Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Soundscapes
SCQF level: 10:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: IMD10112
Module leader: Iain McGregor
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Applied Informatics
Prerequisites

Requisites: Pre-requisite: [Module IMD09148] Sound Design
Description of module content:

In this module, you will develop a critical understanding of how sound functions in a range of perceptual, cultural, and design contexts. The module begins with an investigation into the physical behaviour of sound—through vibration, waveforms, and transmission—before progressing to psychoacoustics, where you will examine the mechanisms of hearing and the cognitive processes involved in auditory perception. Topics include attention, memory, and the influence of context on interpretation, alongside the concept of cognitive load and how sound can enhance or disrupt understanding in complex, interactive environments. Listening is explored as a situated and embodied experience, shaped by language, spatial awareness, and the acoustic character of everyday environments. The relationship between sound and identity, memory, and place is considered alongside the ethical, inclusive, and sustainable dimensions of sound design. Particular attention is given to accessibility, hearing diversity, and the needs of non-trained listeners. Throughout the module, you will apply research-informed methods—such as sound mapping, listening diaries, and user interviews—to analyse listening behaviours and inform your creative practice. These insights will support the development and evaluation of an original sound design for linear or interactive media, such as a short film, immersive installation, or interactive application. By the end of the module, you will be able to approach sound design as a reflective, research-informed practitioner, capable of making creative and evidence-based decisions for diverse listening contexts.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Analyse the physical behaviour of sound—including vibration, waveform, and transmission—and evaluate its perceptual and spatial implications in designed listening experiences.

LO2: Critically evaluate research and theory relating to auditory perception, psychoacoustics, and the cognitive dimensions of listening, with reference to sound design practice.

LO3: Apply psychoacoustic principles to the design and realisation of original sound for linear or interactive media, demonstrating a reflective and user-centred approach.

LO4: Design and carry out listener evaluations with non-specialist audiences, synthesising qualitative insights to assess the clarity, impact, and communicative success of your sound design.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 1, 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: Iain McGregor
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Tutorial 20 Tutorials provide a structured space for students to present work-in-progress, apply lecture content, and engage in critical discussion. Preparation each week includes accessible materials and thoughtful contributions. Emphasis is placed on constructive critique and collaborative problem-solving. Tutorial participation is both formative and summative, contributing 10% to the final module grade while supporting ongoing development.
Independent Learning Lecture 60 Pre-recorded guest lectures provide insight into contemporary sound design from a range of professional, cultural, and disciplinary perspectives. These asynchronous sessions support independent learning and critical reflection, offering students broader context for their own practice. The content enriches the module by reinforcing learning outcomes related to research–practice integration, global outlook, and employability.
Online Guided independent study 100 Guided independent study supports the development and completion of assessed work. Students are expected to engage critically with lecture content, tutorial feedback, and independent research to inform their creative and evaluative decisions. This phase allows time for planning, experimentation, refinement, and reflection, and is essential for producing work that meets the academic and professional standards expected at Honours level.
Face To Face Lecture 20 In-person lectures introduce key theoretical concepts, including acoustics, psychoacoustics, and auditory perception. These tutor-led sessions provide a structured foundation for independent study and sound design work. Students are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the material, allowing delivery to remain responsive to the group’s needs. Content is supported by bespoke materials and examples, and underpins learning outcomes related to sound analysis, listening, and creative practice.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Project - Practical 90 1~2~3~4 Week 13 HOURS= 100 hours This assessment focuses on the creation of an original soundscape that synthesises theoretical understanding, perceptual insight, and creative practice. Students are required to design, develop, and implement a soundscape that demonstrates the application of key concepts covered in the module, including psychoacoustics, cognitive load, spatial listening, and inclusive approaches to sound design. The project should be situated within a specific media or public context, with the design tailored to the intended audience and listening environment.The assessment places strong emphasis on the integration of research and practice. Students are expected to undertake independent inquiry to inform the conceptual framing of their work, drawing on academic sources, case studies, and industry examples. The soundscape must be developed iteratively, with documentation of the design process, experimentation, and technical refinement. Feedback from non-specialist listeners should be actively sought and critically evaluated, demonstrating an awareness of accessibility, diversity of listening experience, and user perspective.Students will be assessed on their ability to make informed and reflective creative decisions, communicate their design rationale clearly, and achieve a sound outcome that is technically proficient, contextually appropriate, and conceptually engaging. Final submissions should reflect a professional standard of presentation and demonstrate the student’s ability to work independently, apply critical judgement, and meet the expectations of Honours-level study. Consideration will also be given to the originality, coherence, and communicative impact of the final soundscape.
Discussion/Participation 10 1~2~3~4 Week 12 HOURS= 20 This assessment component recognises the student’s active and sustained engagement with the tutorial process, with an emphasis on preparation, professionalism, and meaningful contribution to both individual and peer development. Students are required to present work-in-progress that responds to the weekly topic, drawing on lecture content, directed study, and independent research. Materials must be accessible—ideally via cloud-based storage—to support version control and enable effective group discussion.Assessment focuses on students’ ability to participate in critical dialogue with relevance, clarity, and care. Contributions should demonstrate active listening, a respectful exchange of ideas, and the capacity to offer constructive, well-reasoned feedback. Particular importance is placed on supporting the progress of others through thoughtful critique, practical suggestions, and the sharing of relevant resources. Students are expected to contribute in a manner that reflects inclusive, ethical, and professional standards, and to engage with the collective development of the group as a learning community.This component prepares students for collaborative working environments in sound design and related creative industries, where reflective practice, critical engagement, and mutual support are essential to successful project development. Assessment is based on the consistency and quality of participation, as well as the student’s ability to apply feedback and demonstrate progression in their work.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Soundscapes
 

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