Dissertation
MODULE CODE
CREDIT VALUE
Module Aims
Aim 1
The aim of the dissertation is to provide an opportunity for students to pursue an in-depth study on a topic of their own choice which is related to their substantive areas of study. Students will work independently, under limited supervision, in order to develop and demonstrate their academic skills and abilities. The dissertation will normally be based on a topic stemming from their degree studies and will demonstrate the use of primary and secondary data collection techniques. Relevant literature is to be reviewed and applied to the primary research activities to investigate the topic and present an academic report in the form of a research dissertation.
Module Content
The topic identified by the student must be approved by the Dissertation co-ordinator in conjunction with advice from specialist academic staff. The topic should meet the following criteria:
• It should be deemed appropriate within the context of the student’s programme of study;
• It should be restricted in scope so as to make possible in-depth treatment, subject to the availability of adequate sources of information;
• It should be of interest to the student and offer the opportunity to contribute to his/her personal development;
• The student will conduct an independent investigation, with limited supervision over an extended period of time, typically over 1 academic year;
• The investigation should draw upon primary and secondary data;
• The student will present a proposal of research intentions and a risk assessment for the topic/subject/situation. Risk assessment to be included as an appendix;
• Tutorial support for independent study throughout the year;
• Submit a final dissertation report for assessment.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to:
Teaching Methods
Each student will have a supervisor whose role is to provide advice and guidance on the planning and scheduling of dissertation work, methods of investigation, data collection and the preparation of the written report. The dissertation module is, however, a module of which students have individual ownership of; they are responsible for making appointments to meet with their supervisors on a regular basis throughout the learning process.
An introductory lecture to the module will set the scene for expectations concerning the processes of research including supervision arrangements and the final submission and assessment of the research report. The module handbook is a central reference for students engaging with this module, containing guidance on proposals, supervision, presentation and submission requirements. It also details a range of staff expertise/interest in various areas of research which might be supported.
Students will be strongly advised to seek guidance from potential supervisors as to the feasibility of their research ideas to help towards the formulation of a proposal.
Students are required to submit a research proposal which contains a Risk Assessment and basic ethics application for their intended project. Notifications for approval (or non-approval) of proposal requests will be through the first tutorial with a student’s supervisor.
Allotted supervision is for 6 hours per student throughout the year
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The predominant mode of student engagement will be through independent study.
The student is required to take responsibility for managing their supervision.
The supervisor has a record sheet to monitor tutorials with the student.
A range of supplementary learning materials will be available on E-Learn and Library resources.
No supervision contact is permitted in the last week prior to submission.
All submissions will be second marked, or third marked if necessary with viva voce as an option if the submission warrants a verbal defence.
Student feedback and return of dissertations will typically be after the External Examination process.
Assessment Methods
This module is assessed through one Research proposal and one Final Report.
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Compulsory
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