Programme Specification

and Curriculum Map for BA Dance Performance

1. Programme title BA Dance Performance2. Awarding institution Middlesex University3. Teaching institution Middlesex University4. Programme accredited by N/A5. Final qualification BA (Hons)6. Academic year 2013/147. Language of study English8. Mode of study Full-time

9. Criteria for admission to the programmeCriteria for admission rest upon the principles that the applicant has prior experience in dance and is able to demonstrate their potential for (i) benefiting from an education in dance and (ii) contributing to the development of the subject both within Middlesex University and in the wider professional and community context. A balance is sought between knowledge and skills in the technical, expressive, creative and critical aspects of dance study. A good academic record is required, including an examination profile with the standard UCAS tariff of 280 points with a minimum of 140 points from two 6unit awards, or their equivalent in other standard qualifications, though these may be waived in the case of mature students. Applicants who hold, or who are expected to gain these academic qualifications and have revealed their commitment to dance in their initial application are given the opportunity to demonstrate their technical and performance skills in an audition class.

10. Aims of the programmeThe programme aims to:

disseminate knowledge and skills in the technical, expressive and artistic aspects of dance performance

equip students with knowledge and skills in the central activities of creating, performing and critically appraising dance

nurture understanding of and application in practice of the inter-relationship between these elements, thus enabling the student to appreciate the significance of a balanced and holistic approach to the study of dance

promote the acquisition of knowledge of selected historical, contemporary and diverse cultural contexts within which dance is produced, circulated and received

offer the student opportunities to choose specialist areas of interest for study in depth

foster the learning of appropriate subject knowledge and transferable skills for entry into a variety of vocational fields and work opportunities, particularly in postgraduate study

facilitate the acquisition of research skills pertinent to vocational work and to further study.

11. Programme outcomes

A. Knowledge and understandingOn completion of this programme the successful student will have knowledge and understanding of:

1. The technical experience and artistic aspects of dance performance.

2. The key principles related to the craft of performing, dance technique, artistic interpretation.

3. Selected alternative training methods which improve dance performance.

4. The technical theatre arts which contribute to the realisation of dance production.

5. The key components of choreography and the processes which contribute to the creation and realisation of dance in production.

6. The key characteristics of selected contemporary theatre dance forms and related activities and the way in which these can

provide performance skills, contributing to the creation of appropriate technical/artistic vocabularies for performance.

7. Historical and contemporary contexts for dance such as the artistic, social, educational and institutional.

8. Key practitioners and writers who have contributed to the development of dance through theoretical debate and practical activity.

9. Pertinent critical and cultural issues and perspective, which enhance the appreciation of dance, and the ability to contribute to those debates through informed opinion.

10. Where appropriate, other artistic and cultural practices, which influence the creation and appraisal of dance.

Teaching/learning methods The programme is delivered through tutor-led and self-directed methods of learning. The emphasis moves from the former to the latter in order to equip students with the capacity for life-long autonomous learning.The above statement in bold also applies to sections B) Cognitive Skills, C) Practical Skills and D) Graduate Skills

Students gain knowledge and understanding through:

1 Lectures to provide and disseminate the information, skilled based classes to provide the specific knowledge the skill being studied requires,

2 Seminars and workshops, to provide the opportunity for student discussion groups to address issues covered by lectures and support reading,

3 Tutorials and feedback to provide the opportunity for students to seek clarification of understanding and for two-way feedback process between staff and students to be reinforced.

Assessment MethodsStudents’ knowledge and application of understanding is assessed by: essays, seminar presentations, multiple choice examinations, evaluative log book, technical/performance assessment, the creation and presentation of choreography.

These strategies enable the student to apply their level of attainment in their knowledge and understanding via application. At level 4, assessment is diagnostic in that it identifies students’ strengths and weaknesses. At all other levels, grades contribute to the final degree profile (see University Guide and Regulations). Peer assessment is also used as a teaching strategy. Assessments will take place at various points during the module. Formal assessment tasks (i.e. summative, graded assignments) are normally disseminated at the beginning of each module alongside assessment deadline dates. The above statement in bold also applies to sections B) Cognitive Skills, C) Practical Skills and D) Graduate Skills.

B. Cognitive (thinking) skillsOn completion of this programme the successful student will be able:

1. To synthesise, analyse, evaluate, and interpret, as appropriate, practical and theoretical knowledge and the inter-relationship between the two.

2. To select and critically evaluate source material and a variety of types of information and evidence.

3. To utilise problem solving skills and creative thinking.4. To apply practical and theoretical knowledge in appropriate

contexts.

Teaching/learning methods Students learn cognitive skills through: lectures, seminars, resource-based learning, including professional art and community practice and through exploitation of appropriate resource tools offered by specialist technology. (Please refer back to statement in bold aligned to section A)

Assessment MethodStudents’ cognitive skills are assessed by essays, seminar presentations, short critical reviews. Assessment may also occur in an

independent or collaborative context. (Please refer back to statement in bold aligned to section A)

C. Practical skillsOn completion of the programme the successful student will be able to:

1. Apply technical and expressive skills of dance performance.2. Create and compose choreography.3. Engage with diverse processes of dance making e.g.

collaborative; choreographer directed.4. Apply production skills, inter-personal and collaborative skills.5. Identify and apply appropriate research skills.

Teaching/learning methodsStudents learn practical skills through lectures, seminars, resource-based learning, including professional art and community practice and through exploitation of appropriate resource tools offered by specialist technology. (Please refer back to statement in bold aligned to section A)

Assessment MethodStudents’ practical skills are assessed by: Practical assessment class, assessment of choreography, assessment of performance, evaluative writing, log books. (Please refer back to statement on bold aligned to section A)

D. Graduate SkillsOn completion of this programme the successful student will be able to:

1. Communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals using a variety of means.

2. Evaluate her/his own academic and practical performance.3. Utilise problem–solving skills in a variety of theoretical and

practical situations.4. Manage change effectively and respond to changing demands.5. Manage time and prioritise workloads and recognise and

manage personal emotions and stress.

6. Utilise information management skills, e.g. ICT skills

Teaching/learning methodsStudents acquire graduate skills through: professional working environment, theoretical and practical lectures, collaborative work with other students and outside professionals. (Please refer back to statement in bold aligned to section A)

Assessment methodStudents’ graduate skills are assessed by: theoretical, practical and oral assignments, attendance and punctuality, adhering to deadlines and evaluative writing. (Please refer back to statement in bold aligned to section A)

12. Programme structure (levels, modules, credits and progression requirements)

12. 1 Overall structure of the programme

The programme is studied over three years full –time. Study is, generally undertaken at three levels (one for each year of study.) There are 30 study weeks in each year. The programme structure is divided into study units called modules. Modules have a credit value of 30 or 60 credits according to the subject and nature of learning. Core Dance modules are generally 30/60 credits. Each 30 credit module represents approximately 300 hours of student learning, endeavour and assessment, with the number of teaching hours appropriate to the nature of the subject. Each level has an equivalent of 120 credits.

All students on the BA (Hons) Dance Performance programme explore the artistic, expressive and creative aspects of performance as well as the technique that is required for the dancer. Knowledge of anatomy and an appreciation of alternative training methods, which improve dance performance are an essential part of the programme. In the third year, students have the opportunity to perform in a substantial repertoire piece, community project or new work.

Year 1 provides students with a basis in terms of technique classes and theory. The knowledge and skills acquired during this year will set up the learning for second and third year. Technique and choreography components feed into and directly build up from year 1. Historical studies and Learning in Context set an academic framework for research, library study, essay writing and critical thinking.

Year 2 continues with the development of technique and choreography on a more elaborate level. Theoretical modules deepen knowledge of theory through the Critical Studies component and Dance Histories and Philosophies, where students will employ their learning from the previous year to engage with further debates in the discipline.

Year 3 sees independent work in form of the Independent Project, which utilises all prior skills of research, writing and argumentation. Technique will build up to professional standard of performance, whereas Choreography fosters creativity and interaction.

The modules within the programme, the levels at which they are studied and the credit ratings of modules are shown below. Details of each module can be found at www.mdx.ac.uk/arts

12.2 Levels and modules Level 4

COMPULSORY OPTIONAL PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS

Students must take all of the following:

DAN1001Dance Core 160gcp

DAN1002Dance Studies30gcp

DAN1100Dance: Learning in Context30gcp

There are no option choices for year one.

Successful completion of programme outcomes.

Level 5COMPULSORY OPTIONAL PROGRESSION

REQUIREMENTS

Students must take all of the following:

DAN2010Dance Core 260gcp

Students must also choose one from the following:

DAN2011Jazz Dance30gcp

DAN2012Body/Mind/Movement30gcp

PlusStudents must also choose one from the following:

DAN2013Dance Histories and Philosophies30gcp

DAN2014Science of Movement 130gcp

Successful completion of Level Two Dance Core Modules plus successful completion of optional modules (compensation at discretion of the Dance subject assessment board and in accordance with the university regulations)

Level 6

COMPULSORY OPTIONAL PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS

Students must take all of the following:

DAN3100Technique 30gcpand DAN3200Performance30gcp

DAN3700Professional Studies30gcp*

DAN3800Independent Project30gcp

* Optional Components of DAN3700a) Teaching Dance Technique (TDT)b) Placementc) Science of Movement 2

Successful completion of Level Three Dance Core Module plus successful completion of Independent Project

(Compensation of optional component(s) is at the discretion of the Dance Subject assessment board in accordance to the university regulations)

12.3 Non-compensatable modules (note statement in 12.2 regarding FHEQ levels)

Module level Module codeLevel 4 DAN1001Level 5Level 6Level 6Level 6

DAN2010DAN3100/3200DAN3700DAN3800

13. Curriculum mapSee Curriculum Map attached

14. Information about assessment regulations100% attendance is a pre-requisite for assessment in all Dance Modules. Please see University Guide and Regulations for further assessment information UniHub.

15. Placement opportunities, requirements and support (if applicable)All students have the opportunity to undertake a work placement in their final year of study. This optional component (part of DAN3700) is supported by both the module leader and the University’s Placement Officer.

16. Future careers (if applicable)The future personal and professional achievements of graduates will rely on the acquisition of a wide range of knowledge, skills, attributes and abilities. Common destinations for current graduates include the professional arts, with former students working both independently and with leading companies; Flawless, Vocab Dance Company, Uchenna Dance Company, CandoCo, Zoonation, Amici Dance Theatre, Earthfall Dance Theatre Company and Akram Khan; the entertainment industries, applied arts, education, with a high percentage of graduates now taking Head of Dance and other teaching posts across the country; community work, again independently and for Dance United, Northern School of Contemporary Dance (Education and Community Department), Dance4, Apex Dance, DanceDigital, and Local Education Authorities, the health and fitness industry, arts administration, writing for leading dance journals in the UK; scholarship, postgraduate study and the media industries. ‘Graduateness’ in the Performing Arts field in

general cannot be defined in the singular but will involve a range of both subject specific and general skills. The transferable skills of graduates are those much sought after in other environments such as business and commerce. These skills include those of creative ingenuity and vision; communication (written, oral, performance); research and analysis; the ability to work independently, interpersonally and in groups, to deadlines and under pressure, with flexibility, imagination, self-motivation and organisation.

17. Particular support for learning (if applicable) Induction programme for orientation and introducing subject-

specific study skills and practices. All students are allocated an Academic Adviser. Dance Handbook and module outlines for every module with

schedule of sessions and assessment criteria and details. Learning Resource facilities. Access to Teaching and Learning Support Services, which

provide assistance and guidance e.g. Dyslexia support. Access to careers service. Access to Student Finance Support. Students have open access to departmental staff. Access to University guidance counsellors.

18. JACS code (or other relevant coding system)135W500

19. Relevant QAA subject benchmark group(s)

20. Reference pointsThe following reference points were used in designing the Programme

Professional dance practice and intellectual debate, the inter-relationship of which sustains the dynamic development of the discipline. Reports from national dance umbrella bodies.

QAA subject Review Overview reports on Dance, Drama and Cinematics.

Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Subject benchmarking statement.

University Learning and Teaching policies and strategy. University Regulations.

21. Other information

Opportunity for Study abroad. Performance opportunities on campus and, if possible, at Arts

Depot in Year 3. Links to independent Choreographic Platforms. Guest lecturers / choreographers from a variety of disciplines

and backgrounds. Lively Performing Arts Campus with students from Drama,

Music, Art and Design. Insight into performance production through engagement with

front of house, lighting and costume aspects of theatre production.

Please note programme specifications provide a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve if she/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information about the programme can be found in the programme handbook and the University Regulations.

Curriculum map for BA Dance PerformanceThis section shows the highest level at which programme outcomes are to be achieved by all graduates, and maps programme learning outcomes against the modules in which they are assessed.

Programme learning outcomesKnowledge and understanding Practical skillsA1 The technical experience and artistic aspect of dance

performanceC1 Technical and expressive skills of dance performance

A2 The key principles related to the craft of performing, dance technique, artistic interpretation

C2 Creation and composition of choreography

A3 Selected alternative training methods which improve dance performance

C3 Assimilate diverse processes of dance making e.g. collaborative, repertoire, choreographer directed

A4 The technical theatre arts which contribute to the creation and realisation of dance production

C4 Production skills

A5 The key characteristics of selected contemporary theatre dance form and related activities and how these can provide performance skills which contribute to the creation of appropriate technical/artistic vocabularies for performance

C5 Inter-personal and collaborative skills

A6 Historical and contemporary contexts for dance such as the artistic, social, educational and institutional

C6 Appropriate research skills

A7

A8

A9

Key practitioners and writers who have contributed to the development of dance through theoretical debate and practical activityPertinent critical and cultural issues and perspectives which enhance the appreciation of dance and the ability to contribute to those debates through informed opinion.Where appropriate, other artistic and cultural practices which influence the creation and critical appraisal of dance.

C7

Cognitive skills Graduate SkillsB1 Synthesise, analyse, evaluate, interpret, as appropriate,

practical and theoretical knowledge and the inter-relationship between the two

D1 Communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals using a variety of means

B2 Select and critically evaluate source material and a variety of types of information and evidence

D2 Evaluate her/his own academic and practical performance

B3 Apply practical and theoretical knowledge in appropriate contexts

D3 Utilise problem-solving skills in a variety of theoretical and practical situations

B4 D4 Manage change effectively and respond to changing demands

B5 D5 Manage time, prioritise workloads and recognise and manage personal emotions

B6 D6 Utilise information management skills, e.g. ICT skills

B7 D7 Numeric Skills

Programme outcomes A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7

Highest level achieved by all graduates3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 1/3

Module Title Module Codeand Level

Programme outcomes

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

A8

A9

B1

B2

B3

C1

C2

C3

C4

C5

C6

D1

D2

D3

D4

D5

D6

D7

Dance Core 1 DAN1001 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Dance Studies DAN1002 X X X X X X X X X X

Dance: Learning in Context DAN1100 X X X X X X X X X X

Dance Core 2 DAN2010 X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Jazz Dance DAN2011 X X X

Body/ Mind/Movement DAN2012 X X X

Dance Histories and Cultures DAN2013 X X X X X X

Science of Movement 1 DAN2014 X X X X X X

Technique and Performance DAN3100/DAN3200

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Professional Studies DAN3700 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Independent Project DAN3800 X X X X X