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Module Descriptions

FLM7006: Research Methods: Creative and Critical Practice (Semester 1)
This module is designed as an introduction to research methods in lens-based practice and scholarship. A range of methodological, critical and practice based issues are covered which are likely to arise in any research project that students might undertake at postgraduate level (including a practice-based project).
The module will explore the nature of creative and critical research methods in Film and Visual Studies and provide an introduction to some of the technical skills needed to tackle creative projects (digital competencies in basic camera and editing operations). It will also include sessions on presentational and organisational skills.
Topics for study include: research methods for creative and critical practice: a methodological overview; models of practice based research; digital competencies; ‘Final Cut Pro’ and editing skills; basic digital camera skills: the video interview; film project research and development: documentary case study; writing proposals. This module will also encourage students to begin concept and development work for their final projects / dissertations and will be particularly mindful of the commissioning context in Irish film.

CEL7047: Advanced Irish Language Skills (Semester 1)
This module will focus on aspects of Irish grammar and syntax, including elements of stylistics and translation, at an advanced (post BA) level. Emphasis will be placed on increased proficiency in written Irish and key issues in translation from English to Irish; the tension between standard and spoken forms of Irish and the relevance and impact of this on style and register.

FLM7008: Film Practice Workshop and Project Development (Semester 2)
This module will focus on script and project development, and on directing and working with actors and camera. There will be a particular emphasis on documentary film (which is also a genre of particular significance in Irish-medium film), on  production planning and management (including risk assessment, formulation of contracts etc.), and on postproduction strategies.

CEL****: Screenwriting & Film Production in the Irish Language (Semester 2)
In this module, students will acquire a thorough appreciation of issues relating to film production and screenwriting in the Irish language through a series of workshops which will involve input from professionals in the industry. They will acquire an appreciation of narrative forms and structures in Irish film and will acquire skills that will equip them with a range of techniques for developing original or adapted screen ideas. There will be a particular emphasis on documentary forms of film in Irish.

CEL7005: MA Dissertation/Creative Project
Students who have attained a pass mark (50%) for the four taught modules may proceed to a dissertation, which constitutes the last two modules of the MA programme. Topics and projects must be discussed in advance with (and approved by) the supervisor. Students can choose to either write a 15, 000 word dissertation on a topic of their choice or, produce a final creative project: a short film (fiction, documentary or experimental) accompanied by a critical essay of 3,500 words. This creative project can be either an individually realised one or an approved group project involving a number of students. In the latter case, the role of each individual student will be clearly defined and a separate and distinct critical essay will be submitted by each student.