VA7008 - Work Placement

The module begins with two initial seminars, and will conclude with a final group sharing and analysis session. At the core of this module is an eight week work-based experience within a cultural or creative industry organisation or practice. You will (1) participate in and observe management and systems within the working environment, and (2) develop or conceptualise an outcome-focused project of relevance to the organisation. We feature technology-enhanced, group and one-on-one approaches to teaching & learning, emphasising student-centred and practical activities. Technology is central to this process as a tool supporting the everyday learning activities (through audio and visual materials, discussion boards, collaborations, blogs and student websites), which offers equal opportunities for both Campus and Distance Learning students.

Your module tutor will play an active role in guiding you through initial module sessions, e-learning resources and one-on-one electronic and academic tutorial support. The tutor will also be available for one-on-one support during the work-based component of the programme. All course materials will be made available on the relevant module e-Learning Portal sites.

At Department and Faculty level, the Student Administration and Support Centre (SASC) provides a place to ask questions (eg. regarding timetables, late submissions and personal extenuating circumstances). SASC will refer you to the correct university service if it cannot directly help you.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowldge & Understanding:
1. Selection of an appropriate host organisation
2. Critical consideration of the strategic aims, management structures and operating modes of the identified organisation.

Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities:
1. Effective working within the host organisation, based on an acquired understanding of their organisational aims, needs and structures
2. A professional report outlining contributions made to the organisation and an awareness of own further developmental needs

Personal Values Attributes:
1. The ability to interrogate and understand a cultural organistion's practices and processes, and determining appropriate ways to contribute to those.

FORMATIVE
Formative assessment will be carried out throughout the initial and final seminar sessions where students will discuss literature, issues and themes pertinent to cultural and creative industries aimed at all four Knowledge and Skills MLOs. Peer and tutor feedback, and self-reflection, will encourage Personal Values attributes of sensitivity, ethics and curiosity.

SUMMATIVE
The summative assessment will be a 5000 word (100%) essay/report that demonstrates and elaborates all MLOs in the synthesis of theory to practice.

VA7006 or VA7007 (or approved equivalents)

none

Please find details of this module in the other sections provided