Master of Arts in Drama and Performance Studies

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to build an advanced capacity for research within the field of Drama and Performance Studies.The qualification aims to promote the creation, performance and appreciation of drama, dance, theatre, applied theatre, and theatre-related media in the South African and, in particular, the KwaZulu-Natal context; personal growth with special emphasis on cognitive, social and communication skills by developing internal and external personal resources and modes of critical thinking; a deeper understanding and acceptance of the similarities and differences amongst people through a multicultural approach to the study of past and present South African, African and Western performance forms; an understanding of the educational potential of drama and dance as bridge to the local communities.

Rationale

The qualification equips learners to work in a variety of areas including performance, arts management, the broader performing arts sector, education, development, applied theatre, and research. Apart from its vocational purpose this qualification encourages learners to think of themselves as social beings who need to be able to analyse critically the cultural artefacts which surround them and which mediate their understanding of themselves and their society. The qualification facilitates furthering learners' abilities to engage Drama and Performance Studies in a manner that connects practice and research and hones skills as writers, directors, choreographers, dancers, designers, performers, and learners working in the field of applied theatre. The qualification is therefore devised to both equip them with the necessary skill (critical and practical) to enter the Performing Arts profession as well as to engage specifically with the South African (cultural) context.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts the principle underlying outcomes-based, source-based and life-long learning, in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a significant role, and subscribes to the view that Recognition of Prior Learning, whether acquired by formal education curricula at this or another institution or informally (by experience) is an indispensable element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning qualification of the institution.

An applicant who falls outside of the formal qualifications system, but who can demonstrate (through the production of substantial and satisfactory evidence) experiential or work-based learning or a non-formal qualification (or a combination), may be considered for admission and/or for the Recognition of Prior Learning for the achievement of the qualification in part or in full. An applicant who after such assessment, is deemed to have sufficient potential, but is in need of further academic development, must be directed to other suitable learning qualifications prior to admission or to parallel qualifications after admission.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is the

• Bachelors of Arts Honours Degree or Equivalent, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules and electives at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 192 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 128 Credits

• Short Dissertation: Drama & Performance Studies, 96 Credits.
• Research Methodologies and Applications, 32 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 9, 64 Credits (Choose two Modules)

• Theorising the 'Act': Local & Global Context, 32 Credits.
• Product Oriented Applied Drama, 32 Credits.
• Independent Production, 32 Credits.
• Special Elective in Drama, 32 Credits.

1. Apply a critical and evaluative approach to analysing research problems and identify and conceptualise a relevant research area.
2. Demonstrate a comprehensive and systematic grasp of the specialist body of theoretical knowledge and its application in the critique of current research in a selected field of study.
3. Utilise a wide range of specialised skills in designing and implementing a research project that addresses research questions in the chosen field of study.
4. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the standard research methodologies, techniques and technologies applicable to the selected area of study.
5. Undertake independent research in a specific area of Drama and Performance Studies, under the guidance of a supervisor that satisfies the standards of the academic community.
6. Report on these findings in ways that reflect independent thinking, originality, critical analysis, ability to defend findings and advanced insight into the chosen field of research.
7. Present research findings to a range of audiences using appropriate media or means to disseminate findings.
8. Identify and manage the ethical issues associated with research and knowledge production in the discipline.
9. Engage with creative practice and further performance skills resulting in original creative products/engagements.
10. Communicate effectively using oral, written, visual and dramatic skills.
11. Use culture and the performing arts effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards society and communities and be culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
12. Understand the use of theatre as an appropriate methodology of ethical research practice within and African paradigm.
13. Work effectively with others as members of a team, group, organisation or community.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
• Organise and manage their learning activities responsibly and effectively.
• Collect, analyse, organise and evaluate information.
• Communicate effectively, in written, spoken and presentational forms.
• Demonstrate a holistic understanding of the world and the interconnectedness of its problems.
• Participate as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
• Be self-conscious learners, culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of contexts and work effectively with others.
• Develop entrepreneurial opportunities.

Integrated Assessment

There is continuous assessment in the form of written assignments, oral presentations, and practical projects. Learners are assessed on independent individual research, oral presentations, performances and performance practice, research, assignments and examinations. In order to achieve the assessment purpose pertaining ascertaining whether the work is of Masters level quality and contributes to broader knowledge in the field of Drama and Performance Studies, external examination (summative) will be utilised.