Unit information: Dissertation in 2019/20

Unit name	Dissertation
Unit code	SPOL30046
Credit points	40
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Mulvihill
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	SOAD20004 Social Research Methods (2nd year unit)
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School for Policy Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

The dissertation is a piece of independent study enabling the student to select a field of inquiry from within Criminology and carry out research in depth over a sustained period of time. Student learning is supported by regular meetings with their adviser, social research methods workshops, and symposiums, though the expectation is that the dissertation is primarily an individual piece of work. The unit aims to:

1. provide the student with the chance to investigate a topic of their own choice (within the broad framework of their discipline)
2. enable the student to develop and apply knowledge and understanding gained elsewhere in the programme through independent study and learning
3. enable the student to enhance the practical and transferable skills of locating and using knowledge and information, conveying ideas in written format, planning and managing their time
4. Enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of social research methods through application in a project of their devising

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, the student will demonstrate:

1. A critical understanding of theory/concepts and/or research relevant to their chosen topic;
2. The ability to plan and undertake an extended piece of independent work within criminology
3. An understanding of, and the ability to select appropriately from, social research approaches;
4. Understanding and application of principles of ethical practice

Teaching Information

Individual study supported by regular academic supervision (approximately 5 hours)

Workshops focused on supporting the identification and application of appropriate research methods and forms of analysis (approximately 24 hours)

Ability to present their project at different stages to peers and staff at symposiums and other related events

Formative : A review of literature and research methods (2000 words) as preparation for the summative assessment

Assessment Information

Summative :

A 10,000 word dissertation to test that the learning outcomes have been met.

Reading and References

Ball, S. (2012) The complete guide to writing your dissertation: advice, techniques and insights to help your enhance your grades, Oxford: Oxford University Press

Bell, J (2010, 5^th ed) Doing your Research Project: a Guide for First Time Researchers in Education, Health and Social Science. Buckingham: Open University Press

Roberts, C. (2010) A Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Writing, and Defending Your Dissertation, (2^nd ed) London: Sage