Student Handbook

BA (Hons) Sports Journalism 2015/16

School of Journalism and Media

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in terms of support, and in return what we expect from our students. Read the full Student

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contribute to creating a positive environment where discriminatory practices and discrimination no longer happen.

Please review the UCLan Equality and Diversity Policy for further information.

Course Content

1. Introduction to the course……………………………………………..4

2. Structure of the course…………………………………………………7

3. Approaches to teaching and learning………………………………19

4. Student support, guidance and conduct…………………………...22

5. Assessment……………………………………………………………...24

6. Course regulations……………………………………………………..28

7. Student voice……………………………………………………………29

8. Appendices

8. 1 Approved programme specification

8.2 The Matthew Hesketh Memorial Award

8.3 Making contact with football clubs and other sports organisations

8.4 The Grading Scheme 8.5 Placements

9. Fee Information

1. Introduction to the course

1.1 Welcome to the course

Welcome to the Sports Journalism course at the University of Central Lancashire. Sport is a multi-billion pound global industry which impacts significantly on politics, business, finance and countless other aspects of life including the personal happiness - and frequently misery - of everyone who supports a favourite team or club. Sport is also a dynamic driving force of the nation’s wellbeing, inspiring people of all ages to care for their fitness and nutrition, and to take part in activities at grassroots level. There has never been greater demand for people who can report what is taking place in this multi-faceted world, people who can ask the right questions at the right time in the right places, who can describe compelling action, discuss high-profile controversies and provide a demanding public with accurate information around the clock. The course introduces you to all of this and equips you with the multi-media skills required to work as a sports journalist when you leave university. Your learning starts with this handbook. You are setting out into unknown territory and this is the map that will guide your progress. It is a journey with many twists and turns and, probably, some unexpected difficulties. Thorough study of the handbook will ensure that you have a clear picture of where you are going and where you are at any particular time. You will see that as the course progresses there are opportunities for you to pursue options and other avenues that enable you to direct your own learning. We hope you will take full advantage of these to enhance and extend your learning and opportunities for the future.

1.2 Rationale, aims and learning outcomes of the course

The BA (Hons) Sports Journalism course is ideal for students intending to become sports journalists in the multi-media world, incorporating skills required to operate successfully in print, radio, TV and online formats. It is also highly appropriate for those seeking advanced communication skills and knowledge of the theories and practice of the sports news media. The course is made up of 18 modules and you will study six modules in each of the three years. You will be expected to have passed all your module assessments before being allowed to progress to the next year. All students take several compulsory modules in the first year of the course. You will study practical journalism and sport. You are also asked to make a choice for your remaining module. In the second year you will choose one option from a range of modules to complement your core modules. All students study law for journalists. In the third year of the degree you will specialise in EITHER print and online sports journalism OR broadcast sports journalism. You will have the chance to take the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) qualifying examinations in sports journalism, law, and shorthand if you wish. The course was accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC) in 2009. We were the first undergraduate Sports Journalism course to have this kitemark of quality. It was renewed for a further three years in 2013.

Aims of the Course

To develop sports journalism practitioners who are independent thinkers and doers

To enable students to acquire the necessary skills, competencies and reasoning skills to move confidently from the course to a journalism career

To encourage the development of critical thinking, reasoning skills and independence of thought

To provide a learning environment for personal development and growth both as an individual and as a contributor to teams and groups

Learning Outcomes By the end of the course, this is what we expect you to have learned as a result of the teaching you receive:

Knowledge of the development, structures and operation of the sports media

Understanding of theoretical and conceptual issues which relate to sports journalism

Understanding of how a journalist works, what news and sports news are and how they are

obtained written, presented and edited

Knowledge of legal, economic, ethical and regulatory controls on sports production.

Ability to analyse sport from an historical, structural and socio-cultural perspective to underpin journalistic practice/investigation/writing.

Demonstrate personal effectiveness in a selection process for your chosen career.

A complete description of the Learning Outcomes of the course can be found in Appendix 1.

QUOTE: “The only form of critical writing in print I can think of in which performances

are routinely – and often exquisitely and poetically – described is the football match report.

Even the lowliest match is likely to run to several hundred words more than even the biggest

West End opening” – Guardian arts critic LYN GARDNER

1.3 Course Team

Xxxx Xxxxx (Course Leader and Senior Lecturer)

Office: GR 243 Direct line: 01772 895041 e-mail: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Charlie Lambert (Senior Lecturer)

Office: GR 232 Direct line: 01772 894739 e-mail: clambert@uclan.ac.uk

Peter Stevenson (Lecturer)

Office: GR235 e-mail: pjstevenson@uclan.ac.uk

1.4 Academic Advisors

Each student has a member of staff designated as their Academic Advisor. In the first and

second years this will be any one of the teaching staff. In the third year it will be your route

leader. The role of the Academic Advisor is not to deal with assignment issues - this is a matter for

your module tutor and should be raised at an appropriate seminar session. The Academic

Advisors provide initial pastoral care, including problems that may affect your work. Think of

your Academic Advisor as a ‘wise friend’, someone who knows the university and its

academic regulations, and to whom you can turn for advice. It may not be appropriate for

your Academic Advisor to deal with your problems - personal counselling is a job best left to

Student Services or the Health Centre - but they should be able to direct you to an

appropriate source of advice. First year students will normally be contacted by their

Academic Advisor within the first few weeks and invited for a meeting. If you do not hear

from your Academic Advisor within the first month, please contact the Administration Hub

(see section 1.5 for contact details).

1.5 Administration Hub

Campus Admin Services provides academic administration support for students and staff and

are located at CM235. The hub is open from 8.45am until 5.15pm Monday to Thursday and

until 4.00pm on Fridays. The hub can provide general assistance and advice regarding specific

processes such as extenuating circumstances, extensions and appeals. Course specific

information is also available via school blackboard sites.

The hub telephone number is 01772 891994/1995

The hub email contact is candthub@uclan.ac.uk

1.6 Communication

The University expects you to use your UCLan email address and check regularly for messages from staff. If you send us email messages from other addresses they risk being filtered out as potential spam and discarded unread. It is important for us all to keep in touch. Beyond lectures and seminars your tutors will contact you via email, Blackboard, and the notice boards in the Greenbank building. Different tutors may favour different systems: for some, email is the usual conduit, others make extensive use of Blackboard. Both are used for general messages, timetable changes, tutorial times, news of guest speakers and job vacancies. You will find the notice board for Sports Journalism in the second floor corridor, to the right of the staff office corridor as you approach from the lifts.

1.7 External Examiner

The University has appointed an External Examiner to your course who helps to ensure that

the standards of your course are comparable to those provided at other higher education

institutions in the UK. The name of this person, their position and home institution can be

found below. If you wish to make contact with your External Examiner, you should do this

through your Course Leader and not directly. External Examiner reports will be made

available to you electronically. The School will also send a sample of student coursework to

the external examiner(s) for external moderation purposes, once it has been marked and

internally moderated by the course tutors. The sample will include work awarded the highest

and lowest marks and awarded marks in the middle range.

External examiner: Andrew James – Nottingham Trent University

QUOTE: “It was David Coleman’s passion as a commentator that convinced me the Olympics mattered” – Daily Telegraph columnist SARAH CROMPTON

2. Structure of the course

2.1 Overall structure

You are studying for an honours degree. Putting it at its simplest this means that you are

expected to:-

Engage in critical thought, using conceptual and theoretical frameworks.

Carry out practical work at a high level, demonstrating an appreciation of contexts and issues.

Learn independently.

Although this is a vocational degree it is important that you appreciate it is considerably

more than a simple ‘how-to-do-it’ training course. You are expected to learn the practical skills

of sports journalism whilst reflecting on the organisational, social, cultural, political and economic

contexts of sport and sports journalism. This is more simply summed up by one of the

department’s key aims: to produce reflective practitioners.

Year one is an introductory level which lays out the basic concepts, methods and contexts of

journalism practice, journalism study, and the study of sport, as well as giving you the opportunity

to learn shorthand and carry out practical exercises in sports journalism.

Year two extends and develops your journalism skills, introduces the detailed study of sports

journalism from the perspectives of print, online and broadcast, and seeks evidence of an

increasingly analytical and questioning approach to issues raised by journalism practices.

Year three modules are designed to extend your practical skills to industry-entry level

and test your independent judgment and critical awareness of sports journalism issues.

It is also designed to prepare you for the workplace.

Year 1

SEM 1 SEM 2

Reporting Skills

JN1014

Single Module

Creating Content

JN1016

Single Module

Broadcast Skills

JN1015

Single Module

Multi-platform Journalism

JN1017

Single Module

The Sporting Infrastructure (All year)

TL1035

Single module

And one of these:

Shorthand for Journalists (All year)

JN1005

Single module

The Making of Modern Sport (All year)

TL1036

Single module

Year 2

All Year

Sports Journalism Practice

JN2054

Double module

Law for Journalists

LA2913

Single module

Semester One Semester Two

The Digital Landscape

JN2050

Single module

Current Issues in Sport

TL2115

Single module

Plus one from: JN2033 International Journalism (Sem 1), FI2202 Football and the Media,

TL2002 (Sem 2) Sports Marketing & Promotion (Sem 2).

Year 3

All Year

EITHER

JN3051

Advanced Newspaper and Online Sports Journalism

Double module

OR

JN3052

Advanced Broadcast Sports Journalism

Double module

Semester One Semester Two

JN3046

Placement and portfolio

Single module

JN3025

Journalism Ethics & Regulation

Single module

PLUS TWO FROM: JN3993 Sports Journalism Project (All year), CC3002 Football and

Communication (Sem 1), FI3111 Football and Popular Culture (Sem 2), PR3112 Sports

Public Relations (Sem 1), TL3076 Sport in the Global Village (Sem 2), TL3031 The Sporting

Image (Sem 1)

2.2 Modules available

YEAR ONE

Reporting Skills

(JN 1014)

Module value: Single Module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester one.

Assessment: Coursework tests and projects.

Module leader: Julie Freer

This practical module introduces you to the practical skills of journalism and is designed to enable students to understand what news is and how it should be reported, written and presented. Students are introduced to media law and other constraints journalists face in reporting stories. At the end of this module, students should be able to demonstrate awareness of news stories and events in a written test, produce a well-structured clear, accurate and balanced news story demonstrating the use of news values and new angles in story construction and analyse the legal and ethical constraints under which a professional journalist works.

Creating Content

(JN1016)

Broadcast Skills

(JN1015)

Module value: Single Module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester two.

Assessment: Coursework tests and projects.

Module leader: Julie Freer

This module is designed to enable students to find, research and write content for different audiences, to develop students’ interviewing skills and to allow students to apply their knowledge of media law and ethical constraints when creating content. It also aims to enable students to apply their writing skills to their own personal development and to develop self-awareness about future careers. At the end of this module the student should be able to write well-structured clear, accurate and balanced news and features content, demonstrate story gathering and research skills through reporting assignments, apply knowledge of the constraints under which a professional journalist works and apply professional writing skills to personal development by creating a personal CV and covering letter.

Module value : Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester one

Assessment: Group and individual practical assessments

Module leader: Delwyn Swingewood

Multi-platform

Journalism

(JN1017)

The Sporting

Infrastructure

(TL1035)

This module introduces students to broadcast journalism and the editorial and technical skills required in a professional environment and aims to develop the student’s ability to work professionally as an individual and as part of a team. By the end of the module the student should be able to demonstrate the newsgathering process for broadcast journalism, demonstrate the ability to write for broadcast media and demonstrate the technical and editorial skills required to generate content for broadcast media. Students should display the ability to work confidently and efficiently as an individual and as part of a team.

Module value : Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester two

Assessment: Group and individual practical assessments

Module leader: Andy Dickinson

This module is designed to introduce students to the practical skills of multi-platform production and to enable students to understand the development and unique opportunities offered by existing and emerging digital and online platforms. It aims to develop students’ understanding of the impact multi-platform has on professional standards and practice. On successful completion of the module the student should be in a position to research and write news stories suitable for distribution on a range of digital platforms. They should be able to create and produce editorial content and graphics for multi-platforms using multi-media techniques and understand the changing role of a journalist in a multi-platform world and apply this to their own practice

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: All year

Assessment: Assessed seminar and in-class test

Module leader: John Stoszkowski

The aim of this module is to provide students with a working knowledge and understanding of the major frameworks and delivery structures that support the provision and development of sport and physical activity within the UK. On successful completion of this module students should be able to identify and explain the agencies and structures pertaining to the delivery of sport and physical activity in the UK, identify and evaluate the inter-relationship between policy, funding and administrative structures and recognise and evaluate the role of agencies and professionals in supporting varying aspects of the participation – excellence continuum.

Shorthand for

Journalists

(JN1005)

The Making of Modern Sport (TL1036)

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: All Year

Assessment: Practical assessments

Module leader: Pat Brand

On completion of this module students will be able to write shorthand

at a range of speeds between 80 – 120 wpm for 4 minutes. They

should be able to transcribe their shorthand notes accurately within a

time constraint and with an error tolerance of three percent.

Students will also be tested on their ability to identify and accurately

transcribe a key quote at speeds of 90 – 120 wpm

All students who are serious about pursuing a career in sports

journalism are encouraged to take this option as shorthand is a key

tool to possess in this industry.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: All year

Assessment: Literature Review and presentation

Module leader: Daniel Nuttall

The aim of this module is to provide the student with an understanding of the roots and subsequent development of modern sport. There is a particular emphasis on the social influences that have shaped modern society and the module encourages the students to evaluate the development of sport whilst looking at these wider social changes. Looking at history in this dynamic way will help the students examine issues related to the structure and organisation of domestic sport, international sport and professional sport in contemporary society.

.

YEAR TWO

ALL STUDENTS

Sports Journalism

Practice

(JN2054)

Module value: Double module (40 credits)

Duration: Semesters one and two

Assessment: Individual and Group radio projects; Group TV package

and individual essay; page design incorporating match report, interviews

and data graphic.

Module Leader: Colm Griffith

The module gives you a detailed introduction to the specific requirements

and practices of sports journalism. You will study the techniques and

disciplines of broadcast and print sports journalism, establishing a basic

foundation of knowledge which will inform your choice when required to

select either Print & Online or Broadcast route in Year 3.

The Digital Landscape

(JN 2050)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester one

Assessment: Presentation and multi-media project.

Module Leader: Andy Dickinson

This module aims to develop a critical awareness of a multitude of social media platforms, structures and networked landscapes. To critically explore the impact and existence of networked media, networking, and its impact on journalism practice and to critically analyse social media and develop innovative approaches to creating multi-platform content based on an developing understanding of a range of media tools and practice. It also aims to explore the emerging technologies, practice and issues in a changing digital landscape. On successful completion of this module students will be able to identify and critically assess new and existing social and networked

media practice, explore, assess and use a range of content creation tools to effectively communicate in a networked world, Critically examine the legal and ethical issues of practice in a changing digital landscape and Critically reflect on contemporary and emerging social media practice.

Current Issues in

Sport

(TL2115)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester two

Assessment: Photo essay and group debate

Module Leader: Daniel Nuttall

The aim of this module is to provide the sports journalism student with an understanding of the various sociological and philosophical issues that are evident in contemporary sport. This examination will be underpinned by an understanding of relevant concepts to encourage critical thinking from the students. The module seeks to challenge sports journalism students to view contemporary issues in sports from different perspectives, encouraging students to critically reflect on their own experiences and those widely discussed in current media.

Law for Journalists (LA 2913)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester one and two

Assessment: Presentations and 3hr exam

Module Leader: TBC

The module aims to introduce the students to the English legal system and laws pertaining to the Media. The aim is to enable students to understand the relevant legal framework in which a journalist will work and acquire the legal knowledge required by the industry as it affects a journalist working in different media organisations. The module aims to develop an examination of the relevant legislation, cases, treaties and other legal instruments governing media law in the UK and where relevant Europe The course will commence with an overview of the English legal system generally before moving on to a more in-depth examination of each of the individual areas of medial law relevant to a journalism student.

PLUS ONE FROM:

International

Journalism (JN2033)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester One

Assessment: Project and exam

Module leader: George Ogola

This module aims to place the work of journalists in a global context, in terms of cultural and national differences in journalism regulation, organisation and practices, to provide students with an understanding of some of the key issues involved in reporting international affairs from within the UK and to explore the requirements of high quality reporting of international affairs.

Football and the

Media (JN2055)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester two

Assessment: Presentation, presentation report and essay

Module leader: Mick Gornall

This module is designed to introduce concepts and methodologies

relating to the theoretical study of the media, with the focus on

football. It aims to develop the analytical and critical skills with which

to examine the media, while providing an overview which permits a

context for textual analysis. In addition to evaluating the distinctive

characteristics of the media, the module will encourage the

undertaking of detailed close readings of specific media texts.

Examples will be drawn from the press, both national and specialist,

photojournalism, TV, cinema, radio, advertising, alternative media

and new media technologies.

Sports Marketing &

Promotion

(TL2002)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester Two

Assessment: Essay and business report

Module Leader: Leah Donlan

This module aims to develop contemporary marketing knowledge, skills and experiences in a range of sporting contexts and environments. This module will develop the students’ ability to identify, problem solve and deploy a range of sports marketing theories and practices in this rapidly developing area. Students will engage with a diverse range of marketing theory as related to the contemporary sport context. This will be complemented by developing a pragmatic understanding of the practical application of sports marketing strategies and tactics in the 21st century.

YEAR THREE

(ALL STUDENTS)

EITHER:

Advanced

Newspaper and

Online Sports

Journalism

(JN 3051)

Module value: Double module (40 credits).

Duration: Semesters one and two.

Assessment: Continuous assessment of The Score and individual

sports journalism portfolio

Module leader: Xxxx Xxxxx

This module is designed to equip students with relevant knowledge,

practical experience and skills to enable them to work as trainee sports

journalists and to enable them to meet the professional standards of entry

required by the newspaper and on-line industries. On successful

completion of this module the student will be able to make judgements

about multi-layered editorial issues and provide creative solutions within a

limited time frame, work effectively as a group member and leader,

communicate effectively in writing and verbally, undertake research,

reporting and effective writing for print and online sports media and

recognise and apply the requirements of effective story production, page

lay-out and newsroom production.

.

OR:

Advanced Broadcast

Sports Journalism

Practice

(JN3052)

Module value: Double module (40 credits).

Duration: Semesters one and two.

Assessment: Individual portfolios of radio and TV work, and Group

productions of radio and TV programmes

Module leader: Charlie Lambert

This module is designed to equip students with relevant knowledge,

practical experience and skills to enable them to work as trainee sports

journalists and to enable them to meet the professional standards of entry

required by the broadcast industries. On successful completion of this

module the student will be in a position to demonstrate they can work

confidently and efficiently as part of a team in a professional environment.

They will be able to demonstrate they have acquired the necessary

personal, technical and editorial skills, awareness and judgement in the

production of sports stories, features, commentaries and programmes for

radio and television and that they understand the roles and responsibilities

of journalists working in radio and television sports departments.

AND BOTH:

Journalism Ethics

and Regulation

(JN3025)

Work Placement and

Portfolio

(JN3046)

PLUS TWO FROM:

Sports Journalism

Project (JN3993)

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: Semester two

Assessment: Coursework, essay and final project Module leader: Delwyn Swingewood

This module is designed to enable students to recognise ethical

issues faced by journalists and, through analysis of practice codes

and their application, to make informed decisions on them in the

students’ practical work. On successful completion of the module the

student will have a sound knowledge of UK media regulations and

be capable of analysing critically the factors behind their

development and application, display an understanding of how the

regulatory codes work and be able to analyse complex ethical and

moral problems within a personal and professional framework.

Students will be able to relate the classical issues of ethics and

morality to the contemporary media world

Module value: Single module (20 credits)

Duration: All year

Assessment: Portfolio of professional practice and critical reflection Module leader: Debbie Robinson/Xxxx Xxxx/Charlie Lambert

This module is designed to enable students to put theory into practice and experience journalism and media practice in the workplace. Students will carry out research into media organisations and source opportunities for work experience. Once the work experience has been carried out they will be expected to critically analyse and reflect on their experience, including any published work during their time at university. On successful completion of the module, students will be able to show reflective learning and personal development, based on workplace experience and demonstrate professional behaviour and competence in journalism practice.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: All year

Assessment: Project, critique, supporting documentation

Module leader: Charlie Lambert

This module is designed to give students the opportunity to

undertake a substantial independent project by creating a major

piece of work. On successful completion of the module the student

will have developed, produced and, if necessary, serviced and

The Sporting Image

(TL3031)

Football and

Communication

(JN3053)

Sports Public

Relations

(PR3112)

Football and Popular

Culture (JN3054)

supported a complex sports journalism project. The student will show

advanced application of relevant journalism production processes

and develop, manage and critically assess their own skills and

processes.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester One.

Assessment: Essays Module leader: Iain Adams

The module invites you to look at sport from a different perspective.

It will scrutinise the portrayal of sport in literature, film, TV, art and

music. It will examine the historic portrayal of sport and ways in

which it has become an integral part of popular culture and

resonates with values and standards specific in time and place.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester one.

Assessment: Individual presentation, report and essay

Module leader: Mick Gornall

This module is designed to explore and examine the various

discourses at work within the world of football and to develop

analytical and critical skills by examining appropriate texts. It is also

designed to evaluate some of the social, political, economic and

cultural factors shaping the media’s presentation, and audience

consumption, of football. Students will have the opportunity to

undertake a substantial independent project by creating a major

piece of work in their chosen field.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester one.

Assessment: Essay and case study

Module leader: Huw Evans

Students will have the opportunity to appraise contemporary sports

public relations practice and to extend learning and development in

the context of the final year studies to individual career aspirations in

sports public relations, sports marketing or sports management.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester two.

Assessment: TBA

Module leader: Mick Gornall

Sport in the Global

Village

(TL3076)

This module aims to examine notions of ‘popular culture’ and their

application to football develop students’ skills in the analysis of

popular cultural sources/artefacts with a football content investigate

the changing place and significance of football within wider patterns

of popular culture.

Module value: Single module (20 credits).

Duration: Semester two.

Assessment: Essays and oral assessment

Module leader: Danny Nuttall

The aim of this module is to critically review and evaluate aspects of

sports culture, provision and organisational structures in different

countries. On successful completion of the course students will

employ geographical, historical, social-economic and political

theories and concepts to critically compare and contrast sport and

culture in societies, demonstrate the application of social and cultural

meaning to consumption of sport and also display critical insight into

organisations and structures responsible for sport and the political

ramifications.

2.2.1 Progression

Discussions about your progression through the course normally take place in February each year. It is an opportunity for you to make plans for your study over the next academic year. The course team will tell you about the various modules / combinations available and you will both agree on the most appropriate (and legal) course of study for you.

2.3 Study Time

2.3.1 Weekly timetable

Timetables for each year of study are accessible by each student individually through the university’s intranet. Go to MyUCLan and follow the link.

2.3.2 Expected hours of study

The normal amount of work involved in achieving a successful outcome to your studies is to study for 10 hours per each credit you need to achieve – this includes attendance at UCLan and time spent in private study. Sport by its very nature takes place in what, for most people, is leisure time. This of course is when sports journalists are required to work. On this course there will be many occasions when you will need to work at weekends and evenings in order to assemble reports and interviews.

2.3.3 Attendance Requirements

You are required to attend all timetabled learning activities for each module. Certain modules, including the Sports Journalism modules JN2054, JN3051 and JN3052, penalise poor attendance by loss of marks and, in extreme cases, failure of the module. If you miss a class through illness you must notify the relevant module leader. Exceptional requests for leave of absence must be made to the course leader, Colm Griffith. International students should be aware of their responsibilities under the UK Border Agency (UKBA), Points Based System (PBS). You MUST attend your course of study regularly; under PBS, UCLan is obliged to tell UKBA if you withdraw from a course, defer or suspend your studies, or if you fail to attend the course regularly. If you have not gained the required authorisation for leave of absence, do not respond to communications from the University and if you are absent for four weeks or more, you may be deemed to have withdrawn from the course. If this is the case, then the date of withdrawal will be recorded as the last day of attendance. Student attendance is monitored through a university data system called SAM (Student Attendance Monitoring). You can check your attendance record online through myUCLan. Each time you are asked to enter your details on SAM you must remember that the University has a responsibility to keep information up to date and that you must only enter your own details on the system. To enter any other names would result in inaccurate records and be dishonest. Any student who is found to make false entries can be disciplined under the student guide to regulations.

2.4 Data Protection

All of the personal information obtained from you and other sources in connection with your studies at the University will be held securely and will be used by the University both during your course and after you leave the University for a variety of purposes. These are all explained during the enrolment process at the commencement of your studies. If you would like a more detailed explanation of the University’s policy on the use and disclosure of personal information, please contact the Data Protection Liaison Officer, Strategic Development Service, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE.

Guest Speakers: Experts from the professional media like Eddie Hemmings, Sky Sports’ Rugby League presenter, are frequent visitors to the course.

3. Approaches to teaching and learning

3.1 Expertise of staff

Xxxx XXXXX is . . . . . . . . ..

Charlie Lambert joined the department as senior lecturer in sports journalism in 2006,

specialising in TV and radio. He leads JN3052, the course’s Year 3 broadcast module, and

also the Sports Journalism Project. He was leader of the course from 2006 to 2012. After

starting out as a print journalist Charlie had a 20-year career at the BBC, working as sports

reporter, presenter and producer for both TV and radio. He continues to work as a freelance

sports broadcaster.

Peter Stevenson is a regular presenter with Sky Sports and can often be seen reporting

from various sports grounds around the north west of England. He teaches on first module

JN1016 and second year sports journalism module JN2054 and provides students with a

genuine and up to date feel for the world of sports journalism as he divides his time between

the sports journalism industry and the university.

3.2 Learning and teaching methods

The syllabus includes practical elements, such as news judgement, news sources, sports reporting and writing skills, interviewing, and print, radio, TV and online production techniques. Journalism support subjects include shorthand, media law and ethics. Consideration of theories and perspectives of the role of sport journalists in society, the structure of sports organisations, ethical issues, communication studies and the relationships between journalists and the sports they cover underpin the practical elements of the course. This means that you will undertake a varied pattern of study and learning. At any one time you may be operating as a student journalist, producing sports news or reporting on sport in realistic newsroom conditions, while also examining and considering academic approaches to political, economic, social and cultural aspects of sport and sports journalism. You are expected to make full use of resources in the Library and online to prepare for classes and to follow up your classes in your own time.

3.3 Study skills

WISER, based in Fylde Building, offers a range of specialist, free sessions and courses to help you develop your study skills. These range from essay writing to time management. Check them out in Fylde Room 315 or visit WISER on the UCLan website. WISER https://portal.uclan.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_33_1 LIS https://portal.uclan.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_25_1

3.4 Learning resources

3.4.1 Learning Information Services (LIS)

Extensive Resources are available to support your studies provided by LIS – library and IT staff. Take advantage of the free training sessions designed to enable you to gain all the skills you need for your research and study.

3.4.2 Electronic Resources

LIS provide access to a huge range of electronic resources – e-journals and databases, e-books, images and texts. You will be expected to use Blackboard (formerly known as WebCT or e-learn) to keep up to speed with many of your modules.

3.5 Personal development planning

To help you with your learning you will carry out a process of Personal Development

Planning (PDP).

Personal Development Planning is a supported and structured process to help you

understand more about how you learn and what you learn. It encourages you to review, plan

and take responsibility for your own learning to improve your personal, educational and

career development.

Personal Development Planning provides you with opportunities to reflect on what you are

learning on the course and during your time at university, identify your strengths and

weaknesses and to develop your own strategies to further improve your performance. It

gives you a framework to record your activities and actions and forms the basis for your

career development by providing evidence of the development of a wide range of skills and

experiences that are sought by employers and which will aid your advancement in the

workplace.

Personal Development Planning is a process that only you can fully undertake as it calls

upon you to constantly reflect on what you do and how you do it. It is a process that is similar

to, and often linked with, your subject specific learning. On this course you are required to

carry out practical sports journalism tasks and to reflect on how and why these are done,

what the consequences are and ways they could be better done. Personal Development

Planning is the same process, but in relation to yourself – you are required to carry out

learning tasks and to reflect on what you learned and how, what the consequences are and

ways they could be better done.

At the start of the course there will be an explanation of Personal Development Planning.

You will be expected to start and maintain your progress file which will contain transcripts of

assignments and other feedback. It is important that you record you activities as a learner

and make notes that reflect on your experiences and the actions you took to resolve

problems and achieve success.

You should bring this file to meetings with your Academic Advisor, who will ask you to talk

about your learning and how you are developing plans to improve it.

In individual modules seminars will be included that will ask you to reflect on your

approaches to subject learning (for instance, how you have related practical journalism

experiences to communication theory) and how you reacted to different learning techniques

(for instance, working in groups, making presentations, compiling portfolios).

More information of PDP from the Learning Development Unit.

3.6 Preparing for your career

Your future is important to us, so to make sure that you achieve your full potential whilst at

university and beyond, your course has been designed with employability learning integrated

into it at every level. This is not extra to your degree, but an important part of it which will

help you to show future employers just how valuable your degree is. These “Employability

Essentials” take you on a journey of development that will help you to write your own

personal story of your time at university:

To begin with, you will explore your identity, your likes and dislikes, the things that

are important to you and what you want to get out of life.

Later, you will investigate a range of options including jobs and work experience,

postgraduate study and self- employment,

You will then be ready to learn how to successfully tackle the recruitment process.

You will be able to record your journey using Pebblepad, the university’s e-portfolio system,

which will leave you with a permanent record of all the fantastic things you have achieved

during your time at UCLan.

It’s your future: take charge of it!

Careers offers a range of support for you including:-

career and employability advice and guidance appointments

support to find work placements, internships, voluntary opportunities, part-time employment and live projects

workshops, seminars, modules, certificates and events to develop your skills Daily drop in service available from 10.30am-3pm for CV checks and initial careers information. For more information come along and visit the team (in Foster building near the main entrance) or access our careers and employability resources via the Student Portal.

Moving on: Alumni Alec Fenn (Freelance sports reporter), Steward Hudson (Blackpool FC assistant secretary) and Greg Farrimond (Wigan Observer) pictured in the press box at

Wigan’s DW Stadium. All three graduated from the Sports Journalism course.

4. Student support, guidance and conduct The Administration Hub (see section 1.5 for contact details) is in Greenbank 001 and they can help with general support and advice. The School student liaison office is in Harris Building 124 and also can be reached at SLOAHSS@uclan@ac.uk. Your course and module leaders can also offer support and guidance during posted hours and by appointment.

4.1 Academic Advisors

The roles of the Academic Advisor are explained in paragraph 1.4 of this handbook. You will be asked to attend scheduled tutorials in your first year. You will usually gain more from these sessions if you take some time to prepare in advance, thinking about any issues which you may want to raise. You can request a meeting with your personal advisor or Academic Advisor at any time – you do not have to wait for an invitation.

4.2 Student Support

The 'i' is a central Student Information Centre and your first point of contact. You can obtain information on a wide range of topics including Council Tax Exemption Certificates, Bank and Confirmation of Study Letters, Portable Financial Credits, (continuing students only, Printing and Printer Credit, UCLan Cards, the ‘i’ shop and UCLan Financial Support Bursary (first year students only).

4.3 Students with disabilities

If you have a disability that may affect your studies, please either contact the Disability Advisory Service - disability@uclan.ac.uk - or let one of the course team know as soon as possible. With your agreement information will be passed on to the Disability Advisory Service. The University will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate your needs and to provide appropriate support for you to complete your study successfully. Where necessary, you will be asked for evidence to help identify appropriate adjustments.

Assessment arrangements for students with a disability

Arrangements are made for students who have a disability/learning difficulty for which valid supporting evidence can be made available. Contact the Disability Adviser for advice and information, disability@uclan.ac.uk. Helen Jones is the contact in the School of Journalism, Communication and Media for students with disabilities: hljones@uclan.ac.uk

4.4 Health and Safety

As a student of the University you are responsible for the safety of yourself and for that of others around you. You must understand and follow all the regulations and safety codes necessary for a safe campus environment. Please help to keep it safe by reporting any incidents, accidents or potentially unsafe situations to a member of staff as soon as possible. Safety assessments have been undertaken for each module of your course and you will be advised of all applicable safety codes and any specific safety issues during the induction to your course and modules. You must ensure that you understand and apply all necessary safety codes. These form an essential element of your personal development and contribute to the safety of others.

4.5 Conduct

You will be expected to abide by the Regulations for the Conduct of Students in the University Student Guide to Regulations. UCLan expects you to behave in a respectful manner demonstrated by using appropriate language in class, and switching mobile phones / other devices off prior to attending classes. If your behaviour is considered to be unacceptable, any member of academic staff is able to issue an informal oral warning and the University will support staff by invoking formal procedures where necessary. You can read more about UCLan expectations in the regulations for the Conduct of Students.

4.6 Students’ Union

The Students’ Union is the representative body for all UCLan students. The organisation exists separately from the University and is led by the elected officers of the Student Affairs Committee (SAC) as well as representatives on the Students’ Council. The Students’ Union building is located at the heart of the Preston campus, and is the hub for all student activities. Representation and campaigning for students’ rights is at the core of what we do and is encompassed by our tag line of, Making Life Better for Students. Should you wish to make a change to any aspect of your student experience, whether it be academically related or not, then the Union is where your voice can be heard, actions taken, or campaigns launched. Your Union is also the home to a fantastic range of student-led societies, sports teams and multitudes of volunteering opportunities. You can also receive help in finding part-time work, whilst you study. Not sure where to go? Pop into the Opportunities Centre on the ground floor of the Students’ Union building and someone will point you in the right direction. We hope your time at University is trouble free, but should you come into difficulties around anything from academic appeals, to issues with housing, benefits or debt, then our dedicated staff team in the Advice and Representation Centre are on hand to help. As we are independently run from the university, we can offer truly impartial advice.

More information on all these things, as well as details about all our (not-for-profit) commercial services, including our student-bar (Source) and student venue (53 Degree), can be found at http://www.uclansu.co.uk/. The Opportunities Centre is the Union’s One Stop Shop to find employment or volunteering whilst you study. With thousands of jobs and voluntary positions advertised, agency work through the Bridge and information on over 2000 volunteer positions within the Union.

5. Assessment Please note that all modules will be assessed. You are expected to attempt all required assessments for each module for which you are registered, and to do so at the times scheduled unless authorised extensions, special arrangements for disability, or extenuating circumstances allow you to defer your assessment.

5.1 Assessment Strategy

The department’s Essential Information and Advice for Undergraduates provides an overview of assessments, grades and results. It is important that you read and understand this information. The Module Information Packs give you more details about the specific assignments in a particular module. All assessed work is returned to you with feedback from the tutor. It is important that you take on board this feedback in order to improve your performance as the course develops. If you do not understand the tutor’s feedback or wish to discuss the comments, please ask the tutor for an appointment.

The pass mark is 40% (although in certain modules such as Law the pass mark may be higher). A mark such as this indicates that you have only just reached the level of performance described in the Learning Outcomes for each module and there are weaknesses you will need to address. The steps from 40% to 70% and more are outlined in the marking criteria on the following pages. If you fail to achieve 40% you will normally be ‘referred’. This means you will be offered another chance to do assignments. If you then pass you can only get a mark of 40%, no matter how good your second piece of work was. In many modules you must pass each assignment. This means that even if all your marks in the module add up to an overall mark of more than 40% you will still be required to retake and pass any assignment in which you got less than 40%. How your degree is worked out Your degree classification is based on one of two methods, the applicable method being the one which is most beneficial to you, the individual student. Your degree classification will be calculated either on an average of all your Year Three modules, or an average of all your Year Two and Year Three modules, with a weighting 3:7 applied in favour of Year Three. You can find full details in the University Regulations, section H, Course Awards & Results, and also online here http://www.uclan.ac.uk/information/services/sss/quality/regulations/section_h.php

Students new to university are sometimes surprised by what appears to be the low level of marks. This is a result of the marking scale we use and does not necessarily mean you are doing badly. You should note that the middle of the scale (i.e. the mark for generally adequate or average work) is 55%. Marks above this indicate quite good to excellent progress. Marks below this show that there are some weaknesses you need to address and correct. A guide to marking is included with Appendix 8.4 at the end of this handbook.

5.2 Notification of assignments and examination arrangements

Requirements for individual assessments and their respective deadlines for submission are usually outlined in Module Information Packs or contained in assessment briefings distributed by the respective tutor.

5.3 Referencing

The referencing style is the Harvard style and a brochure on its use is available in the library.

5.4 Confidential material

From time to time you may have reason to access confidential information during the course. Remember that you have ethical and legal responsibilities to respect confidentiality and maintain the anonymity of individuals and organisations within your assignments.

5.5 Dealing with difficulties in meeting assessment deadlines

Assignments must be submitted no later than the date on your assignment instructions / brief. If you anticipate that you will have difficulty in meeting assessment deadlines or you have missed or are likely to miss in-semester tests you must report this at the earliest possible opportunity to the relevant module leader. Authorisation of the late submission of work requires written permission. Your School is authorised to give permission for one extension period of between 1 and 10 working days where appropriate evidence of good reason has been accepted and where submission within this timescale would be reasonable taking into account your circumstances (Academic Regulations). You should complete and submit an extension request form, with any supporting evidence, to your Administration Hub (see section 1.5 for contact details). Further information is available on the Student Portal at: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/students/study/examinations_and_awards/extenuating_circumstances.php We aim to let you know if the extension has been granted within 1 working day of the receipt of the request. If you are unable to submit work within 10 working days after the submission date due to verifiable extenuating circumstances, you may submit a case for consideration in accordance with the University’s Policies and Procedures on Extenuating Circumstances (Academic Regulations and Assessment Handbook).

5.5.1 Extenuating circumstances

Some students face significant events in their personal life that occur after their course has started, which have a greater impact on their students than can be solved by the use of an extension. If this applies to you, the University is ready to support you both with regard to

your course and your personal wellbeing through a process called Extenuating Circumstances (see Academic Regulations and Assessment Handbook). Normally extenuating circumstances will relate to a change in your circumstances since you commenced your course, which have had a significant, adverse effect on your studies. Everyday occurrences such as colds or known conditions such as hay-fever will not qualify unless the effects are unusually severe and this is corroborated by a medical note. The University does not look sympathetically on absences or delays caused by holiday commitments or by work commitments in the case of full-time students. The normal work commitments of part-time students would not constitute an extenuating circumstance. A disability or learning difficulty does not constitute an extenuating circumstance (see Academic Regulations). Further information is available on the Student Portal at: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/students/study/examinations_and_awards/extenuating_circumstances.php You can apply for extenuating circumstances online via myUCLan. You must apply no later than 3 days after any examination or assessment submission date. Do not wait until you receive your assessment results to submit a claim. It is in your own interests to submit the claim as soon as possible. You will be expected to re-submit claims for extenuating circumstances for each semester.

All evidence that is provided relating to extenuating circumstances will be treated in a

sensitive and confidential manner. Supporting evidence will not be kept for longer than is

necessary and will be destroyed shortly after the end of the current academic year.

Further information about the submission process is available at: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/students/study/examinations_and_awards/extenuating_circumstance_submission.php

5.5.2 Late submissions

If you submit work late and unauthorised, a universal penalty will be applied in relation to your work:

If you submit work within 5 working days following the published submission date you will obtain the minimum pass mark for that element of assessment.

Work submitted later than 5 working days after the published submission date will be awarded a mark of 0% for that element of assessment.

Unauthorised late submission at resubmission will automatically be awarded a mark

of 0% for that element of assessment.

5.6 Feedback Following Assessments

UCLan is committed to giving you clear, legible and informative feedback for all your assessments (Academic Regulations: G3.7). You are expected to review and reflect on your feedback and learn from each experience to improve your performance as you progress though the course. We aim to provide you with feedback for in-module formative and summative elements of assessment which contribute to a module within 15 working days of the scheduled submission or examination date. Feedback may be oral, written, posted on a website or other.

5.7 Cheating, plagiarism, collusion or re-presentation

You are required to sign a declaration indicating that individual work submitted for an assessment is your own. If you attempt to influence the standard of the award you obtain through cheating, plagiarism or collusion, it will be considered as a serious academic and disciplinary offence as described within the Academic Regulations and the Assessment Handbook .

Cheating is any deliberate attempt to deceive and covers a range of offences described in the Assessment Handbook.

Plagiarism describes copying from the works of another person without suitably attributing the published or unpublished works of others. This means that all quotes, ideas, opinions, music and images should be acknowledged and referenced within your assignments.

Collusion is an attempt to deceive the examiners by disguising the true authorship of an assignment by copying, or imitating in close detail another student’s work - this includes with the other student’s consent and also when 2 or more students divide the elements of an assignment amongst themselves and copy one another’s answers. It does not include the normal situation in which you learn from your peers and share ideas, as this generates the knowledge and understanding necessary for each individual to independently undertake an assignment; nor should it be confused with group work on an assignment which is specifically authorised in the assignment brief.

Re-presentation is an attempt to gain credit twice for the same piece of work.

You may wish to alert students to specific resources available at UCLan or within your School designed to help students to understand the meaning of plagiarism and how to avoid it e.g. by cross referencing to guidelines on referencing assignments effectively – School or University materials. Do you use Turnitin? If so, explain how it works and how your students should use it. Schools may require first year students to complete a formative essay which is fed through Turnitin and discussed within seminars with relevant academic staff to help students to learn more about referencing their work.

The process of investigation and penalties which will be applied can be reviewed in the Assessment Handbook. If an allegation is found to be proven then the appropriate penalty will be implemented: In the case of a single offence of cheating, plagiarism, collusion or re-presentation:

the penalty will be 0% for the element of assessment, and an overall fail for the module.

the plagiarised element of assessment must be resubmitted to the required standard and the mark for the module following resubmission will be restricted to the minimum pass mark.

when it is detected for the first time on a resubmission for an already failed module, no further resubmission for the module will be permitted, and the appropriate fail grade will be awarded.

In the event of a repeat offence of cheating, plagiarism, collusion or re-presentation (irrespective of whether the repeat offence involves the same form of unfair means) on the same or any other module within the course:

the appropriate penalty will be 0% for the module with no opportunity for re-assessment. This penalty does not preclude you being able to retake the module in a subsequent year.

The penalties will apply if you transfer from one UCLan course to another during your period of study and module credits gained on the former course are transferred to the current course. Contact the Students’ Union Advice and Representation Centre by emailing: suadvice@uclan.ac.uk for support and guidance.

5.8 Appeals against assessment board decisions

If you consider that you have a reason to appeal against an assessment board decision, please bear in mind that your reasons must fall within the grounds specified in the University Academic Regulations: Section I. You cannot appeal simply because you disagree with the mark given. The specified grounds for appeal are:

1. that an Assessment Board has given insufficient weight to extenuating circumstances;

2. that the student’s academic performance has been adversely affected by extenuating circumstances which the student has, for good reason, been unable to make known to the Assessment Board;

3. that there has been a material administrative error at a stage of the examining process, or that some material irregularities have occurred;

4. that the assessment procedure and/or examinations have not been conducted in accordance with the approved regulations.

If you want to appeal, then you must do so within 14 days of your results being published. The onus is on you to find out your results and submit your appeal on time. Contact the Students' Union Advice and Representation Centre by emailing: suadvice@uclan.ac.uk for support and guidance. Where will students find out the dates for publication of results? You may wish to refer them to the UCLan academic calendar.

6. Course regulations

6.1 Course requirements

Students are required to pass ALL modules in Years Two and Three in order to qualify for a degree. Students are required to pass ALL modules in one year in order to progress to the next. A single module which has been failed may be re-taken the following year but must then be passed. It is a requirement of the course that students go on a placement of three weeks’ duration, usually during the summer break before the start of Year Three or during the Christmas break in Year Three.

6.2 Classification of Awards

The University publishes the principles underpinning the way in which awards and results are decided in Academic Regulation Section H. Decisions about the overall classification of awards are made by Assessment Boards through the application of the academic and relevant course regulations. In simple terms an undergraduate honours degree classification is based on the highest classification:

1. The Average Percentage Mark (APM) of your level 5 and 6 modules (generally taken

in years 2 and 3 of a full time course) weighted 30:70. Or

2. Your Average Percentage Mark in year 3 only (ie your level 6 modules)

If the APM is near a borderline, ‘at the discretion of the Assessment Board, students may be classified according to the academic judgement of the Assessment Board taking into account their overall profile and performance with the minimum requirement that:

1. A minimum of 3 modules (60 credits) at level 6 are in the classification band and 2. The APM is no lower than 2 percentage points below that required for the higher

classification.’

In operating discretion for profiling Course Assessment Boards will use academic judgement and may refer to performance in core modules; the placement component, the dissertation/project or other factors which have been published to students.

7. Student voice You can play an important part in the process of improving the quality of this course through the feedback you give. In addition to the ongoing discussion with the course team throughout the year, there are a range of mechanisms for you to feedback about your experience of teaching and learning. We aim to respond to your feedback and let you know of our plans for improvement. In the past students have helped form the current sports journalism course by highlighting issues with modules and by telling staff what they would like to have on their course. Modules have been changed as a direct result of student input and more guest speakers have been invited to come iin to speak with students after they made the request. The Students’ Union can support you in voicing your opinion, provide on-going advice and support, and encourage your involvement in all feedback opportunities. They will be asking that you complete the National Student Survey (during semester 2 for students in their final year of study) or the UCLan Student Survey (all other students). The Students’ Union and University work closely together to ensure that the student voice is heard in all matters of student-life. We encourage students to provide constructive feedback throughout their time at university, through course reps, surveys and any other appropriate means, The Union’s Student Affairs Committee (SAC), and members of Students’ Council each have particular representative responsibilities, and are involved with decision making committees as high as the University Board. Therefore it is very important students engage with the democratic processes of the Students’ Union and elect the students they see as most able to represent them.

7.1 Course representatives

A course representative is a student who represents their fellow students’ views and opinions to the course team, school, university and students’ union. Course representatives work proactively and diplomatically to improve the academic and non-academic experiences of students.

The role of a course representative is extremely beneficial to both students on your course and the university. It enables students to have ownership of their student experience and voice their opinions and share positive practice with the course team, primarily the Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (see below). Course representatives will be elected every year either in April or September. Alongside receiving recognition, support and respect being a course representative is a great opportunity to enhance your employability skills. If you are interested in becoming a course representative and wish to find out more about the role visit the Students’ Union website or by emailing: coursereps@uclan.ac.uk.

School Presidents meanwhile are annually elected representatives who voice the opinions of

students within each school. They communicate and engage with students in their school to

gain feedback and work in partnership with senior management to create positive change.

They are also trained to support and signpost course representatives where needed. If you

wish to find out who is your School President or more about the role visit the Students’ Union

website or email: coursereps@uclan.ac.uk

7.2 Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (SSLM)

The purpose of a SSLM is to provide the opportunity for course representatives to feedback to staff about the course, the overall student experience and to inform developments which will improve future courses. These meetings are normally scheduled once per semester. Your Course Leader will facilitate the meetings using Guidelines and provide a record of the meeting with any decisions and / or responses made and / or actions taken as a result of the discussions held. The meetings include discussion of items forwarded by course representatives, normally related to the following agenda items (dependent on time of year). Your Student Liaison Officer will be invited to attend and support the resolution of any issues. The course team encourage student feedback in all areas and recognise that additional items for discussion may also be raised at the meeting

Update on actions completed since the last meeting

Feedback about the previous year – discussion of external examiner’s report; outcomes of National /UCLan student surveys.

Review of enrolment / induction experience;

Course organisation and management (from each individual year group, and the course overall);

Experience of modules - teaching, assessment, feedback;

Experience of academic support which may include e.g. Personal Development Planning, Academic Advisor arrangements and The Card;

Other aspects of University life relevant to student experience e.g. resources, IT, library;

Any other issues raised by students or staff.

Students will be invited to put their names forward to become Course Reps by email early in the academic year.

7.3 Complaints

The University recognises that there may be occasions when you have cause for complaint about the service you have received, when this happens, the complaints procedure is intended to provide an accessible, fair and straightforward system which ensures as effective, prompt and appropriate response. Click on this link for more information Complaints Procedure .

8. Appendices

Programme specification

The Matthew Hesketh Memorial Award

Making Contact with Football Clubs and other sports organisations

Grading Scheme

Placements

8.1 Programme Specification

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE

BA (Hons) Sports Journalism Programme Specification

This Programme Specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the

programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be

expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning

opportunities that are provided.

Sources of information on the programme can be found in Section 17

1. Awarding Institution / Body

University of Central Lancashire

2. Teaching Institution and Location of Delivery

University of Central Lancashire/Preston Campus

3. University School/Centre

Journalism, Language and Communication

4. External Accreditation

Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC)

5. Title of Final Award

BA (Hons) Sports Journalism

6. Modes of Attendance offered

Full time

7. UCAS Code

P501

8. Relevant Subject Benchmarking Group(s)

Communication, Media, Film and Cultural Studies.

9. Other external influences

National Council for the Training of Journalists /

Broadcast Journalism Training Council

10. Date of production/revision of this form

July 2015

11. Aims of the Programme

To develop sports journalism practitioners who are independent thinkers and doers

To enable students to acquire the necessary skills, competencies and reasoning skills to move confidently from the course to a journalism career

To encourage the development of critical thinking, reasoning skills and independence of thought

To provide a learning environment for personal development and growth both as an individual and as a contributor to teams and groups

12. Learning Outcomes, Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

A. Knowledge and Understanding

A1. Knowledge of the development, structures and operation of the sports media

A2. Understanding of theoretical and conceptual issues which relate to sports

journalism.

A3. Understanding of how a journalist works, what news and sports news are and

how they are obtained written, presented and edited.

A4. Knowledge of legal, economic, ethical and regulatory controls on sports production.

A5 Analysing sport from an historical, structural and socio-cultural perspective to underpin journalistic practice/investigation/writing.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures, practical workshops, seminars, case studies. Students can choose a

dissertation route in the third year if they wish which requires independent research into a

defined area of journalism. They also choose either Print or Broadcast route in Year

Three, both routes underpinned by the teaching of online applications.

Assessment methods

Essays, work portfolios, examinations, presentations, group projects, time-constrained in-

class assessments, coursework.

B. Subject-specific skills

B1. Selecting, gathering and processing of news and sport for a range of media

B2. Technical production, interviewing and presentational skills.

B3. Media law

B4 Shorthand.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Course work in practical workshops concentrate on providing students with the core skills

required by a trainee journalist.

The course culminates in students specialising in one area of the sports media and

working in teams to produce a live newspaper, radio, television and/or online news

production.

Assessment methods

Portfolios of work, assessed production of practical journalism work, reflective essays,

presentations, group projects, examinations, time constrained assignments, work

placements

C. Thinking Skills

C1. Selecting, researching, analysing and critically appraising information from a range of primary and secondary sources.

C2. Relating the practice and products of journalism work to theoretical perspectives and

concepts.

C3. Planning and conducting research and communicating results

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures, seminars and coursework encourage students to become reflective

practitioners.

Assessment methods

Essays, examinations, presentations, practical projects, time constrained assessments.

D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development

D1. Self-confidence, curiosity, common sense, persistence.

D2. Focus, brevity, effective verbal and written communication

D3. Team working

D4. Independent thinking, reflection and criticism.

D5 Work effectively as a group member and leader

Teaching and Learning Methods

Seminars and tutorials stress the need for independent, focused thought. Group projects

encourage teamwork. Practical workshops stress the need for brevity and clarity in written

and verbal communication.

Assessment methods

Team working, project management and criticism are displayed in the production of live

newspapers, radio, television or online news production.

13. Programme Structures*

14. Awards and Credits*

Level Modul

e

Code

Module Title Credit

rating

Level 6

JN302

5

JN304

6

JN305

1

JN305

2

JN399

3

JN305

3

JN305

4

TL303

0

Compulsory Modules

Journalism Ethics &

Regulation

Work Placement

Plus one of the following:

Advanced Print and Online

Sports Journalism

Advanced Broadcast Sports

Journalism

Optional Modules (select

40 credits from)

Sports Journalism Project

Football and Communication

Football and Popular Culture

Business of Football

Sport in the Global Village

The Sporting Image

Sports PR

20

20

40

40

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

Bachelor Honours Degree

Requires 360 credits including

a minimum of 240 at Level 5 or

above and 120 at Level 6

Bachelor Degree

Requires 320 credits including

a minimum of 180 at Level 5

and above and 40 at level 6

TL307

6

TL303

1

PR3112

Level 5

JN205

4

JN205

0

JN220

0

TL211

5

JN203

3

JN205

5

Compulsory Modules

Sports Journalism Practice

The Digital Landscape

Law for Journalists

Current Issues in Sport

Optional Modules (select

20 credits from)

International Journalism

Football and the Media

Marketing and Promotion of

Sport

Developing Research Skills

Economics of Sport and

Leisure

40

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

Diploma of Higher Education

Requires 240 credits including

a minimum of 100 at Level 5

and above.

TL200

2

TL205

5

TL206

4

Level 4

JN101

4

JN101

5

JN101

6

JN101

7

TL103

5

TL103

6

JN100

5

Compulsory Modules

Reporting Skills

Broadcast Journalism Skills

Creating Content

Multiplatform Journalism

The Sporting Infrastructure

Optional (Select 20 credits

from)

The Making of Modern Sport

Shorthand for Journalists

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

Certificate of Higher

Education

Requires 120 credits at Level 4

or above

15. Personal Development Planning

Personal Development Planning is an integral part of the course aimed at assisting students

to take responsibility for their personal, educational and career development. The course

encourages the development of critical thinking, reasoning skills and independence of thought

and students are also encouraged to be reflective practitioners. Students are encouraged to

engage in relevant work experience as part of the course and in their own time. Academic

Advisors support students in their reflection on their Personal Development. In consultation

with Academic Advisors students are required to maintain a log or diary detailing their

performance and development.

16. Admissions criteria

We will make a conditional offer of 300 points at A2 (or the equivalent) to everyone who is

predicted to achieve or exceed that, subject to achievement of GCSE English at grade C or

above and the following:

Where General Studies is one of three A2s, the General Studies result will count towards the

total

Where General Studies is one of more than three A2s, the General Studies result will not

count towards the total

Where there is evidence of focus on sports journalism from the personal statement

application, for instance significant work experience, allowance may be made in the offer to

recognise this.

In the case of mature or non-standard applicants any offer will be made at the discretion of

the admissions tutor and/or the course leader.

Overseas applicants who do not have English as their native language will be required to

achieve IELTS 7.5

17. Key sources of information about the programme

University prospectus, university website – www.uclan.ac.uk

Department website www.ukjournalism.org

Course fact sheets

UCAS handbooks and website

Department Facebook page

Journalism Department open and applicant days

18. Curriculum Skills Map

Please tick in the relevant boxes where individual Programme Learning Outcomes are being assessed

Level

Module

Code Module Title

Core (C),

Compuls

ory

(COMP)

or Option

(O)

Programme Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and

understanding

Subject-

specific Skills Thinking Skills

Other skills

relevant to

employability and

personal

development

A1 A2 A

3 A3 A4 A5 B1 B2 B3 B4 C1 C2 C3 C4 D1 D2 D3 D4

D5

LE

VE

L 6

PR3112 Sports Public Relations O X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

JN3052

Advanced Broadcast

Sports Journalism O X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X

JN3051

Advanced Newspaper and

Online Sports Journalism O X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X

JN3993 Sports Journalism Project O X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

JN3025 Ethics and Regulation COMP X X X X X X X X X X

JN3046 Work Placement COMP X X X X X X X X X X

TL3076 Sport in the Global Village O X X X X X

TL3031 The Sporting Image O X X X X

TL3030 Business of Football O X X X

JN3053

Football and

Communication O X X X X X

JN3054

Football and Popular

Culture O X X X X X

LE

VE

L 5

JN2050 The Digital Landscape COMP X X X X X X X X X X X X

JN2033 International Journalism O X X X X X X X X X X

JN2055 Football and the Media O X X X X X X X X

JN2200 Law for Journalists COMP X X X X X X X X X X X

JN2054 Sports Journalism Practice COMP X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X

TL2002

Marketing and Promotion

of Sport O X X X

TL2055

Developing Research

Skills O X X X X X X X

TL2064

Economics of Sport and

Leisure O X X X X X

TL2115 Current Issues in Sport COMP X X X X X X X

e.g

. L

EV

EL

4

JN1014 Reporting Skills COMP X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

JN1015

Broadcast Journalism

Skills COMP X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X

JN1016 Creating Content COMP X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

JN1017 Multiplatform Journalism COMP X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

TL1035 The Sporting Infrastructure COMP X X X X X X X

TL1036

The Making of Modern

Sport O X X X X X

JN1005

Shorthand For Journalists

1 O X X X

Note: Mapping to other external frameworks, e.g. professional/statutory bodies, will be included within Student Course Handbooks

8.2 The Matthew Hesketh Memorial Award

Matthew Hesketh was in the first year of his Sports Journalism degree course at UCLan when he was tragically killed in a road accident in February 2007. He was 18 years of age, lived here in Preston and was a huge fan of Chelsea FC. To commemorate Matthew’s life

the university instituted an annual award in his name, to be made to the student who achieves the highest marks in his/her core modules over the first 18 months of their Sports Journalism degree course. The prize includes the opportunity to join the media dept at Chelsea FC, on placement, in the summer. The award is made each year to a student on the second year of the course. This meant that the inaugural winner was one of Matthew's contemporaries, Tom Hyde. The second winner in 2009 was Adam Sharples. In 2010 it was Will Bradshaw, in 2011 it was Peter Elliott, and in 2012 our winner was Michael Bailey, pictured above receiving his award from Ben Rhodes, general manager of PNE, accompanied by Matt’s father Andrew Hesketh. The 2013 award was given to James Edwards. We are grateful to Simon Greenberg, former Head of Communications at Chelsea FC, for his assistance in establishing the award, and Simon’s successor Emma Wilkinson for her commitment to continue that support. 8.3 Making Contact with Football Clubs and other sports organisations During your time here you will need to make contact with football clubs like Preston North End and other sports organisations. As trainee journalists it is important that you quickly get used to making approaches yourself when you need information or to ask for interviews or permission to attend matches. Preston North End and most other clubs and associations have a Media Department which handles requests from student journalists as well as requests from the professional media. All requests should be directed to the Media Dept whose contact details can usually be found via the official website or by phoning the club’s main switchboard. When making a request, it usually helps if you tell the Media Dept exactly what you want. Vague requests for “an interview with any player at any time” do not go down well. PNE (whose media staff includes two graduates of this University) will be as helpful as they can but they cannot possibly grant every student request they receive. If the answer is “sorry but no” accept the decision with good grace and look elsewhere. Do not attempt to go behind the Media Dept’s back. Of course, there are times when professional journalists may not want to go through the official channels if they are investigating a controversial story. When you are in that situation, fine. For now, you are learning your trade and it will help no-one if the course’s strong relationship with PNE is jeopardised. When you attend any sports venue or event in connection with the course, please conduct yourself appropriately. You will be entering a professional environment and you are expected to behave with courtesy and dress smartly. Journalism is all about making contacts: you never know who you will meet and who will remember your name for the future.

8.4 Grading Scheme The modified table (shown below) reflects the exact information provided to students when

they receive their transcripts and takes account of the grade descriptors used at Assessment

Boards.

Pass and Fail Grades

In line with University Regulations, the pass mark for all assessments is 40%. If you do not achieve this grade the Assessment Board will recommend referral. You will either be offered a resit examination or a piece of referral coursework to be submitted by a certain date. On completion of referral work the maximum mark available is 40%. A student who fails to pass such a referral may be offered the opportunity to re-take the module or take a different module in the next academic year. This will enable you to keep on track accumulating the correct number of modules at the appropriate stages of your programme. In some cases the Assessment Board will use its discretion to condone a module. The table outlines the University’s current grading scheme.

Grade Percentage

Mark

Description Honours Degree

Equivalent

85 - 100 Outstanding

75 - 84 Excellent First

70 - 74 Very Good

67 - 69 Good +

64 - 66 Good Upper Second

60 - 63 Good -

57 -59 Average +

54 - 56 Average Lower Second

50 - 53 Average -

45 - 49 Satisfactory +

41 -44 Satisfactory - Third

40 Bare Minimal Pass

0 -39* Fail Fail

The above table is provided as a general guide to performance. In arriving at a final degree classification decision, Assessment Boards will consider a student’s overall profile and performance in core elements of the course of study.

8.5 Placements

Third year students are required to carry out compulsory industry placements of three weeks’ duration (15 working days) as part of their placement and portfolio module. These placements should be undertaken out of term time. Occasionally, employers may offer placement attendance at other times. This can only be arranged in exceptional circumstances and you must ask permission from your course leader before confirming with employers. You must not make your own arrangements for placements outside the official placement weeks unless your course leader has agreed. Permission will only be given in circumstances that the course leader believes are exceptional. While the placement is an important part of the third year programme, it is also vital that you do not miss classes for other modules. Tutors may be able to assist in arranging placements through their industry contacts and they may prefer to make the initial contact with some employers for you. If this is the case, you will be told at the start of the module. However, it is your responsibility to make sure you have the required placements arranged. It is also your responsibility to inform our clerical staff in the department office (Greenbank 001) of all your placement details so that the necessary health and safety checks can be carried out.

9. Fee Information

Tuition fees:

Your tuition fees include:

Scheduled course tuition, academic, technical and administrative support, use of course

equipment and facilities.

Course related induction activities.

Placement year academic support (where the course includes a placement year).

Course assessment and awards.

Access to the university’s library and online resources, including on-campus wifi, networked

and remote access to the university’s virtual learning environment,

Use of the university’s estate and resources for scheduled activities and learning support

Dissertation, project and/or thesis printing and binding where the submission of printed and

bound documents is a requirement for assessment of the module.

Use of the university’s technical equipment and materials identified by the course teaching

team as essential for the completion of the course.

The extra items listed against your course in Table One below.

Table One Course

Additional items included in the tuition fees for your course

BA (Hons) Screenwriting BA (Hons) Film and Media

Printing and binding costs for final year dissertation/project

BA (Hons) Journalism Foundation entry/ BA (Hons) Journalism

Headphones for editing/studio work. NCTJ diploma examinations years 1, 2 & 3. Shorthand workbook final year Placement costs final year Printing costs for newspaper/magazine projects final year. SD camera card final two years Dissertation printing/binding costs final year

BSc (Hons) Media Production BSc (Hons) Web Design and Development

Printing and material costs for assessed Portfolios Virtual Servers year 2 Printing and binding costs Final Year Projects Share in student companies year 3 Headphones for editing/studio work year 2

BA (Hons) TV Production

Printing and material costs for Portfolios Printing and binding costs Final Year Projects Share in Student companies Storage media for high end production, equivalent to Tapes. Headphones for editing/studio work.

BA (Hons) Film Production

Feature Film Storage media for high end production, equivalent to Tapes. Printing and binding costs for assessed final year Dissertation/projects

BA (Hons) Sports Journalism Shorthand workbook first year

Placement costs final year Printing costs for newspaper/magazine projects final year. SD camera card years 2 and 3 Headphones for editing/studio work. Year 2

BA (Hons) Photography PH3011 Professional Portfolio - Printing of images year 3 Ph3991/2 Dissertation 2 Printed copies year 3 Ph2010/ Visit to galleries Northwest based. Year 2 PH1020 / Visits and trips for Experimental Practice year 1 Photography and Narrative Photobooks year 1 Ph1003 Everyday Ass 2 Photographic prints x 3 year 1

BA (Hons) International Journalism

Shorthand workbook year 1 Placement costs - module JN3048 Work Experience Photo portfolio printing costs year 3 SD camera card year 2 and 3 Headphones for editing/studio work year 2 Dissertation printing/binding costs year 3

The items listed in Table Two are optional and the costs are not included in your tuition fees.

Table Two Course

Optional items which may be offered and which are NOT included in the tuition fees for your course. Places may be limited

Estimated costs

BA (Hons) Screenwriting

Attendance at events - for example, film / screenwriting festivals Entry Fee for RTS award Total

£50 per year £30 £180

BA (Hons) Journalism Foundation entry BA (Hons) Journalism

Travel expenses to industry study visits foundation year Placement costs second year Total

£20 £100 £120

BA (Hons) Film Production Entry Fee for RTS award Group Film entries/attendance at Berlin Film Festival Total

£30 £150 year 2 and 3 £330

BA (Hons) Sports Journalism

Attendance at sporting events for match reporting. NCTJ shorthand and law exams Total

£50 per year £68 £218

BA (Hons) Photography Photography Trip £200

BA (Hons) International Journalism

Placement costs Visit to Media City, Salford

£100 £30

Total £130

Living costs:

Living costs are not included in your tuition fees. You will need to budget for these separately.

Below is an indication of some typical living costs, but everyone is different and you are strongly

advised to plan your own budget.

Typical items Estimated weekly costs lower range

Estimated weekly costs higher range

Accommodation: University Halls of Residence based on a 42 week contract. Private Halls of Residence (Living at home may reduce your accommodation costs)

£79.03 £70 (£0)

£107.83 £110

Food £20 £30

Internet connection (free wifi on campus, in university halls of residence and in some private accommodation)

£0 £12

Toiletries/Laundry £5 £15

Gas/electricity/water (included within university halls of residence costs and some private accommodation – check your contract)

£0 £20

Printing, copying, stationery. £2.50 £10

Travel expenses (varies by method & distance travelled e.g. on foot, bicycle, bus, train or car. If using bus or train check travel card / season ticket rates for savings). University halls of residence and a good selection of private accommodation are situated on campus or a short walk from campus.

£0 £40

Mobile phone or landline £2.50 £10

Books £5 £10

Leisure £5 £25

Total per week £110 £282

Total for 42 weeks (typical halls of residence contract)

£4,620 £11,844

Total for 52 weeks £5,720 £14,664

You will also need to budget for ‘one off’ or irregular costs

Typical items Notes

Bedding From £20

Clothes Costs vary depending on your needs

TV licence £145.50 per year

Insurances Costs vary depending on your needs.

Computer/laptop/telephone You will have access to University computers or laptops for your studies or you may have your own you wish to bring. If you are acquiring one to come to university the cost varies depending on model and whether it is new or refurbished.

Furniture, crockery etc. Furnished accommodation may include all your needs. Check your accommodation to see what is included.

Additional costs.

The costs below are incurred by some but not all students and are not included within the Tuition

Fees.

Optional items – all courses Estimated costs

Travel to course related work placements, work experience, voluntary work, or site visits (for example costs of petrol, business level motor insurance cover, taxis, train fares, bus fares etc.).

Variable depending on the distance travelled and the method of transport chosen.

Library fines & charges Avoid these by returning on time or renewing books!

On time £0.00 0-8 days overdue £0.10-0.50 per day 9+ days overdue £0.50-£1.00 per day 40+ days replacement cost and administrative charges/account suspension

Costs of obtaining medical or other evidence to support applications for extenuating circumstance applications relating to assessments.

For example a medical certificate may cost from £10.

Fees for arranging and invigilating course examination(s) off campus are payable by the student (Note this only applies where permitted by course regulations and approved by course leaders)

£300

Printing of electronic books, journals etc. You are strongly recommended to access these electronically.

Estimated £0.10 per copy sheet

Printing of reports, course materials and other course documents, which have been supplied or are available electronically or in hard copy in the library.

Estimated £0.10 per copy sheet