Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Film Production I
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: CLP11170
Module leader: Iain Davie
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Screen and Performance
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

Film Production 1 is the first of two modules designed to provide students with a range of practical opportunities to engage in film-making projects from an actor-centred perspective. Through a series of lectures and workshops, students will develop skills in self-taping for auditions, short film planning and production (including technical elements), and pre- and post-production processes.Practical assessment will include self-taped exercises and the performance of a short two-minute filmed scene, which students will help to plan and produce in collaboration with staff. This will involve responsibilities such as art direction, securing locations, and coordinating shooting days. In addition, students will begin work on three-minute film projects produced in collaboration with MFA Film students or academic staff, introducing professional collaborative screen production practices within a postgraduate context.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Conceive, critically appraise, and realise scene-based film project proposals, evidencing advanced understanding of logistical planning, creative intention, and practical feasibility.

LO2: Critically apply a range of acting skills and techniques for bringing text alive in script development contexts and in the context of creating short film performances.

LO3: Apply and critically integrate theoretical approaches to the preparation, execution, and sustainment of performance choices in recorded media.

LO4: Critically reflect on your own screen performance skills.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Catriona MacInnes
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 48 Learning and teaching on this module are practice led and collaborative, reflecting professional screen production environments. You will work in groups and across a range of collaborative contexts to develop, produce, and perform in multiple film making projects. Central to the module is the selection of a short filmed scene, in which you will perform while also taking responsibility for key production elements, including logistical planning and coordination, under the guidance of academic staff. You will engage in structured peer assessment of collaborators during the two minute filmed scene project, supporting critical awareness of group working processes, professional conduct, and individual contribution. Through this work, students will develop an understanding of basic production strategies alongside fundamental technical skills in film production, situating their acting practice within an informed production context. The module also focuses on the development of professional self taping skills, with you expected to apply best practice in both performance and self filming contexts. These skills support autonomy as performers and emerging screen practitioners. The final filmed performance involves collaboration with MA Film Directing students or academic staff on a short film project, offering students the opportunity to apply and sustain detailed performance choices within a professional screen production framework. Throughout the module, you will be required to critically reflect on and analyse your screen performance techniques, evidencing development over time and explicitly referencing acting techniques and practitioners that have informed your process. Inclusive Teaching Approach: This module is taught through an inclusive, practice‑led approach that recognises students learn in different ways and bring diverse strengths to their work. Learning takes place through a combination of workshops, collaborative film projects, self‑taped performance tasks, and guided production roles, allowing students to engage creatively, practically, and reflectively. The emphasis on collaboration, process, and supported skill‑building ensures all students can contribute meaningfully, develop confidence on screen, and progress at an appropriate pace within a professional yet supportive learning environment.
Online GROUPIND_STUDY 137 Independent study is a key component of this module and should be used to prepare for practical work through research into screen acting techniques and practitioners, script analysis, and production planning. You are expected to develop self‑taping skills, prepare performances, and contribute to production tasks such as location research and shoot organisation. Reflection on feedback and your ongoing development as a screen actor should inform your practice throughout the module.
Online Guided independent study 15 Reading week: No teaching will take place during Reading Week. This week is intended to support reflection on and consolidation of your practice and learning. The module leader will offer guidance to inform and support the development of your practice during this time.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Report 15 4 Week 14 , WORDS= 1500 words You are required to write a 1500-word reflective paper (+/- 10%) on your screen acting process. This is an opportunity to critically evaluate your development, identify areas for growth, and reflect on the challenges you’ve encountered. OR As an alternative to the written reflective paper, you may submit a reflective PowerPoint presentation that communicates the same critical and reflective content in a visually supported format. This assessment provides an opportunity to critically evaluate your screen acting process, reflect on your development, identify challenges, and consider areas for future growth.
Report 10 1~2~4 Week 14 , WORDS= 1000 As part of this project, you will be assessed on your collaboration, professionalism, and contribution throughout the process of selecting, rehearsing and filming a 2min Film Scene. You will also be asked to evaluate all members of your group, including yourself.
Practical Skills Assessment 15 1~2~3 Week 6 HOURS= 2min Record your self-tape using the provided scene.
Practical Skills Assessment 30 1~2~3 Week 12 HOURS= 2min You are required to source and prepare a short 2min naturalistic film or TV scene to be shot as part of your screen acting assessment.
Practical Skills Assessment 30 1~2~3 Week 14 HOURS= 3-5min For this assessment, you will present a screen acted performance from your colaberative scene. This assessment gives you the opportunity to demonstrate the full range of screen acting skills developed during the module, including truthful characterisation, subtle emotional engagement, technical awareness of the camera, and the ability to sustain performance across takes.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Film Production I
 

Related information