This module introduces students to the key concepts of emerging technologies and how they relate to technological development and society. The module prepares students for their continuing study and working life where being able to recognise, evaluate, and communicate these concepts allows them to take greater advantage of the practical skills developed during their academic programme.
A.Identify, evaluate, and report on the principal issues related to an emerging technology, including its influence on society, economic factors, and key technical considerations, using appropriate academic sources. B.Utilise computer software to plan and generate digital content relating to emerging technologies. C.Communicate synthesised research findings related to the topic of emerging technologies clearly and effectively in English through appropriate media.
This module is delivered through an interactive, large-cohort Seminar format, supported by practical Studio sessions. The teaching methodology utilises a Research-Led, Project-Based Learning (RLPBL) framework tailored to support international, pre-programme learners in their academic transition. Rather than separating theory from practice, each weekly Seminar synthetically integrates conceptual technology overviews with practical digital communication and media planning workflows. During the 2-hour interactive windows, students engage with structured digital e-learning packages, interactive scenario exercises, case-study analysis, and collaborative text-synthesis tasks. The weekly Studios support the seminars by providing hands-on experience in RLPBL activities (e.g., researching and analysing a real-world problem, developing a methodology, establishing a project plan), as well as structured support for student groups to work on their final project. Guided independent study is structured around a continuous group research pipeline. An individual Project Readiness Checkpoint assesses students’ grasp of core technology concepts and foundational RLPBL skills through objective items and short-answer prompts. Formative feedback from this checkpoint directly informs the final Group Video Essay, an 8-10 minute collaborative video in which teams research and present issues related to an emerging technology, analysing its societal, economic, and technical dimensions.