This course will introduce students to methodological approaches employed in music research. It will develop students’ research skills and understanding through critical engagement with diverse perspectives and approaches. The course fosters students’ ability to analyse and critique key issues and debates within music research and creative practice. It aims to build student understanding of the principles informing different music research methods and associated ethical considerations. It examines changing approaches employed by music researchers over time and considers current and future directions in music scholarship. The course aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out an independent research investigation on a musical topic.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. understand and critically evaluate methodological approaches to music research;
2. apply these approaches to pursue knowledge about a musical topic;
3. analyse and assess which methodological approaches are most suited for investigation of particular music research questions; and
4. communicate and debate themes, concepts and theories with peers.

Research-Led Teaching

This course engages with current theoretical and methodological topics in music research and builds students' skills as researchers.

Field Trips

N/A

Required Resources

Weekly readings and other resources will be made available via the course Wattle site.

Recommended Resources

Whether you are on campus or studying online, there are a variety of online platforms you will use to participate in your study program. These could include videos for lectures and other instruction, two-way video conferencing for interactive learning, email and other messaging tools for communication, interactive web apps for formative and collaborative activities, print and/or photo/scan for handwritten work and drawings, and home-based assessment.

ANU outlines recommended student system requirements to ensure you are able to participate fully in your learning. Other information is also available about the various Learning Platforms you may use.

Staff Feedback

Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:

• written comments
• verbal comments
• feedback to the whole class
• groups and individuals

Student Feedback

ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). Feedback can also be provided to Course Conveners and teachers via the Student Experience of Learning & Teaching (SELT) feedback program. SELT surveys are confidential and also provide the Colleges and ANU Executive with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement.

Class Schedule

Week/Session	Summary of Activities	Assessment
1	Course introduction, goals and expectations
2	Research skills
3	Historical Musicology	Critical response and discussion
4	Ethnomusicology	Critical response and discussion
5	Student presentations
6	Performance Studies	Critical response and discussion
7	Music Analysis	Critical response and discussion
8	Autoethnography and Reflective Practice	Critical response and discussion
9	Popular Music Studies	Critical response and discussion
10	Writing about music	Critical response and discussion
11	Peer review session
12	Final reflection	Annotated bibliography with bibliographic essay due on Friday, 23 May

Tutorial Registration

ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.

Assessment Summary

Assessment task	Value	Learning Outcomes
Critical Response and Discussion	20 %	1,2,4
Annotated Bibliography with Bibliographic Essay	50 %	1,2,3
Presentation of Research Plan	20 %	1,2,3
Participation	10 %	3,4

* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details

Policies

ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines , which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Integrity Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:

• Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
• Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
• Extenuating Circumstances Application
• Student Surveys and Evaluations
• Deferred Examinations
• Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure
• Code of practice for teaching and learning

Assessment Requirements

The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the Academic Skills website. In rare cases where online submission using Turnitin software is not technically possible; or where not using Turnitin software has been justified by the Course Convener and approved by the Associate Dean (Education) on the basis of the teaching model being employed; students shall submit assessment online via ‘Wattle’ outside of Turnitin, or failing that in hard copy, or through a combination of submission methods as approved by the Associate Dean (Education). The submission method is detailed below.

Moderation of Assessment

Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.

Participation

See Assessment Task 4

Assessment Task 1

Critical Response and Discussion

Present a critical response to the readings and lead an in-class discussion. Submit a 250 word summary of the discussion on Wattle. The critical response to the readings will be presented orally and should be approximately 5-7 minutes. It should provide a brief summary of the key points from the assigned reading(s) as well as your own response to the authors' ideas. In addition, you should prepare 2-3 question to facilitate class discussion of the topic. You are encouraged to meet with the instructor in advance to receive feedback on your discussion questions.

Value: 20%

Requirements:

• Critical responses and discussions will take place in weeks 2-12 of the semester.
• Your one-page summary of the discussion is due (via Turnitin) by 4 pm on the Monday following the discussion.

Estimated return date: Within two weeks of presentation 

Assessment Criteria:

1. Understanding of the topic and evidence of preparation
2. Demonstrated ability to analyse and critique key issues and debates within music research
3. Demonstrated ability to encourage discussion relevant to the chosen topic

Rubric

Grade	Letter Grade	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Fail	N	0-49	Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated

Assessment Task 2

Annotated Bibliography with Bibliographic Essay

Prepare an annotated bibliography and bibliographic essay on a music research topic of your choice, as approved by the course Convenor. This assessment consists of two parts:

1. The bibliography, using Chicago style, must include annotations of at least 15 sources. Each annotation should be a paragraph of approximately 100 words. It should provide a succinct summary and evaluation of the source.
2. In a bibliographic essay of approximately 5000 words, discuss and evaluate these sources identifying major themes, strengths, limitations and gaps in the literature. Consider the following questions:
3. How do you define your area of research?
4. What are the most important themes that have been addressed by scholars/creative practitioners working in the area?
5. How might you categorise the different approaches to research/creative practice in the area?
6. What gaps have you identified in your area of research? What questions remain to be explored?

Word limit:

• 5000 words for the essay plus annotations of at least 15 sources

Value: 50%

Presentation requirements:

• Chicago style referencing
• Assessment submitted as a single word file via Turnitin

Estimated return date: Within two weeks of submission

Assessment Criteria:

1. Evidence of a thorough and organised approach to literature review
2. Demonstrated ability to synthesise and evaluate resources from relevant areas of research
3. Demonstrated ability to analyse and critique key issues and debates within music research
4. Demonstrated understanding and application of academic writing and referencing

Rubric

Grade	Letter Grade	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Fail	N	0-49	Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated

Assessment Task 3

Presentation of Research Plan

This 10-minute presentation will provide an overview of your planned area of investigation for the annotated bibliography and bibliographic essay. Consider the following questions when preparing your presentation:

1. How do you define your area of research?
2. What are the most important themes that have been addressed by scholars/creative practitioners working in the area?
3. How might you categorise the different approaches to research/creative practice in the area?
4. What gaps have you identified in your area of research? What questions remain to be explored?

Value: 20%

Presentation requirements:

• To be presented orally in class during weeks 4-6

Estimated return date: Within two weeks of presentation 

Assessment Criteria:

1. Clarity and organisation of oral presentation
2. Articulation of significant research topic for investigation
3. Ideas supported with evidence from relevant areas of music research/creative practice
4. Demonstrated ability to analyse and critique key issues and debates within music research/creative practice

Rubric

Grade	Letter Grade	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Fail	N	0-49	Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated

Assessment Task 4

Participation

Active participation is essential for this course. You should prepare for class meetings by completing the assigned readings and taking thorough notes. You are expected to actively contribute to in-class activities. You are also expected to listen actively to other students’ ideas, and to respond constructively and thoughtfully.

Value: 10%

Assessment criteria:

• Frequency of participation in discussions and other in-class activities
• Evidence of preparation
• Evidence of listening skills

Attendance: Students are required to attend and participate in seminars from 10am- 1pm on Wednesday. This includes the Scholar Musician Seminar (10am-12 pm) and the School of Music Research Seminar (12- 1pm).

Rubric

High Distinction	Distinction	Credit	Pass	Fail
Participated in over 90% of in-class activities. Demonstrated exceptional preparation and listening skills.	Participated in over 70% of in-class activities. Demonstrated superior preparation and listening skills.	Participated in over 60% of in-class activities. Demonstrated good preparation and listening skills.	Participated in over 50% of in-class activities. Demonstrated adequate preparation and listening skills.	Participated in less than 50% of in-class activities. Demonstrated inadequate preparation and listening skills.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a core part of the ANU culture as a community of scholars. The University’s students are an integral part of that community. The academic integrity principle commits all students to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support, academic integrity, and to uphold this commitment by behaving honestly, responsibly and ethically, and with respect and fairness, in scholarly practice.

The University expects all staff and students to be familiar with the academic integrity principle, the Academic Integrity Rule 2021, the Policy: Student Academic Integrity and Procedure: Student Academic Integrity, and to uphold high standards of academic integrity to ensure the quality and value of our qualifications.

The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 is a legal document that the University uses to promote academic integrity, and manage breaches of the academic integrity principle. The Policy and Procedure support the Rule by outlining overarching principles, responsibilities and processes. The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 commences on 1 December 2021 and applies to courses commencing on or after that date, as well as to research conduct occurring on or after that date. Prior to this, the Academic Misconduct Rule 2015 applies.

 

The University commits to assisting all students to understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. All coursework students must complete the online Academic Integrity Module (Epigeum), and Higher Degree Research (HDR) students are required to complete research integrity training. The Academic Integrity website provides information about services available to assist students with their assignments, examinations and other learning activities, as well as understanding and upholding academic integrity.

Online Submission

You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of the submission of your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education) submission must be through Turnitin.

Hardcopy Submission

For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.

Late Submission

Late submission of assessment tasks without an extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Late submission is not accepted for take-home examinations. Note that late presentations are not accepted, and will receive a mark of zero. 

Referencing Requirements

The Academic Skills website has information to assist you with your writing and assessments. The website includes information about Academic Integrity including referencing requirements for different disciplines. There is also information on Plagiarism and different ways to use source material. Any use of artificial intelligence must be properly referenced. Failure to properly cite use of Generative AI will be considered a breach of academic integrity.

Returning Assignments

Student work will be returned through Turnitin with instructor comments. Students who wish to receive additional feedback on assignments should make an appointment to see the instructor. 

Extensions and Penalties

Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure. Extensions may be granted for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.

Resubmission of Assignments

Assignments may not be resubmitted. 

Privacy Notice

The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information.
In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service – including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy.
If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.

Distribution of grades policy

Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes.

Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.

Support for students

The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).

• ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
• ANU Accessibility for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
• ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
• ANU Academic Skills supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
• ANU Counselling promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
• ANUSA supports and represents all ANU students