Programme Specification BSc (Hons) Sound Technology and Digital Music Valid from: September 2012 Faculty of Technology, Design and Environment
SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION Awarding body: Teaching institution and location: Final award: Programme title: Interim exit awards and award titles: Brookes course code: UCAS/UKPASS code: JACS code: Mode of delivery: Mode/s of study: Language of study: Relevant QAA subject benchmark statement/s: External accreditation/recognition: (applicable to programmes with professional body approval) Faculty managing the programme: Date of production (or most recent revision) of specification: Oxford Brookes University Oxford Brookes University BSc (Hons) Sound Technology and Digital Music CertHE, DipHE & BSc SY J930 BSc/SY J930 Face-to-face Full-time, part-time English Engineering (2010), Computing (2007) and Music (2008) Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Technology, Design and Environment May 2012 SECTION 2: OVERVIEW AND PROGRAMME AIMS 2.1 Rationale for/distinctiveness of the programme The technology of sound is an exciting and rapidly expanding field of engineering that now interfaces with many other aspects of media production. To understand and join in this revolution students will study topics such as sound recording and production, music and electro-acoustic composition, studio design, video production and computing. However, the aim is not simply to educate students in separate disciplines, but to foster a genuinely interdisciplinary approach. For this reason, the course also incorporates modules in electronics, digital audio, e-music, video production, and business management. This places the course at the forefront of audio technology and provides students with the experience and expertise needed to build a career in
the diverse professional audio world. Graduates from this course will be knowledgeable and technically skilled in audio technology. 2.2 Aim/s of the programme. The Sound Technology and Digital Music programme combines modules from the areas of Electronics, Computing and Music with a view to providing an education in technologies that will enable graduates from this course to work as operators, support engineers, technicians or managers in the music industry. SECTION 3: PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES On completion of the programme students will be able to: 3.1 Academic literacy A1 A2 A3 A4 evaluate hardware for multimedia systems through an understanding of core concepts of electronics as applied in the audio industry critique and compare modern music forms and composition evaluate broadcast multimedia systems by considering methods of communication of sound, image and video data analyse and design multimedia systems using principles of data acquisition, conversion, manipulation, reproduction and display especially as applied to sound, image and video data 3.2 Research literacy B1 B2 B3 experiment with and evaluate data processing techniques - compression, transmission and editing particularly as applied to audio and image data analyse, evaluate and compare foundations, techniques, limitations, developments, trends and applications of those areas of computing most relevant to sound processing design and experiment with electronic test equipment and in simple electronics manufacture 3.3 Critical self-awareness and personal literacy C1 C2 evaluate personal performance in applying theory to practice in the use of Sound Technology and Digital Music equipment develop and reflect on a set of professional skills based on management issues involved in running a media business 3.4 Digital and information literacy D1 D2 contribute to video and audio production including the application of planning, acquisition and editing techniques using modern digital equipment plan, design and generate computer software and algorithms using appropriate methods, techniques and tools
D3 produce high quality output using the latest software tools for sound synthesis, special effects, audio restoration, etc 3.5 Global citizenship E1 E2 plan and evaluate the deployment of technology relevant to the discipline in one major area of application, recognizing the global nature of the market for such technologies appreciate the role of arts in society through contribution to international cultural development and understanding SECTION 4: PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND CURRICULUM 4.1 Programme structure and requirements: Level 4 Compulsory modules: U08003 Programming the Virtual World (15 credits) U08600 Basic Maths (alternative compulsory: 15 credits) U08607 Maths for Information Technologies (alternative compulsory: 15 credits) U08800 Video Production (15 credits) U08801 Electronics for Media Applications (15 credits) U08802 Introduction to Sound Recording (15 credits) U08805 Electronic Product Design (15 credits) U66001 Introduction to Contemporary Composition (15 credits) The recommended modules are: U08002 The Human Dimension (15 credits) U08702 Multimedia IT Skills (15 credits) U66002 Film and Popular Music: Listening Skills (15 credits) U66004 University Music Performance (15 credits) Level 5 Compulsory modules: U08822 Communications and Networks for Media (15 credits) U08825 Controlling Sound and Light (15 credits) U08840 Digital Audio (15 credits) U08842 Advanced Audio Production Techniques (15 credits) U08860 Advanced Video Production (15 credits) Compulsory component of Degree/Honours degree for Sandwich mode students only: U08085 Work Experience Placement (taken without credit) Acceptable modules: U08038 The Human Computer Interface (15 credits) U08050 Multimedia Applications Design (15 credits) U08054 Web Design (15 credits) U08185 Work Experience in Computing (15 credits) U08821 Digital Modelling (15 credits) U08823 Audio Electronics (15 credits)
U08868 Independent Study I (15 credits) U66021 Electroacoustic Composition (30 credits) U66023 Contemporary Musical Culture (30 credits) U66024 Ensemble Performance (30 credits) U66029 E-Music (15 credits) Alternative acceptable modules: No more than 30 credits from: U61513 Intermediate B in French (15 credits) U61514 French Core Language I A (15 credits) U61515 French Core Language I B (15 credits) U61522 French Core Language II (30 credits) U62513 Intermediate B in Italian (15 credits) U63012 Japanese 2 A (15 credits) U63013 Japanese 2 B (15 credits) U63022 Japanese 3 A (15 credits) U63023 Japanese 3 B (15 credits) U63513 Intermediate B in Spanish Semester 2 (15 credits) U63514 Spanish Core Language I A Semester 1 (15 credits) U63515 Spanish Core Language I B Semester 2 (15 credits) U63522 Spanish Core Language II (30 credits) Semesters 1 and 2 Level 6 Compulsory modules: U08880 Professional Practice in Media Production (for IET accreditation only) (15 credits) U08882 TV News Production (30 credits) U08886 Studio Design (15 credits) U08895 Project (45 credits) - alternative compulsory U08899 Project (30 credits) - alternative compulsory Acceptable Level 6 (Honours) modules: U08088 Independent Study II (15 credits) U08884 Image Technology (15 credits) U08870 Digital Animation and Visual Effects (15 credits) U08871 Advanced Digital Audio (15 credits) U08981 Embedded Systems Development (15 credits) 4.2 Professional requirements The programme is accredited in its entirety by the Institute of Engineering and Technology. SECTION 5: PROGRAMME DELIVERY 5.1 Teaching, Learning and Assessment Staff teaching is conducted through a range of approaches: formal lectures, more informal lectures featuring in-class discussions, seminars and problem-solving sessions, practical assignments and laboratory explorations, group design exercises, tutorials for groups or individuals. Most of the modules are taught through several of these approaches, thus ensuring a varied learning environment. The normal class time for each module (15 CATS credits) is 36 hours and the total study time for each module is 150 hours. Each of the teaching methods is particularly suited to
fostering specified module learning outcomes, although other learning outcomes may be delivered by the method in question. Specific Graduate Attributes within the discipline are developed through delivery of modules which focus on the core body of knowledge and skills within the programme. In the first year Graduate Attributes are introduced and with the choice of modules in level 5 and 6 the Graduate Attributes are more fully refined and developed. Students are given the opportunity to attend lectures and labs which develop their knowledge and skills in order to fulfil the coursework requirements. Module Assessment criteria and module outlines are given to each student. Lectures are particularly used to furnish the foundations and framework that will enable the students to attain the knowledge and understanding of outcomes for the module, and also where appropriate some of the professional and transferable skills. Seminars and problem-solving sessions reinforce student acquisition of the knowledge and learning outcomes of the module. They also prepare the students for assessed work and reinforce students ability to problem solve. Practical assignments and laboratory explorations further reinforce the process of acquisition of knowledge and understanding, but are also pivotal for the development of the majority of the disciplinary/professional skills. Group design exercises prepare the students for teamwork, development of interpersonal skills, working to deadlines, independent thinking and ability to organise self. Tutorials are used to give formative and summative feedback on assessed work, in alignment with the Brookes Assessment Compact, to support student understanding of the learning outcomes of the module and to help students to improve their future work... Feedback is given in both written and verbal form, and students confidence is enhanced through the requirement to give presentations at various stages throughout the programme in a number of different modules. Assessment is conducted through a variety of methods, the two main components being unseen examination and coursework. There are three main strategies for assessment in the programme: 70% exam & 30% coursework 50% exam & 50% coursework 100% coursework Typically examinations last for two hours although some double modules have examinations of three hours' duration. The strategy of assessment of learning outcomes is described in each module syllabus where the balance between analytic, design and creative skills, as well as personal development and professional skills, is outlined. For the coursework a large variety of assignments are used, depending upon the subject. The type of assignment set is described in the syllabus, but will include tasks such as: 1. oral presentations; 2. essays; 3. computer programs; 4. short videos or documentaries; 5. short design studies; 6. problem sheets; 7. short tests done in class; 8. write-ups of laboratory experiments;
9. write-ups of more extended laboratory exercises(mini-projects); 10. extended reports (dissertations). All first year (level 4) modules have an element of continuous assessment, and some are 100% coursework assessed. Coursework and continual assessment are regarded as most important in the development of powers of understanding and application. The assessment of the majority of year 2 modules is largely based upon written examinations, but with a small (usually 30%) coursework element. However, for the Project the assessment is based solely upon coursework. Modules offered by Music are normally 100% coursework assessed. 5.2 Assessment regulations The programme conforms to the Oxford Brookes Undergraduate Modular Programme Regulations. SECTION 6: ADMISSIONS 6.1 Entry criteria Typical offers: A-level: grades BBC or equivalent IB Diploma: 30 points Advanced Diploma: Engineering, Creative Media or Information Technology at grade B, including A- level Science at grade C BTEC National Diploma with 2 distinctions and 1 merit A-levels should preferably include a science subject. Specific entry requirements: GCSE: grade B minimum in Mathematics, and English Language grade C minimum Students should also have demonstrable musical ability or aptitude, for example a grade C or higher at GCSE Music, or Grade 5 or above in a musical instrument or music theory examination. Alternatively, equivalent musical experience may be shown by audition or by submitting a demonstration recording of your musical performance. Please also see the university's general entry requirements. Overseas students must meet the University IELTS English Language requirements. For details for the University s English Language requirements see: http://www.brookes.ac.uk/international/apply/english/.
6.2 CRB checks Not normally required SECTION 7: STUDENT SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE During induction week, students are given handbooks and other documentation explaining the choices available to them on the programme, and how the systems at Oxford Brookes work. The Programme Lead, Subject Coordinators and Academic Advisors are available for consultation as are the Student Support Coordinators (SSCs). Throughout the programme, module and dissertation handbooks alongside online resources available through the virtual learning environment provide a great deal of guidance for students. In addition, they can get help and guidance from their Programme Lead, Subject Coordinator, Academic Advisor (for first years) and the department s Student Support Coordinators. They can also get module specific advice from the Module Leader and any of the staff teaching on the relevant module. At the University level, there are dedicated support services both for specific groups of students such as Oxford Brookes International and the Disability Advisory Service and for all students such as Upgrade - our study skills development/support service. A full range of support services is offered to students seeking graduate roles, and to those looking for placements. Support includes placement officers, career advisors and counsellors, and all students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities. SECTION 8: GRADUATE EMPLOYABILITY Previous graduates are currently working as recording studio engineers, sound editors for film and TV, multimedia producers, technical sales and support engineers within the industry. As is typical within the media and music production industry, graduates are self-employed and many of our graduates work for different clients in this manner. Some graduates have found employment with larger companies such as Avid Technology and the BBC (both in production and research and development roles). SECTION 9: LINKS WITH EMPLOYERS Brookes is the only British University that has a link with Meyer Sound Laboratories. Each year Meyer Sound Laboratories gives a week long seminar on sound system optimisation, and are investigating further educational opportunities. Major music and film industry manufacturer Solid Stage Logic have had a representative on the Industrial Advisory Board for a number of years, and have had valuable input into the programme. We have had an educational partnership with Avid Technology, and are in the process of migrating to their new educational programme which includes exclusive teaching resources. SECTION 10: QUALITY MANAGEMENT Indicators of quality/methods for evaluating the quality of provision The course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). The programme adheres to National Benchmark statements in Engineering, Computing and Music.
Apart from this process the indicators of quality are: Programme Annual and Periodic Review; Annual evaluation of the course by the External Examiner; Feedback from students in the annual module evaluations; Student retention rate; Reports of external quality auditing bodies; Employment success rate of the students who gain the BSc; Feedback obtained from the Telecommunications or networking companies who employ our students Each programme has at least one student representative. These are voted into position by the students on the programme and provide a mechanism for issues and concerns to be fed back through the department s committee structure. Student representatives sit on departmental committees concerned with programme management and course development and also attend monthly student forums which are meetings specifically designed for the representatives to bring forward student concerns.