Introductory description

N/A.

Module web page

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.

1. Three hours lecture on introduction to research methods and discussion about topic and supervisor selection.
2. Discussion a research proposal with supervisor.
3. Literature review.
4. Collection, interpretation and analysis of data using qualitative and/or quantitative approaches.
5. Dissertation writing based on typical dissertation structure.

Learning outcomes

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

• Demonstrate the ability to explore a topic of their own choosing in depth by means of independent research.
• To apply their critical judgement.
• Use skills in project management, critical discrimination and a sense of proportion in evaluating data and evidence for a substantial project.
• Develop an understanding of the empirical and theoretical literature bearing on their chosen project.
• Understand research methodology.
• Have a thorough understanding of their research findings.
• Ability to identify relevant data.
• Ability to classify and synthesise data.
• In-depth knowledge of the topic selected.

Indicative reading list

Traditional research methods bibliography, e.g. Gray (2013) Doing Research in the Real World.
Then, the supervisor may suggest preliminary reading, but the student will be expected to search out whatever literature is required for the completion of the project.

Research element

Project.

Subject specific skills

Develop the ability to pursue independent research.
Ability to formulate a suitable research question and be able to identify appropriate methods for addressing the question.
Selection and application of appropriate research methods.
Selection of appropriate explanatory theories and their application to data.
Practise the representation of research findings.

Transferable skills

Organise and manage their time to an independent research project.
Organise and write an extended piece of research work of their own using arguments effectively.
Appropriate application of bibliographic search to find data and analysis.
Apply problem-solving skills in a supervised research situation.
Develop written communication skills by completing draft chapters and the final dissertation for summative assessment.
Practice communication skills by discussing progress with the Supervisor and making best use of the consultation meetings by using email and supervisory face to face meetings to communicate with the Supervisor.
Learning, planning, organisation and time management by planning work to meet a set of pre-determined deadlines and preparing for meetings with the Supervisor and observing strict deadlines and schedules.
Showing initiative by exploring a range of data sources including fieldwork and data search and establishing the relevance of this data for the dissertation topic.
Demonstrating adaptability through learning to analyse data and/or undertake field research in a non-structured way.
Research skills.
Project and Time management skills.