Exploring Practice module (DJ51029)
Refine a personal study path, develop production skills through workshops, and complete a recorded presentation, reflective blog, and supporting materials
This module equips you to define and develop your personal study path as a Masters animation and VFX student. A series of workshops and practical experience gives you insight into the key elements of successful project development, from concept mapping and storyboarding to production planning and post-production.
Technical workshops introduce you to digital SLRs and lenses, digital video editing, the industry-standard Maya 3D toolkit, and VFX software tools. Life drawing classes develop your observational skills. Alongside these, lectures explore research approaches, scriptwriting, lighting, and storytelling. Studio practice, along with individual and group tutorials, gives you time to apply your skills, receive tailored feedback, and work towards your personal programme of study.
You'll document your progress in a reflective blog throughout the module. By the end, you'll have a clear and considered Programme of Study, a body of supporting visual work, and the intellectual rigour to apply technical skills creatively.
What you will learn
In this module, you will:
- Plan a personal programme of study for your Masters-level animation and VFX practice
- Develop production skills across concept mapping, storyboarding, production planning, and post-production
- Build technical proficiency in digital tools including industry-standard 3D toolkit, VFX software, and digital video editing
- Apply research approaches and reflective practice to your animation and VFX projects
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of context and how to apply it to your practice
- Use reflective practice throughout the design, definition, and production of animation projects
- Show ability to plan a personal programme of study with appropriate tools and processes
- Provide considered judgment of suitable production methods and self-critically evaluate your work
Assignments / assessments
Coursework (100%)
- Recorded Presentation Video (maximum 15 minutes) demonstrating your progression and work
- Reflective Blog/Progress Log documenting research, methods, and personal development
- Supporting materials (such as documents, test results, and digital sketchbooks)
- Optional but strongly encouraged: A 10-minute Live Q&A session on MS Teams to receive early feedback and clarify your work.
This module does not have a final exam.
Teaching methods / timetable
- Lectures and Seminars
- Technical workshops including Maya 3D toolkit, VFX software, and digital video editing
- Individual and Group Tutorials providing tailored feedback, peer critique, and collaborative discussion
- Life drawing classes to develop observational and drawing skills
- Studio and workshop-based learning with opportunities for experimentation and prototyping
Courses
This module is available on the following courses: