module specification

The purpose of this module is toprovide learners with an opportunity to develop an
understanding of working within the industry and develop a range of professional and personal transferable skillsto promote their future career development.

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This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to:
• Identify their strengths and areas for development.
• Develop a business plan and marketing strategies.
• Understand industry protocols and parameters through experiencing work based learning.
• Manage and evaluate theircareer development, objectives and targets.

An indicative programme of study covers the following:

• Researching opportunities for employment and experience related to the creative media industries
• Developing professionalism, and presentation skills
• Producing a professional CV and covering letter
• Exploring alternative career possibilities utilise a similar set of skills to those delivered on the course
• Spending a minimum of ten days working in the industry
• obtaining at least one industry references
• Using simple accounting and invoicing procedures
• Identifying different business models
• the advantages / disadvantages of creating a small business.
• Identifying and applying the principles of financial planning, budget control and personal management
• strategies to effectively plan and manage a multimedia project, making good use of available resources

This module is primarily a learner-centred unit, delivered with tutor guidance, supported by workshops, and visiting speakers from the industry, its trade bodies and associations. Feedback will take place at key points, as students prepare for, and during work placements. There will be a number of guided lessons on targeted CV and letter writing, communications, as well as research skills using the web and trade publications. Work placements will be undertaken at an employer’s premises, as well as opportunities to work on live briefs using the college’s or other resourced facilities. Students will also research business planning, resource planning, funding and freelance business skills. Through this research, and an evaluation of skills and abilities, students will compile a business plan identifying freelance and employment opportunities. There will be input from visiting speakers, freelancers, legal, accountancy and banking professionals alongside tutor led lectures, seminar discussions and individual tutorials.

knowledge and understanding:
1. Research and identify potential business andcareer opportunitiesin digital media design
2. Identify and apply risk analysis and safety regulations to the workplace.
cognitive intellectual skills:
3. evaluate progress and achievement of personal development and targets.
transferable skills including those of employability and professional practice:
4. develop a range of interpersonal and transferable skills including verbal communication, effective listening, respect of others’ opinions,interview technique, negotiation, persuasion, presentation and assertiveness.
5. apply time management,  prioritising workloads, setting objectives, using time effectively, making and keeping appointments.
subject-specific practical skills:
6. Develop professional networks through discipline-specific knowledge, skills and attributes necessary for professional practice in your field.
7. Apply the principles of business planning & project management in a media design context

Blick, D. (2011) The Ultimate Small Business Marketing Book; Filament Publishing
Moon, Jennifer A. (2006). Learning Journals: A Handbook for Reflective Practice and Professional Development; London-N-Y, Routledge
McGee, P. (2007) How to Write a Great CV: Discover What Interviewers Are Looking For, Focus on Your Strengths and Perfect Your Presentation, How to Books
Shan Preddy, S.  (2012) How to Run a Successful Design Business;  Gower
Whiteley, J (2004) Going for self-employment: how to set up and run your own business, How to books, Oxford.

http://www.skillset.org/
http://www.freelanceuk.com/
www.creative-choices.co.uk