The FIP now has three formats: Option 1 Dissertation This format is kept to allow students to pursue the traditional format. Option 2: AI-Augmented Research Project (replaces Dissertation) Assessment 1 (20%) becomes a Research Design & AI Exploration Exercise: a research plan (research question, literature landscape, methodology, AI Strategy) plus an appendix with 2–4 Transparency Log entries and an evaluative commentary. Assessment 2 (80%) comprises a Research Output (6,000–7,000 words), a Transparency Log covering the full project lifecycle, and a Critical Reflection essay (2,000–3,000 words). Total workload is comparable to the current 10,000-word dissertation. Option 3: AI-Augmented Practice-based Research (replaces Practice-based Research) Assessment 1 (20%) follows the same Research Design & AI Exploration structure as Option 2, with the research plan additionally covering the production strategy and plan for the video component. Assessment 2 (80%) comprises a written component (2,000 words) and a video production (15 minutes) as before, plus a Transparency Log documenting AI interactions across both the written and production processes, and a Critical Reflection (2000 words) analysing how AI tools shaped the research and production workflow. This shorter reflection recognises that the practice component already embodies a significant portion of the intellectual work. What is preserved across options 2 and 3: The core research competencies, the 20/80 assessment weighting, the two-assessment sequence, and the distinct identities of the scholarly and practice-based pathways all remain intact. What changes is the addition of AI transparency and critical evaluation as formally assessed learning outcomes in both routes, and the introduction of the Transparency Log and Critical Reflection as shared components across the two options.
A. Demonstrate critical engagement with relevant academic literature, theories, and perspectives. B. Formulate clear, original, and researchable research questions and/or hypotheses. C. Select and justify appropriate research methods to address the research question(s). D. Design and conduct a valid, original, and ethical research project. E. Present and interpret research findings clearly and convincingly, situating them within relevant scholarly contexts and applying appropriate academic conventions. F. Manage and complete an independent research project effectively, demonstrating organisation, persistence, and reflective documentation of the research process. G. Produce an appropriate research output, which may include a written dissertation or a professional multimedia project (practice-based option). H. Integrate AI tools purposefully and transparently into the research process, including selecting appropriate tools, documenting their use, and critically evaluating their outputs and implications. （AI-Augmented Practice-based Research ）
Six two-hour lectures and one-hour seminar for the first six weeks of the semester assist students in developing research question(s), literature review, and methodology, and complying with research ethics clearance. Subsequently students will frequently consult with their supervisor.