BSM9960 - MASTERS DISSERTATION IN MANAGING THE ENVIRONMENT

Module Identifier

BSM9960

Module Title

MASTERS DISSERTATION IN MANAGING THE ENVIRONMENT

Academic Year

2005/2006

Co-ordinator

Dr Aileen R Smith

Semester

Semester 3 (Summer)

Assessment

Assessment Type	Assessment Length/Details	Proportion
Semester Assessment	Produce a 15-20,000wird (maximum) research thesis.	100%
Supplementary Assessment	Students will be required to resubmit the thesis.	100%

Learning outcomes

On completion of this modules, students should be able to:

devise testable hypotheses, define focused aims and objectives
assimilate and synthesise information from published research
work competently and safely in the lab/field to produce robust data
demonstrate proficiency in statistical and research methodologies
present research data in the generic format required for a scientific thesis
evaluate research data in a wider context
conduct research searches using library, IT and database resouces
manage time efficiently by setting realistic goals and targets.

Brief description

The research project involves independent study by the student on a relevant topic in managing the environment. Students can put into practice techniques and research skills acquired in earlier modules including experimental design, data generation and handling and thesis writing. A range of project topics will be offered by staff depending on their research interests and expertise. There is also the possibility of project work with outside agencies with which IBS has collaborations.

Content

Initially the student will define an area of research interest as a result of background reading and prior knowledge, interest and expertise.

Having focused the objectives and devised the experimental design, the student will then be responsible for data collection through the appropriate vehicle e.g. lab/field or both.

Interpretation of data in the wider context of published literature.

Preparation, completion and submission of thesis.

Module Skills

Problem_solving	Students will identify a research avenue and will be responsible for finding appropriate solutions to the scientific problem identified.
Research skills	These skills are integral to the module.
Communication	Writing skills will be developed through the production of the research thesis.
Improving own Learning and Performance	Students will need to take responsibility for their own learing from published materials and settign feasible goals and targets for successful submission.
Team work	Students may have the opportunity for developing their team skills by interacting with other researchers in the field/lab. However the emphasis in this module is on independent research.
Information Technology	Students will need to use a variety of software packages for thesis production, data analysis and data mining of databases.
Application of Number	Given that the objective of research is to aquire good quality data which is then analysed appropriately, the application of number is integral to this module.
Personal Development and Career planning	It is intended that the techniques and skills developed during this module will have an important voc\ational value. Students should also gain confidence in their ability to work independently.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 7