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Visual Culture: Thesis 1
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
none
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
none
 
Indicative Content
Analysis
The application of critical skills in the analysis of visual and textual source material.
Ideas and argument
The development, assessment and refinement of a sophisticated and critical argument.
Conclusion
Drawing conclusions and ensuring a final thesis which is clear, focussed, coherent and well structured.
Presentation
Presenting a complete and sophisticated piece of work which complies with international academic conventions and with professional standards of presentation.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Performance Evaluation % of Total Mark 15
Timing Week 6 Learning Outcomes 2,4
Assessment Description
Meeting of requirements in the submission of working drafts, which should provide a clear sense of the ongoing development of the student's knowledge and ideas, as well as continuous engagement with feedback.
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 70
Timing Week 11 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
Thesis
Assessment Type Presentation % of Total Mark 15
Timing Week 12 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
A presentation, which includes a Q&A session, made to a small class group.
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Tutorial Contact One-to-one guidance Every Week 0.50 0.5
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Thesis research and writing Every Week 6.50 6.5
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 0.50
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Bryan Greetham. (2014), How to Write Your Undergraduate Dissertation (Palgrave Study Skills) P, Palgrave Macmillan, [ISBN: 9781137389763].
  • Stella Cottrell. (2011), Critical Thinking Skills: Developing Effective Analysis and Argument (Palgrave Study Skills), Palgrave Macmillan, [ISBN: 9780230285293].
  • Jeanne Godfrey. (2013), How to Use Your Reading in Your Essays (Palgrave Study Skills), Palgrave Macmillan, [ISBN: 9781137294685].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Ellie Chambers. (2008), The Arts Good Study Guide, Open University Worldwide, p.400, [ISBN: 0749217081].
  • Charles Lipson. (2007), How to write a BA thesis, University of Chicago Press, [ISBN: 978-022648126].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_DVICO_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Visual Communications 8 Group Elective 1