Introductory description

This dissertation module enables students to engage in an extended piece of independent research, answering a question which of relevance to the programme of study at the time the project is started.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The nature of research.
Research methods,
Ethical considerations in research.
Risk management of projects.
Planning, managing and monitoring a research project.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Formulate a research question, consistent with the time and resource available to conduct the research.
• Select and apply appropriate research methods to suit the requirements of a specific research question.

Indicative reading list

J Bottomley; Academic Writing for International Students of Science; Routledge (2014)
J Biggam; Succeeding with Your Master's Dissertation: A Step-by-Step Handbook; Open University Press (2011)
M Wallace and A Wray; Critical Reading and Writing for Postgraduates; Sage (2011)
C Dawson; Introduction to Research Methods; HowTo Books (2009)

Subject specific skills

These skills will depend on the nature of the project and the course undertaken

Transferable skills

Researching academic literature;
Critical analysis of sources;
Report writing;
Project planning and execution;
Meeting skills.;
Data analysis skills