Film as a Research Tool
7.5 credits
How can we think in terms of film, and how can we publish our research as film?
Digital forms of publication are becoming increasingly common; digital archives, websites and interactive exhibitions complement writing when research is disseminated and made accessible. The video essay, where research is presented in the form of a film, is part of this development. It is primarily distributed through YouTube and Vimeo, but also at conferences, exhibitions and in digital journals. This course gives students an opportunity to try out the video essay as a publication form for their own research.
The video essay moves between science, artistic research, academic publication forms and artistic practice. It starts out from existing audio-visual material as its object of study, and combines different sources as a basis for scientific or essayistic reflection. Most video essays are compilation films of passages taken from feature films, complemented by integrated spoken or written commentary. These films can take different forms, with differing degrees of scientificity. So far, the video essay has been a rather isolated phenomenon within the subject field of film studies. Through this course, we will broaden its utility, and open it up for other disciplines.
This course is unique in Sweden. It has been developed by Linnaeus University, and is offered in collaboration with Valand Academy in Gothenburg. As a result of this collaboration, the student gets the chance to create their own video essay based on their own research. Teachers from Linnaeus University and Valand Academy contribute with their knowledge about film history, their expertise in film pedagogy and their competence as supervisors of artistic research.
The course will be online with one meeting from Valand in Gothenburg. The meeting will by hybrid: online and on location for those who want to travel.
Those who do not hold a bachelor’s degree in a subject within the arts and humanities, need to send a project description (one A4 page with the required title PROJEKTBESKRIVNING VIDEOESSÄ) to subject coordinator Anders Åberg (anders.aberg@lnu.se). Project descriptions that do not have the required title will not be considered. Do not forget to include your name and social security number with your project description.
Distance – study where you are
Distance learning can be structured in different ways – it may be entirely online, or include a few on-campus sessions or meetings at one of our learning centres. The common factor is that most of the learning happens online.
You communicate with your teacher and fellow students through a learning platform, which provides access to discussion forums, group work opportunities, and digital meetings. In many cases, you also have access to recorded lectures via the platform.
The advantage of distance learning is its flexibility – ideal for those who want more freedom to decide when and where to study. However, keep in mind that some mandatory elements of your programme may take place during working hours, even if they are conducted online.
Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus
Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.
Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.
With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.
Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.
Build your own degree
Did you know that you can combine single-subject courses to build your own degree? In this way, you can design your own degree based on your interests and the career you are aiming for. This does not apply to all courses so make sure to check with a study counsellor at the faculty. Learn more about how you can build your own degree and become unique on the labour market.