Unit information: Dissertation in 2013/14

Unit name	Dissertation
Unit code	PHEDM1002
Credit points	60
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52)
Unit director	Professor. Angie Page
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School for Policy Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

The dissertation should demonstrate that the student understands how to: frame research questions, critique, draw upon and develop appropriate conceptual and theoretical approaches, develop and apply an appropriate research strategy (plan and complete primary data collection and/or identify appropriate secondary data sources), analyse data and draw conclusions that are integrated with wider academic debates.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Intended Learning Outcomes On successful completion of the unit, the student will demonstrate:

1. an ability to frame suitable research questions
2. an understanding of the conceptual and theoretical concerns associated with their chosen topic.
3. an understanding of, and ability to apply an appropriate research methodology to investigate their chosen topic.
4. an ability to analyse data, draw conclusions which are integrated with wider academic debates.
5. an aptitude to independently plan and carry out a sustained piece of research.

Teaching Information

Students will be expected to present their research proposal at a dissertation presentation day, after which they will be assigned a dissertation supervisor. Thereafter individual study will be supported by regular, negotiated academic supervision. A dissertation skills workshop including tips on project management and writing will be delivered to support student progress in their dissertation. Students must have an acceptable research ethics proposal approved by the research ethics committee before beginning their research.

Assessment Information

Lectures, demonstrations, discussions and class exercises. A number of sessions in this unit involve the development of IT-related skills and will be computer labbased.

These sessions will involve computer -based data analysis and exercises designed to provide practical experience and to develop competency in data handling and interpretation. Contributing lecturers include academic staff with particular expertise in their given subject area.

Reading and References

To be negotiated with the supervisor.