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BA (Hons) Animation

COURSE GUIDE 2016/7 This Course is delivered in partnership with Coláiste Dhúlaigh

College of Further Education and the Faculty of Arts at the University of Wolverhampton

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About this guide Welcome Course Management and Staff Involved with the Course Course Structure About the Course Contact Hours University Academic Calendar Timetables Student Voice Student Feedback Student Charter Engagement The Wolverhampton Graduate External Examiners Academic Regulations Exam Regulations Course Information Personal Tutor Academic Misconduct Student Support Where to Get Help with your Course Extensions, Extenuating Circumstances and Leave of Absence Health and Safety Issues Health and Wellbeing whilst using your computer Progression for Further Study

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Alumni About this guide This Course Guide has been designed to help you plan your course. You are encouraged to read this Guide through now. It will be a considerable advantage to you to be familiar from the outset with the various aspects of your studies that are described. It may be that the relevance of some of the sections will not be immediately obvious. Keep it somewhere accessible, so that you can refer to it as needed. Obviously even in a document like this we have not covered every query and problem that you might have about the course. The Course Guide should be read in conjunction with the Undergraduate Student Guide / Postgraduate Student Guide; the TNE Student Charter ; the University’s Policies and Regulations and the University Assessment Handbook. These documents should provide you with all the basic information that we think you will need for your period of study here. If you find that there is something you need to know, please contact your Academic Team Office or Student Centre on the details included below.

Please enter the contact details for your Personal Tutor for your future reference:

----------------------------------------------------- The name of your Personal Tutor will be given to you at the beginning of your course and can be checked via e:Vision

Your local Academic Team Office is:

Kevin White, Academic Contact Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education, Barryscourt Road, Coolock, Dublin 17 Email: kwhite@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Tracy Staunton, Course Leader Email: tstaunton@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Tanya Lennon, Administrator Email: tanya.lennoncdcfe@gmail.com Tel: 01 848 1400

Your University of Wolverhampton Academic Team Office is:

University of Wolverhampton Faculty of Arts, George Wallis Building, MK517 Tel: +44 1902 323220

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Your local Student Centre is:

Part-time & Evening School Office (contact: Pat Garvan, Principal) Tel: 00353 1 848 1400 Opening times 5.30pm - 9.30pm Monday & Tuesday 8.30am - 5.00pm Wednesday-Friday. These times may vary throughout the academic year

Your University of Wolverhampton Student Centre is: TNE = S.T.a.R Office

University of Wolverhampton Lesley Barlow - TNE Programmes Administrator STaR Office MX103, City Campus Teaching & Administration Building Camp Street Wolverhampton WV1 1AD Tel: +44 1902 321102 e-mail: Lesley.Barlow@wlv.ac.uk

Please note that in order to develop and improve the Course, it may be necessary on occasions to amend or revise the details given in this Course Guide. We are pleased to hear your views and welcome suggestions for ways of improving the operation of the Course. Welcome On behalf of the Course Management Team I should like to extend to you a very warm welcome and wish you every success in your studies with the University of Wolverhampton. The University experience and academic success is all about the effort you put into learning and making the most of the wide range of opportunities available to you. We welcome students who are eager to think for themselves, to take control of their own learning and who are ready to get involved in developing the skills required in a highly competitive job market. This course is delivered in partnership with Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education, As you will be studying at a distance from the University you will need to demonstrate good time management skills, independent learning, flexibility and discipline in order to achieve a study-work-life balance. But remember, we are here to support you even if you never have to come on to a University of Wolverhampton campus - see www.wlv.ac.uk/distance for further details. We believe it is important that you are encouraged to make your own contribution to the effective operation and development of your chosen course. We are, therefore, keen to hear your views and would welcome any suggestions that you may have about ways of improving any aspect of your course and/or the student experience here at the University.

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Course Leader – Tracy Staunton Email: tstaunton@cdcfe.com Link Tutor – Tracy McCoy Email: T.Mccoy@wlv.ac.uk Academic Contact - Kevin White Email: kwhite@cdcfe.com Course Management and Staff Involved with the Course Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education Tracy Staunton – Course Leader Email: tstaunton@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Richard Glynn Email: rglynn@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Ed Smith Email: esmith@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Kevin Lynch Email: klynch@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Michelle Phelan Email: mphelan@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Kevin White – Lecturer Email: kwhite@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Tanya Lennon – Administrator Email: tanya.lennoncdcfe@gmail.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Denise Doyle – Contact in Respect of Students with Disabilities Email: cdguidance@gmail.com Tel: 01 848 1400 University of Wolverhampton Tracy McCoy – Link Tutor Email: T.McCoy@wlv.ac.uk Tel: +44 1902 322202 Support Staff at University of Wolverhampton

Comment [DD1]: Tracy – can you check the staff details here are correct please?

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Student Enabling Centre Email: sec@wlv.ac.uk Tel: +44 1902 321074 Lesley Barlow – TNE Programmes Administrator STaR Office, City Campus & Administration Building, MX103 Email: Lesley.Barlow@wlv.ac.uk Tel: +44 1902 321102 Deborah Dallison - Partnerships Administrator City Campus, Faculty of Arts, George Wallis Building, MK517 Email: deborah.dallison@wlv.ac.uk Tel: + 44 1902 322090 Tom Hicks - Academic Resource Librarian Harrison Learning Centre, City Campus Email: t.j.hicks@wlv.ac.uk Tel: +44 1902 322377 Course Structure for Undergraduate courses Students will study: Full-time: normally modules worth 120 credits each academic year Part-time: normally modules worth no more than 80 credits each academic year.

Level 6 Semester 1 Semester 2

Core 6DM022 Animation Research and Practice 40 Core 6DM029 Animation

Production 40

Core 6DM016 Professional Animation Project 20 Option 6DM028 Professional

Development 20

Option 6MZ021 Placement Module 20

About the Course This Guide outlines the modules which are available, teaching and learning activities and assessment tasks. If there is anything you need to discuss further, please contact At Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education Tracy Staunton – Course Leader At University of Wolverhampton Tracy McCoy - Link Tutor

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The educational aims of the course are: Animation is an exciting creative process that crosses many boundaries; Animation graduates have skills that are sought after in the Animation, Visual Effects and Games industries. The Animation industry continues to grow year on year, and holds exciting opportunities for those seeking a career in the creative world of moving image. The BA (Hons) Animation course helps you explore animation and discover the areas you are most passionate about; we encourage you to follow your instincts and identify your creative potential. This course prides itself on nurturing ‘Creative Employable Thinkers’. During your studies, you will develop industry standard skills in a creative environment with likeminded students and enthusiastic staff. Animation combines the skills of a visual artist with the ability of film language and storytelling. The BA (Hons) Animation course seeks to develop individuals who are interested developing professional techniques in the following areas: Drawing (how to observe and communicate), ideas generation, story design, script writing, storyboarding, character design, character animation, principles of animation, production design, concept art, directing, producing, editing, sound design, visual effects, experimental animation, 2D CG animation, 3D animation, traditional hand drawn and Stop-motion animation (depending on which area you wish to specialise in). As well as gaining a strong foundation in professional creative techniques, students learn the following software applications: T.V. Paint, After Effects, Photoshop, Maya, Mudbox, Premiere Pro, and specialist motion capture software.

The course has a structured educational design to enhance your creative journey: The third year helps students develop a specialist portfolio and preparing for employment:

• Personal Focus: Students can opt to work collaboratively or individually on an animated short film or undertake personal experimental work that focuses on their individual ambitions. Students can produce any style of work they wish through Animation Research, Practice and Production, specialist portfolio work such as storyboarding, concept art; character animation (and more), all are nurtured and encouraged by staff.

Industry Focus: Students work on live client briefs giving them an understanding of industry trends and communication. Students develop specific skills and industry research that focuses on their personal ambitions and plans through an industry report a focussed showreel and an online presence. The course learning outcomes are: BA Non-Honours Degree For the award of a non-honours degree, you, the student, will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge and ability of creative thought processes in relation to animation, the ability to recognise them and communicate them to others. Demonstrate critical and visual observations and skills relevant to the development of animation as a creative and commercial tool.

2. Demonstrate knowledge and ability in independent learning through the practice of self-directed study, developing specialist creative skills and

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knowledge in the pursuit of artistic vision and style in the domain of animation. 3. Demonstrate knowledge and ability in managing workloads, meeting

deadlines, setting and achieving goals, time and organisation skills, working independently and collaboratively, problem solving skills, professional responses and ability to communicate professionally.

4. Demonstrate knowledge and ability in identifying personal ambitions and developing relevant skills to increase career opportunities in animation. Demonstrate an understanding of the wider creative industries and the cultural implications influencing the subject animation both commercially and as a creative output.

5. Demonstrate knowledge and ability of Research and Practice in animation as an essential tool for creative, academic, and professional purposes.

6. Demonstrate knowledge and ability in articulating knowledge and an ability to think on a variety of practical skills and theories related to Animation. Demonstrate historical and contemporary knowledge of animation and the ability to debate ideas and theories related to animation.

BA or BSc Honours Degree For the award of an honours degree, you, the student, will be able to:

1. Confidently practice creative thought processes in relation to animation, the ability to recognise them and communicate them to others. Demonstrate critical and visual observations and skills relevant to the development of animation as a creative and commercial tool.

2. Confidently practice independent learning through the practice of self-directed study, developing specialist creative skills and knowledge in the pursuit of artistic vision and style in the domain of animation.

3. Confidently practice managing workloads, meeting deadlines, setting and achieving goals, time and organisation skills, working independently and collaboratively, problem solving skills, professional responses and ability to communicate professionally.

4. Confidently practice identifying personal ambitions and developing relevant skills to increase career opportunities in animation. Demonstrate an understanding of the wider creative industries and the cultural implications influencing the subject animation both commercially and as a creative output.

5. Confidently practice ‘research and practice’ in animation, as an essential tool for creative, academic, and professional purposes.

6. Confidently practice articulating knowledge and an ability to think on a variety of practical skills and theories related to Animation. Demonstrate historical and contemporary knowledge of animation and the ability to debate ideas and theories related to animation.

These will be achieved through the following learning activities: Students take part in both formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments provide feedback on work in progress; this is done during in weekly sessions, as well as in writing throughout the course. Summative assessment is given as the final grade which a rigorous procedure often involving two or more members of staff, students work is examined in accordance to the Module Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria which is stipulated on the Assessment Brief (given at the beginning of each Semester).

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University Learning Centres are the key source of academic information for students. Learning Centres provide physical library resources (books, journal, DVDs etc.) and offer a range of study areas to allow students to study in the environment that suit them best: Social areas, quiet and silent areas. Learning Centres also provide access to wide range of online information sources, including eBooks, e-Journals and subject databases. For more information, please visit: www.wlv.ac.uk/lib/info/welcome Learning Centres also provide students with academic skills support via the Skills for Learning programme. Students on campus can attend workshops or ask for one-to-one help on a range of skills such as academic writing and referencing. Students can access a range of online skills material at: www.wlv.ac.uk/lib/skills Dedicated Subject Pages allow students to explore key online information sources that are recommended for their studies. For Media: www.wlv.ac.uk/lib/subjects/broadcasting-film-and-media . The University Student Support website offers advice on a variety of matters (careers, counselling, student union advice, etc.) https://www.wlv.ac.uk/study-here/student-support/ Students can also access these services by booking appointment with the SU, careers, counselling services, etc. In addition to the material provided in class and on the Virtual Learning Platform, the Faculty offers tailored academic and pastoral support to students. Students’ first port of call is their personal tutor (each student is allocated a personal tutor at the beginning of the academic year), but they can also talk to module leaders, course leader, school administrator, graduate interns and graduate teaching assistants, whose details can be found in the course guide. Advice will be given through the induction process and then through appointments throughout the year, in addition to classes and tutorials. Students can expect to receive support and guidance in the area of Personal Development Planning, to understand better their learning process, have the skills and understanding to act on the feedback. Lecturers will provide personalised feedback for formative and summative assessments. On occasions lecturers may provide generalised feedback to the whole group on points relating to an assessment. The course is accredited, endorsed or approved (depending on the professional body requirements) Not applicable. Contact Hours At University, the term ‘contact hours’ is used very broadly to refer to the amount of time that you spend learning in contact with teaching or associated staff, when studying for a particular course. This time provides you with support in developing your subject knowledge and skills, and provides opportunities to develop and reflect on your own, independent learning. Your University Academic Calendar for the year is available to you through your Course Leader.

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Timetables Timetabling information is available to you through your course leader for the modules that you have registered for.

Student Voice The Student Voice is a partnership between the University and the Students’ Union, put in place to make sure students opinions/feedback are heard at every level of university governance, from course level to the University’s governing body. The main positions within the Student Voice are Course Reps, who are volunteer students on every course. They have meetings with lecturers on a regular basis, highlighting both positive and negative feedback to Course Management and Tutors within their course. If you ever wanted to get involved with the student voice, or need more information please contact the Engagement Team in the Students’ Union – Student Voice For independent advice and guidance on all matters related to being a student , contact the Students’ Union’s Advice and Support Centre by telephone or e-mail Advice and Support. Responding to Student Feedback “You said/We did” Student Charter The University’s TNE Student Charter has been developed primarily by the Students’ Union and informed by student views. The Charter is not a contract, nor is it intended to be legally binding; it is a set of shared expectations which establishes the values and standards we are seeking to promote across all of our learning community. The Charter seeks to apply to all students on all courses and reflect our normal expectations of your experience at University. On occasions different types of study and interactions will mean necessary variations from time to time. However, what is important to us is that, whatever you are studying, your experience is a great one. Engagement The University recognises that you have made a significant investment in both time and money in choosing to study for a degree. The University is committed to helping you fulfil your potential. Your engagement with the study materials, and participation in the sessions, activities and assessment tasks are very important in ensuring that you are able to do so. Your engagement will help you to: 1. Understand the subject area you are studying; 2. Acquire and develop the skills and knowledge needed to ensure success; 3. Prepare for assessment tasks; 4. Learn from and with your fellow students; 5. Receive feedback from your tutors on your progress; 6. Fully participate in sessions, forums, seminars and other activities; 7. Develop your communication skills. If you are unable to participate in any of the activities or sessions please let your tutor know that you are unable to do so. He/she will then be able to give you advice on what

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was dealt with during the session or activity, and what you need to do to catch up. Please do remember how important engagement and participation is to your success. You are encouraged to engage with the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and Student Management System, further details of how to access these can be found here. Contact time with teaching and associated staff is available to help shape and guide your studies. The term 'contact hours' refers to the amount of time that you spend learning in contact with teaching or associated staff, when studying your chosen course. The number of contact hours on a course is influenced by the subject, as well as how and where you are studying. The Wolverhampton Graduate The experience of studying at University is about much more than just gaining knowledge and understanding of a subject(s), it is also about developing additional skills and capabilities that you can take with you into a wide range of different settings. Sometimes it can be difficult to explain to others what you have done and achieved. The following Graduate Attributes will help you think about the knowledge and skills you have gained and how these can be presented to prospective employers and/or other interested parties. This is not an exhaustive list and you will need to reflect on what you can personally demonstrate that is appropriate for different settings and contexts such as job interviews. You will also have formed your own opinion about what going to university means to you and how you think you have developed. While at university you will have the opportunity to:

1. acquire, generate, interrogate and apply knowledge from a wide range of sources,

2. develop research skills to enable analysis , synthesis, understanding and evaluation of data and information.

3. demonstrate self-discipline and organizational skills by meeting deadlines, and taking responsibility for your own development and learning

4. present ideas clearly in an informed and persuasive manner to a variety of audiences.

5. be innovative, creative and enterprising work collaboratively, whilst acknowledging, respecting and engaging with the views of others in a constructive and empathetic manner

6. draw on professional advice and feedback to reflect on and improve your own learning and professional practice;

7. prepare for the world of work through engagement with real life situations, briefs and problems

8. engage with new ideas and ways of working as an active member of the communities in which you study, live and work.

External Examiners Ms Ellie Land, Senior Lecturer in Animation, University of Northumbria at Newcastle External Examiners play a key role in helping the University to ensure that our standards are comparable with other institutions in the sector and are consistent over the years and that our assessment processes and regulations treat all students fairly and equitably. It is

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not part of their remit to communicate with individual students (it is to be noted that students are given access to External Examiner reports in their entirety via the Modules and Programmes page on e-vision in line with the HEFCE Publication 06/45 and some students may have the opportunity to meet with externals if they visit placement areas or attend for planned meetings or assessment). Students are therefore reminded that they must not make direct contact with External Examiners in respect of their assessed work or performance. Any student issues should be relayed either directly to the Module or Course Leader. Academic Regulations This course follows the University’s academic regulations. A full version of these regulations can be found on the University web page for Policies and Regulations. These regulations govern your course and will be binding on you. It is, therefore, important that you read and become familiar with them. If you have any questions regarding the regulations you should raise your query by logging an e:Vision Helpdesk call. Exam Regulations The University also have regulations that specifically cover examinations. Examination Regulations

The maximum period over which an award may be studied is detailed in the regulations appropriate to your course. Typically these are:

Top-Up Honours Degrees

Full Time Students Normal Maximum Honours degree (180 credits) 2 years 3 years Honours degree (120 credits) 1 year 2 years Ordinary degree 1year 2 years

Part Time Students Normal Maximum Honours degree (180 credits) 3 years 4 years Honours degree (120 credits) 2 year 4 years Ordinary degree 2 years 4 years

The above maximum registration periods do not include time away from study approved under the Leave of Absence procedure. Registration periods for students admitted with Recognition of Prior Learning and for students who choose to amend their mode of attendance, will be calculated pro-rata. Please be aware that to be eligible to continue on your course you must pass at least one module in your first year of study. Course Information Reference points Quality Code - Part A: Setting and Maintaining Academic Standards. Including:

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Qualifications Frameworks Characteristics Statements Credit Frameworks Subject Benchmark Statements: Communication, media, film and cultural studies 2008 Subject benchmark statement Art and design 2008 Quality Code - Part B: Assuring and Enhancing Academic Quality University Policies and Regulations Equality Act (2010) Attendance Coláiste Dhúlaigh recognises that you have made a significant investment in both time and money in choosing to study for an undergraduate degree. Attendance will help you to: • Understand the subject area you are studying; • Acquire and develop the skills and knowledge needed to ensure success; • Prepare for and undertake assessments; • Learn from and with your fellow students; • Receive feedback from teaching; • Participate in practical and group work; • Develop your communication skills. If you are unable to attend a class please let your tutor know that you are unable to do so. He/she will then be able to give you advice on what was covered in the class, and what you need to do to catch up. Please do remember how important attendance is to your success. Support at Coláiste Dhúlaigh Existing experienced tutors are available to teach on these degree courses, ensuring a high quality of delivery. Industry workshops will be given by practitioners within the Irish Media Industry. There will be a practical approach to teaching methodologies, in consultation with approved UoW practices. Undergraduates will have access to a range of technical resources, including computers, cameras, storage devices, lighting etc. CDCFE has a full time dedicated administrative office. Subject support CDCFE already provides the following resources:

• A dedicated studio with editing/computer facilities with required software and internet access (ratio 1 to 1)

• Web cast lectures broadcast from University of Wolverhampton • Access to WOLF Topic • VLE Moodle • Access to Cameras, microphones and other related hardware.

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Your Course Leader is first point of contact and available for meetings by appointment to discuss leave of absence, withdrawal, transferring to another course (internal and external), changes to mode of attendance, returning after leave of absence and direct entrants. Tutorials, workshops, seminars and meetings provide the primary opportunities for students to interact with staff on topics relating to modules. All modules provide at least one of these forms of face-to-face support. Feedback - tutors provide personalised written feedback on most summative assessments. The mechanism for feedback from purely formative tasks varies between assessments, but will always be provided in some form. On occasions tutors may provide generalised verbal feedback to the whole class on points relating to an assessment. Student Charter – Coláiste Dhúlaigh Fair Treatment Students can expect:

• To be treated with courtesy and respect at all times. • To be treated fairly in an environment free from harassment and discrimination. • To be represented by their student union (student representatives are invited to

bring any problems to the attention of management). • To be provided with the opportunity to provide feedback about the quality and

effectiveness of their course of study and related services. • The college to provide a safe and secure environment. • To have reasonable access to student support services.

Students will be expected:

• To treat all members of staff and fellow students with courtesy and respect. • To be aware of and to comply with, College regulations including this code of

conduct. • To fulfil all obligations to ensure the smooth running of the College. • To provide honest feedback on the course and related services. • To conduct themselves in a professional manner while on work placement. • To respect the property and facilities of the College. • To ensure that Health and Safety regulations are adhered to. • To behave responsibly and respectfully in the community.

Assessment Marking Scheme and Performance Descriptors All marking on your course is conducted in percentages. Student feedback asked for better clarity of assessment criteria. The marking scheme includes performance descriptors so you can better understand the level at which you are working and where you need to improve to raise your marks. On e:Vision you will be able to view the performance descriptor for your module mark to give you immediate feedback on your assessment with further detailed personal feedback to follow from your module tutor. Further details can be viewed at: www.wlv.ac.uk/newmarkingscheme.

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Support for Learning You will receive support for your learning from: your personal tutor, the subject Course Leader and also from specific module leaders and, where appropriate, from the Head of Department.

The University provides counselling and financial support, together with academic advice and guidance through the website (www.wlv.ac.uk/skills).

Reflective personal development practices are encouraged throughout the duration of the course, which will help you to monitor your progression. Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education – Policy on Tackling Academic Misconduct The University considers seriously all acts of academic misconduct, which by definition are dishonest and in direct opposition to the values of a learning community. Academic misconduct, if not challenged, will ultimately devalue academic standards and honest effort on the part of all students. General Academic Regulations Once a student has entered the College and enrolled on a course they are obliged to observe the regulations laid down for enrolment, attendance, assignment deadlines, use of the library, use of information technology and conduct of examinations. It is the responsibility of each student to familiarise themselves with College regulations as set out in the ‘Learner Handbook’ (provided to each student electronically); these are also available in the Libraries and on the Moodle site. Admissions Attendance Assessment Appeals Submission of Assignments Examination Regulations Plagiarism Computer and Network Usage Agreement (to include recent policies on Social Networking Sites) Library Regulations Health and Safety Regulations Bullying Social Networking Sites Examples of breaches of the Code of Conduct under general academic regulations include:

• failure to comply with requirements laid down for registration; • failure, without reasonable explanation to carry out all or any of the following:

attend class, attend a workshop, attend tutor meeting and meet the particular requirements necessary for an assignment;

• conduct likely to disrupt a class or other activity; • failure to observe the rules laid down for the Library or a computer room; • contravention of regulations laid down for examinations;

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• falsification or misuse of College records or documents. Breaches of Discipline Any act or omission which adversely affects the rights of other members of the College, or which disrupts the normal activities of the College, or which violates any College regulations, safety rules or codes of conduct, will constitute a breach of discipline. The following are examples of breaches of discipline:

• Plagiarism, or copying or cheating at examinations; • Conduct which may disrupt teaching, study or the administration of the College; • Obstruction or abuse of a person in the normal pursuit of his/her work; • Damaging, defacing, stealing or misappropriation of any property of the College or

of a staff or student member; • Misuse of a student card, or impersonation, or activities involving false pretenses or

dishonesty; • Bullying or harassment of any student or staff member; • Possession or distribution of illegal substances; • Misbehaviour outside the College which tends to damage its good name.

Sanctions When a student is found guilty of an offence as determined by the Principal the following sanctions may apply:

• A warning; • A reprimand and a note on the student’s personal record; • Suspension from College; • Exclusion from specific College facilities; • Exclusion from the College; • In the case where college property has been damaged a fine may be imposed; • In the case of plagiarism or of copying, cheating, bringing unauthorised materials

into examinations, no mark/grade will be awarded for the assessment in question; • The principal also has discretion to cancel all examinations or assessments of the

candidate in that session. Students should note the following: All students are obliged to be aware of and comply with CDCFE General Rules and Regulations for schools. Copies are issued to all students.

• The College reserves the right where necessary to alter the days and times for subjects and courses;

• It is policy of the College to consult with students and parents whenever it is necessary and appropriate;

• Students are free at all times to consult with Course Tutors, Heads of Department, Deputy Principals or Principal by appointment;

• Students are required at registration to give an undertaking to familiarize themselves and to abide by the “Code of Conduct for Students”;

Students have the right to appeal decisions that arise from the implementation of the ‘Code of Conduct for Students’. Personal Tutor

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When you join the University you will be given a Personal Tutor. This information can be found in your e-vision homepage. Your personal tutor is someone who can offer you guidance and advice, this could be about your course, and any other aspects that affect your study. In order for personal tutoring to be a beneficial and meaningful relationship for you, you need to communicate with your personal tutor. Academic Misconduct We take pride in the academic integrity of our staff and students but when academic misconduct is suspected the University will take action. The University considers seriously all acts of academic misconduct, which by definition are dishonest and in direct opposition to the values of a learning community. If not challenged, academic misconduct will ultimately devalue our academic standards and undermines the honest efforts on the part of our staff and students.

Academic misconduct includes plagiarism, collusion and cheating and may be deliberate or unintentional. Whatever form it takes, it will be thoroughly investigated and penalties will be applied if proven.

Support for Students The University and the Students’ Union believe that many incidents of academic misconduct can be avoided by increasing students’ knowledge and skill.

A variety of support mechanisms are in place to help students succeed and avoid academic misconduct:

1. Visit our study skills support website at www.wlv.ac.uk/skills See the section on

tackling academic misconduct. 2. Download the Students' Union guide to Avoiding Academic Misconduct ("Write

Right") - available from the Student’s Union website: 3. Book a Skype appointment with study skills adviser or join the online chat service

ASSIST - through the Learning Centre “Skills for Learning” website. 4. Contact your personal tutor or module leader.

Remember – there is help available if you need it.

Defining Academic Misconduct Cheating Cheating is defined as any attempt to gain unfair advantage in an assessment by dishonest means, and includes, for example, all breaches of examination room rules, impersonating another student, falsifying data, and obtaining an examination paper in advance of its authorised release. Cheating attracts the University’s most severe penalties.

Other common examples of cheating would include –

1. Being in possession of “revision notes” during an examination 2. The purchase or commission of assignments from others 3. Theft of other students’ work 4. Prohibited communication during an examination

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Plagiarism Plagiarism is the act of taking someone else’s work and passing it off as your own. This includes incorporating either unattributed direct quotation(s) or substantial paraphrasing from the work of another/others. It is important to cite all sources whose work has been drawn on and reference them fully in accordance with the referencing standard used in each academic School/Institute or Faculty.

The most common forms of plagiarism are –

1. Cut or copied and pasted materials from websites 2. Copying the work of another student (past or present) including essays available

through “essay bank” websites – or other data. 3. Copying material from a text book or journal

When you’re using other people’s work or ideas it is important to engage with their work critically. You can quote, paraphrase, summarise or critically review – but you must always provide appropriate references. Collusion Collusion is when two or more people combine to produce a piece of work for assessment that is passed off as the work of one student alone. The work may be so alike in content, wording and structure that the similarity goes beyond what might have been coincidence. For example – where one student has copied the work of another, or where a joint effort has taken place in producing what should have been an individual effort.

Collusion should not be confused with the normal situation in which students learn from one another, sharing ideas and group work to complete assignments (where this is specifically authorised). Plagiarism Detection In concert with the skills and experiences of academic staff the University will utilise electronic tools such as Turnitin to detect plagiarism. Turnitin is the software currently subscribed to by the University. At Undergraduate level the University will require that all final year projects and dissertations are submitted to Turnitin for analysis. At postgraduate level the University will require that all dissertations (or similar) are submitted to Turnitin for analysis. Students are required, where appropriate, to make a declaration as the authenticity and originality of any submitted piece of work. This declaration also authorises the University to request and require students to provide and electronic version of any submitted assessment for checking work via Turnitin where plagiarism is suspected.

Penalties Where an offence is admitted, or a panel decides that cheating, plagiarism or collusion has occurred, a penalty will be imposed. There is a cumulative range of penalties which will be applied to any continuous period of registration for study with the University. The severity of the penalty will vary according to the nature of the offence and the number of previous offences. Penalties range from failure of the assignment under investigation to exclusion from the University.

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Full details about the University's policy on Academic Misconduct, regulations and procedures, investigation of academic misconduct or to make an appeal or a complaint are available on the Conduct and Appeals website. Where to get help with your course Local Student Support. Kevin White – Lecturer & Academic Contact Email: kwhite@cdcfe.com Tel: 00353 1 848 1400 Tracy Staunton – Course Leader Email: tstaunton@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Richard Glynn Email: rglynn@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Ed Smith Email: esmith@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Kevin Lynch Email: klynch@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Michelle Phelan Email: mphelan@cdcfe.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Tanya Lennon – Administrator Email: tanya.lennoncdcfe@gmail.com Tel: 01 848 1400 Denise Doyle – Contact in Respect of Students with Disabilities Email: cdguidance@gmail.com Tel: 01 848 1400

Comment [DD2]: Tracy – are these names still correct?

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University Student Support If you encounter any issues (personal or academic) the following diagram directs you to the appropriate department or staff member. Administration queries:

enrolment extensions

extenuating circumstances Leave of Absence

Course transfer, etc

Your Local S.T.a.R Office eVision helpdesk

Academic and Course related queries

Personal Tutor Course Leader

(by email)

Module related queries

Module guide (on WOLF) Module Leader

or Tutor

Support for Study Skills

W: www.wlv.ac.uk/skills

E: skills@wlv.ac.uk

and local partner based support

IT Problems

W: www.wlv.ac.uk/ITServices E: ITSupport@wlv.ac.uk

Who to Contact for help

Financial advice: www.wlv.ac.uk/moneymatters E: money@wlv.ac.uk

Your Local Student Office

S.T.a.R Office

Careers & Employment Centre

Local Partner Centre

Special Needs

(Students with disabilities)

Special Needs Tutor or Student Enabling Centre

or your local student office at the partner institution W: www.wlv.ac.uk/sec

E: sec@wlv.ac.uk

Personal Issues (UK)

Personal Tutor (see eVision for details)

University Counselling Service

W: www.wlv.ac.uk/counselling E: counsellingservices@wlv.ac.uk TNE – Personal Tutor

General queries

eVision helpdesk or

www.wlv.ac.uk/distance

or your local Student Office

Independent academic, financial and international advice

Students’ Union Advice and Support Centre

W: www.wolvesunion.org/advice

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Extensions, Extenuating Circumstances and Leave of Absence The University wants all students to do their best. You are expected to take responsibility for your own learning and we know students perform best if they participate in all activities associated with their modules. Very occasionally something may happen suddenly which is beyond your control and this will prevent you from attending an examination (or other test) or completing an assessment by the due date. Common reasons for needing additional help are poor health or a death in the family – although other reasons may apply. Extensions - for some assessments there may be the option to apply for a short term (maximum 7 days) extension if you are experiencing difficulties in completing your work on time. You should apply for the extension via your e:Vision account on or before your assessment date and provide supporting evidence to your Student Centre. On receipt of the evidence your claim will be assessed and you will be notified by e-mail if your extension has been approved and your revised submission date. Further details can be found here. Extenuating Circumstances – claims for extenuating circumstances are also submitted via your e: Vision account on or before your assessment date and again evidence to support your claim must be provided to your Student Centre. Claims for Extenuating Circumstances tend to be for more serious matters and if your claim is accepted then it enables you to take the assessment at the next available opportunity without penalty. If you have any queries regarding either of these processes then please log a call on the e:Vision helpdesk. Leave of Absence - in more extreme cases of potential prolonged absence you might consider a temporary leave of absence. Students may temporarily suspend their studies a semester at a time (and up to a maximum of four semesters). You can apply for a Leave of Absence via e:Vision but we would strongly recommend that you get advice from your Personal Tutor, your Student Centre or the Students’ Union, particularly regarding the financial implications, before taking this step. If you are an international student we take into account the fact that you will have paid a non-refundable deposit and your fee liability points will be at the start of the first term and third term (remainder of fee). We recommend you seek guidance on this from the International Student Support team in MX Student Centre. TNE Students contact is via e:Vision Health & Safety issues Students must adhere strictly to the College’s safety policies and procedures. Policy for Evaluating Premises, Equipment and Facilities It is college policy that premises, equipment and facilities, which are used in the delivery of programmes, are reviewed on an on-going basis. This review is part of ensuring that the College delivers on its mission statement of providing excellent programmes. The college places great importance on how its physical resources supports the programmes and contributes to attainment of learning outcomes by students.

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Procedures Six Assistant Principals form a facilities evaluation team and have direct responsibility in this area. They include the following:

• Health, Safety and Facilities Management • Head of Centre Raheny • Head of Centre Kilbarrack • Information Technology and Communications, Learning Support • Sport and Cultural Officer

Individually and together they will examine and evaluate premises, equipment and facilities. The physical resources will be analysed under the headings of Accommodation, Teaching Equipment, Information Technology Resources and Facilities. The outcomes of the monitoring and evaluation elements of the Quality Assurance System may recommend changes impacting on premises, facilities and equipment. All Programme Improvement Plans are submitted yearly to the evaluation team. The procedure for periodic programme evaluation, which happens every five years, also addresses the suitability of premises, equipment and facilities and makes recommendations for change. Health and Wellbeing whilst using your computer As a student you will be using a computer for the majority of your study. The guidelines below are to promote good health and wellbeing in relation to your computer use. Set-up and space Ensure you have a comfortable working area where you can have adequate space for your keyboard, mouse, monitor or laptop/mobile device and that you are in a comfortable seated position. Try to prevent eye strain by ensuring you have good lighting, adjusting your monitor to prevent glare and by cleaning your monitor regularly. If you are using a laptop for any extended length of time try to use an external mouse to prevent continued use of a laptop mouse pad which can cause strain injuries. Taking a break You should take regular breaks away from the screen. One to two minutes away every thirty minutes can be most effective, with regular longer breaks every couple of hours. Physically moving away from the screen and working area will also allow for important stretching and increasing circulation as well as reducing eye strain from looking at the screen. Progression for Further Study Career opportunities and Future Study Postgraduate Courses at the University of Wolverhampton: MA Design & Applied Arts (Specialism) MA Fine Art MA Digital & Visual Communication (Specialism) Research opportunities: MPhil and PhDs in Art and Design (interdisciplinary combinations available) PhD Study:

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Studying the effect of art, craft and design on society is the focus for CADRE, the University’s Centre of Art, Design, Research and Experimentation. From the social interaction inherent in new media technologies, the theory and practice of cultural agency, experiments in dialogic collaborations for curation, and to exploratory material processes for performative object – the Research Centre investigates a broad range of artistic practices that influence the way we think, feel and behave. A research degree – MPhil (Master of Philosophy) or PhD (Dr of Philosophy) – is an individual academic investigation carried out under the supervision of a small team of specialists who offer high-level advice, support and training. All research enquiries initially to: Research Administrator, University of Wolverhampton Faculty of Arts Room MK501a Tel: +44 1902 321000 Email: arts@wlv.ac.uk Career opportunities and Future Study Graduate Destinations The potential expansion of the audio visual industry in Ireland is being limited by the availability of suitably qualified graduates. CDCFE hopes to remedy this by providing practical degrees, using the experience of staff within the Irish Media Industry. According to the Screen Producers Ireland Media/Animation Sector Survey (2012) (This is the most up to date survey available so far):

• 89% of companies stated that Irish Animation/Media Graduates were not sufficiently skilled to commence work in their studio’s;

• 89% of companies had difficulty in finding suitable staff and had to postpone or cancel productions as a result;

• 33% of companies believe Trainer Skill levels need to be improved (advancements in software etc.) so that graduates are industry ready;

• Time allocation for work placements and internships need to be allocated on courses.

The audio-visual industry report ‘Creative Capital: Building Ireland’s Audio-visual Creative Economy’ was published in 2011 and has been referred to as “blueprint for 5,000 new jobs in the industry” A Steering Group for the Audio-visual Industry Strategic Review has been formed by the Irish Government as a result of the Creative Capital Report. Their role is to implement improvements in five main areas of the media sector. CDCFE believes that a partnership with University of Wolverhampton can help to educate students to make a valuable contribution to some of these areas. The five main areas include:

• Developing the Industry and Building Strong Companies • Building Audio-visual Exports

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• Development of Skills and Talent • Ensure a Strong Domestic Economy • Mobilisation of the Irish Industry and the Whole of Government

Job placement of graduates Graduates from the present Communication and Media Production, Film Production and Animation Programme have found employment in a wide variety of areas. Some work in RTE, TG4, Pulse Recording, Boulder Media, Brown Bag Films, Cartoon Saloon, JAM Media, Irish Times and Freelance practitioners, along with a host of other areas such as PR and Event Management. Our graduates have contributed to the growth of the creative media industries in Ireland, winning prizes at national and international levels. The College would regularly feature in the SMEDIA award nominations, sometimes winning some. Most recently, Damien O’Donnell has won a BAFTA award as Director of East is East, while Kevin Burke won two Emmy Awards for his work as Senior Producer for the Lou Dobbs show (CNN, NY). A television documentary on the Special Olympics made by students during their final year was broadcast by TV3 as part of their normal schedule. Furthermore graduates may be able to gain employment in a variety of other sectors including education/teaching, design management, arts administration, sales, marketing etc. Graduates can take up opportunities for further study through the University of Wolverhampton’s MA Design for Advertising as well as through other postgraduate programmes nationally. Alumni

We're proud of your success. Be proud of your connection with us. Once you complete your studies you will continue to be part of the University of Wolverhampton academic community as one of our ever growing alumni community. The WLV Alumni Association is a university-wide association bringing together Wolverhampton graduates. For further information on Graduation and Alumni please visit our Alumni website. APPENDIX 1 Module Information 6DM022 Animation Research and Practice 6DM029 Animation Production 6DM016 Professional Animation Project 6DM028 Professional Development 6MZ021 Placement Module VERSION OWNER Registry

Comment [DD3]: Are there any module descriptors and details of who they are taught by?

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APPROVED DATE 5 May 2016 APPROVED BY UQEC REVIEW DATE 2017/8