UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD Faculty of Engineering and Informatics School of Media, Design and Technology Programme title: BSc (Hons) Web Design and Technology Awarding & teaching institution: University of Bradford Final and interim awards: Bachelor of Science (BSc) (Honours) [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 6] Diploma of Higher Education (Dip HE) [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 5] Certificate of Higher Education (Cert HE) [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 4] Programme title: Programme accredited by: Duration UCAS code: Subject benchmark statement: Web Design and Technology Creative Skillset 3 years full time; 4 years full-time including a year of study abroad and/or a work placement; 4-6 years part time GW4F BSc/WDT Computing; Art and Design; Communication, Media, Film and Cultural Studies Date produced: May 2002 Last updated : June 2014 Introduction Internet and digital media activities are of growing importance in the UK and internationally, both creatively, economically and socially. As the technologies of computing, media, and telecommunications become increasingly 'enmeshed', graduates who can demonstrate technical knowledge, creative skills, and a critical understanding of the workings of the new media industries are in demand. Your studies at Bradford will help equip you for a career in this fast-moving area. 1
The School of Media, Design and Technology, part of Bradford University s Faculty of Engineering and Informatics (EI), offers student-led undergraduate programmes in digital media, against the backdrop of international research in imaging, multimedia, computer animation, media theory, photography, social media, visualization, digital video, human computer interaction, telecommunications and artificial intelligence. The School has strong links with the BBC and Creative Skillset, the sector skills council for the creative industries and Microsoft. Our partnerships and collaborations provide you with the opportunity to experience interdisciplinary, shared learning within a vibrant, creative environment. Our graduates go on to exciting jobs in the new media industries and many have won awards for their work. Several students have gone on to set up their own businesses in the region (e.g. www.curveagency.com), others work freelance, or have gone on to full time paid employment with a Web Design company such as Technophobia Ltd (www.technophobia.com). Students will graduate with a range of media skills meaning they can respond quickly to a rapidly changing environment and be comfortable producing content across several media. The dynamic team of staff at School of Media, Design and Technology run this programme, in conjunction with our colleagues in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. The School aims to provide a degree programme which will enable you to develop an integrated range of knowledge, understanding and skills in the field of digital media through critical engagement with principles, applications, content design and production practice. Programme Aims The programme is intended to: A1. Develop Media Expertise: empower you to develop and produce a range of creative audio-visual media, but with specialisation in the production of Websites. There is an emphasis on content creation (helping you to produce a strong portfolio of work). A2. Technical Expertise: introduce a variety of programming languages, to enable you to create dynamically-driven websites. The programme also provides you with a broad technical understanding, giving you a distinct advantage when competing for jobs. A3. Critical Reflection: to encourage evaluation, reflection on and analysis of your own work, and the work of others (including structured usability testing). A4. Education for Sustainable Development: help you develop an appreciation of the cultural, political, economic and environmental contexts within which new media are produced and circulated. 2
A5. Provide Transferable Skills: to encourage students to develop a portfolio of appropriate transferable skills and attributes including written skills, presentation, promotion, entrepreneurship, project management and team-work skills. Programme Learning Outcomes When you have completed the BSc programme you will be able to: LO1. apply knowledge and understanding of information and communications technologies and the scientific principles that underpin the underlying hardware and software. LO2. use and develop in major software application packages and scripting languages used in Internet product design, and make informed judgements about which tools to utilise in the context of rapidly developing and converging media industries. LO3. be a competent visual and media designer capable of producing interactive, engaging, original Internet products, applying a holistic approach to design and development. LO4. show an informed understanding of the social, political, cultural, technical, and economic conditions of new media production, distribution, and reception in national and international contexts, including the concepts surrounding sustainability, as these relate to your programme of study. LO5. to analyse and interpret aural, visual, and audio-visual texts including the ability to usability test Websites and mobile applications. LO6. Demonstrate entrepreneurship, capacity to innovate and knowledge of business practices such as the running of small business. On completion of this award at Certificate of Higher Education level, you will be able to: 1. Explain relevant theories, models and principles as they apply to web design industries and institutions; 2. Demonstrate a core underpinning knowledge related to web technology; 3. Collect information, ideas and concepts from recommended sources, organising and referencing them appropriately; 4. Demonstrate an understanding of, and ability to apply, fundamental concepts, principles and theories underpinning web technology and web production to straightforward situations; 5. Work effectively as an individual and in groups being able to communicate ideas and arguments effectively and accurately both orally and in writing; 3
6. Demonstrate development as an independent learner, showing skills of organisation, group working and inquiry; 7. Communicate accurately and reliably with a range of audiences using basic theories and concepts of the subjects of study. On completion of this award at Diploma of Higher Education level, you will be able to: 1. Identify and explain the main theoretical approaches and practices found within web design; 2. Compare and contrast alternative approaches adopted contextualising them in domestic and international social, political, cultural, technical, and economic environments; 3. Ethically gather manage, understand and apply, information on web development, acknowledging the domestic and international social, political, cultural, technical, and economic environments; 4. Adopt and adapt theory and practice to show an advanced understanding of tools, techniques and solutions based relevant to the Web design; 5. Integrate and analyse relevant knowledge and reflect on it; 6. Apply web technologies to desktop and mobile application development Learning; 7. Deploy a range of academic and research skills; 8. Demonstrate stronger project management skills, being able to select and deploy strategies to secure outcomes aiding your development as an autonomous learner; 9. Communicate your ideas and arguments fluently in writing and orally. Although the University does not recruit directly to Ordinary degrees this route is available to students. A Bachelor s degree (Ordinary) is awarded to students who have demonstrated: a systematic understanding key aspects of their field of study, including acquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge informed by aspects of web design and technology. an ability to deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry within web design and technology. conceptual understanding that enables the student: o to devise and sustain arguments, and/or to solve problems, using ideas and techniques. o to describe and comment upon particular aspects of current research, or equivalent scholarship, or practice in web design and technology. an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge. the ability to manage their own learning, and to make use of primary sources. 4
Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: apply the methods and techniques that they have learned to review, consolidate, extend and apply their knowledge and understanding. communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences. And holders will have: the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: o the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility o the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature. Curriculum The map of your studies is detailed further below showing core (C) and optional (O) modules. Each year, or stage, of an Honours programme comprises 2 semesters with 60 credits being studied in each semester. It is also possible to study on this programme on a part time basis over 4 years/ stages, with 80 credits per year/stage being taken. Ordinary degrees comprise 100 credits in each year/stage. Core and optional modules are not shown for Stage 1 of the ordinary programme because this is not available as an entry route. Stage 1 [Level 4] Module Module Title Hons Credits Level Sem Code EM-0152D Higher Learning in Media C 20 4 1 CM-0129D Fundamentals of Internet Technology C 20 4 1 EM-0106D Visual Literacy and Imaging C 20 4 1 EM-0103D Issues in Web Development & Technology C 20 4 2 EM-0240D Multimedia Application Development C 20 5 2 EM-0156D Moving Image Production C 20 4 2 Students who have achieved at least 120 credit points at Level 4 may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education. 5
Stage 2 [Level 5] Module Code EM-0258D Module Title Hon Ord Credits Level Sem Media Ethics, Compliance & Sustainability C C 20 5 1 EM-0359D Design for Mobile Content C C 20 6 1 CM-0315L Computer Communication and Networks C 10+10 5 1&2 CM-0311L SQL: Programming and Administration O 10+10 5 1&2 EM-0266L Web Design & Technology O C 10+10 5 1&2 EM-0268D Professional Web Project C C 20 5 2 EM-0267D Storytelling for Multiple Platforms C C 20 5 2 Students who have achieved at least 120 credit points at Level 5 may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of Diploma of Higher Education. Stage 3 [Level 6] Module Code Module Title Hon Ord Credits Level Sem EM-0369D Creative Media Enterprise C C 20 6 1 EM-0349D Individual Project: Film and Media C C 20 6 1 CM-0358D Cyber Security O 20 6 1 EM-0354D Engaging the Audience O 20 6 1 EM-0317D Production Project Development C C 20 6 2 EM-0344D Production Project Production C C 20 6 2 EM-0327D Production Project Evaluation C C 20 6 2 The curriculum may change, subject to the University's programme approval, monitoring and review procedures Study abroad and work placement opportunities You have the option of working in a media organisation for a year between stages 2 and 3. The department has a placements tutor who can help and advise you about this. More information is available here: http://www.bradford.ac.uk/ei/media-design-technology/business-andoutreach/industry-placements/a number of students also benefit from summer placements or working on live briefs from clients provided by our digital media working academy. This work is often paid so in addition to looking great on your CV, also helps with your finances. You have the option of studying or working abroad for a year between Stages 2 and 3; this option is strongly encouraged. The university s International Office provides a wide range of opportunities and support for students to gain international experience. This option provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience, and is viewed favourably by prospective employers. 6
Teaching and Assessment Strategies You will experience a range of teaching and learning environments. Concepts, principles and theories are generally explored in formal lectures, practised in associated tutorials and seminars, and demonstrated in laboratory classes. Practical skills are developed in laboratory, workshop, and studio sessions. Professional and personal skills are developed through discussion and smallscale project work which involves problem solving and design exercises, often tackled by working in small groups supported by members of academic staff. Project work is used to bring various aspects of your programme together. A particular strength of this programme is the contribution made to the teaching programme by successful practising media professionals. Optional module choices are built into the programme in Stages 2 and 3. This means you can design your speciality to some extent, and choose between a focus on content, web programming or infrastructure specialisms. Each 20 credit module on the programme requires you to commit 200 hours of study. Some of these hours will be formally timetabled - lectures, laboratories, seminars, tutorials and workshops and others will involve you in carrying out personal study or to work in student teams. The balance between these forms of study changes as you pass through the three years of the programme. There are a lot of contact hours (time spent with tutors) in the earlier stages of the programme; the final year is mostly project based, and at this stage you will be expected to manage your own learning, under the general guidance of your tutors. Basic principles and concepts are addressed in the first year (Stage 1) of your studies. In the second year (Stage 2) a more analytical approach is taken, and in the final year (Stage 3) you will have the opportunity to synthesise and critically review the knowledge, understanding, and skills you have gained throughout the programme. You will also have the opportunity to shape elements of your own learning experience, by defining your own project briefs in some areas. Methods of assessment are similarly varied and your progress will be assessed using a mix of formal examinations, presentations and seminar papers, reports, laboratory tests, essays, programme work assignments, and projects. The appropriate method is chosen so that you may demonstrate the particular learning outcomes of each module. The School is committed to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and endeavours to integrate ESD wherever possible into the curriculum. This includes the Level 5 module Media Ethics, Compliance and Sustainability which is designed for this purpose and elements of a number of other modules. Assessment Regulations This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations which are available at the following link: 7
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/ Admission Requirements The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Entrance requirements for each programme will vary but consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience. If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications. The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to contact the programme leader before you apply. Entry requirements: Typical offer (UCAS tariff points): 280 A total of 280 UCAS tariff points, to include 160 points from two full GCE A-Level subjects or equivalent level qualification (e.g. appropriate BTECs) Maths and English GCSE Grade C For international students: minimum IELTS at 6.0 or the equivalent may be required. Students will be invited to attend an interview as part of the selection process. A typical offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS scheme would be 280 points, although this can vary. Students are welcome from a range of academic backgrounds, but some experience of New Media in the broadest sense, is an advantage. Applications are also welcome from mature students (those over 21 years of age on entry) and candidates with non-standard qualifications or who, lacking academic qualifications, have significant relevant experience or a portfolio. On completion of a UCAS form you will be invited to the School for an Open Day when you will have the opportunity to meet staff, view the facilities and discuss the Bradford experience with current students. Learning Resources The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist libraries in the 8
School of Health Studies and the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly. Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and programmerelated materials this way. Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available. Within Media, Design & Technology itself, we have extensive equipment available for its own students which include high-spec PC and MAC suites, a Motion Capture Studio, Stop-motion camera equipment and TV studios. The Media, Design & Technology loans counter enables you to borrow a range of high-end media equipment (still cameras, video equipment, sound recording equipment and mobile devices etc.) Web-space and a range of specialist software are also provided for students. We strongly advise you to visit us, on an open day, and we can show you the high-end kit that is available to our students. Student Support and Guidance Programme Team Support for you personally and in your programme of study, will be provided both by the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal concerns. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries. The Hub, Student Support Centre The Hub, Student Support Centre provides a central reception where students can receive information, advice and guidance on a whole range of topics about their life at University. The Hub is located in the Richmond Building adjacent to the Atrium. 9
The teams located within The Hub: Accommodation Admissions o Education Liaison o Enquiries Student Administration and Support o Bursaries and Financial Support o Finance and Credit Control Group o Payzone o Records and Tuition Fees International Office Customer Service Team www.brad.ac.uk/hub +44 1274 232233 Students Union We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students Union, through a system of programme representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly. The Students Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (based in the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student s Union. Employability and Career Development The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their employability profile and capabilities through learning opportunities embedded within the curriculum. Furthermore, the University is committed to supporting students to develop their commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing a career plan. Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and help to you find part time work, summer work placements, graduate internship programmes and graduate entry vacancies. In addition, some students as part of their programme of study may have the opportunity to complete a Career & Personal Development accredited module delivered by the Career Development Service. 10
All students are encouraged to access Career Development Services at an early stage during their studies and to use the extensive resources available on their web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk. Career Development Services annually undertakes a survey of all graduates to find out their destination six months after graduation. The survey gathers data on the employment and further study routes graduates have entered and a range of other information including job roles, name and location of employers, salary details etc. The survey findings for each programme of study are presented on the programme information pages on the University website and via Career Development Services website www.careers.brad.ac.uk The specific provision on this programme includes a range of networking opportunities and guest speakers from industry. The structure of the programme is designed to enable the creation of a portfolio of work, which will provide an excellent showcase for employers and a significant portion of the third year is given over to an industry style concept, pre-production, production and postproduction process, meaning students will be highly employable as a result of the Web development and concept development skills they have gained. Academic Skills Support For undergraduate students who are looking to improve their marks during their time at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all regardless of degree discipline or level of study. Students can access a programme of interactive workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide range of online and paper based materials for self-study. http://www.bradford.ac.uk/academic-skills/ Disability Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: disabilities@bradford.ac.uk University policies and initiatives Learning and Teaching Our University approach to learning, teaching and assessment is encapsulated 11
by an integrated set of themes and principles within our Curriculum Framework. All of our degree programmes have been designed to provide you with an inclusive and engaging learning environment which gives you the opportunity to thrive and develop in your area of study. Our research-informed programmes have a particular focus on developing your employability. We also place a strong emphasis on collaborative, real-world and enquiry-based learning, supported by appropriate learning technologies. Our assessment is designed not just to measure your achievement, but also to shape and guide your learning through preparing you for the increasing level of challenge as you progress through your degree. Together, these lead to you developing a distinctive set of graduate attributes which will prepare you for life beyond university. Ecoversity: Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development, delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity Further Information: For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact The Admissions Office The University of Bradford Richmond Road Bradford, BD7 1DP UK +44 (0)1274 233054 http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/ The Recruitment and Marketing Office Faculty of Engineering and Informatics The University of Bradford Horton Building Richmond Road Bradford, BD7 1DP UK +44 (0)1274 235963 ei@bradford.ac.uk http://www.bradford.ac.uk/ei/media-designtechnology/courses// The content of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations and course approval, monitoring and review procedures. 12