Dissertation

Module Identifier
IL30340
Module Title
Dissertation
Academic Year
2026/2027
Semester
Semester 2 Taught over 2 semesters
Co-ordinator
Dr Anoush Simon
Reading List
View on Aspire
Other Staff
Jennie Hill
Ms Tanya Rogers
Dr Julie Mathias
Dr Allen Foster
Dr Sue Lithgow
Dr Anoush Simon
Dr Sarah Higgins

Assessment

Assessment Type

Assessment details

Proportion
Semester Assessment Proposal: 1500 Words 10%
Semester Assessment Dissertation: 7500-10000 words 90%
Supplementary Assessment Dissertation: 7500-10000 words 90%
Supplementary Assessment Proposal: 1500 Words 10%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

  1. 1. Identify and select a topic suitable for a dissertation study.
  2. 2. Carry out a literature search and review.
  3. 3. Devise appropriate research methodologies.
  4. 4. Conduct a small-scale research project.
  5. 5. Devise a research proposal for a small-scale project.
  6. 6. Write a dissertation of 7500 – 10000 words.
  7. 7. Demonstrate the ability to manage a small-scale project.

Brief description

The module covers approaches to the planning, design, research and writing of a dissertation. The aim is to produce a sustained piece of academic work with a definite purpose, a coherent argument and a relevant outcome. It gives the student a chance to build on what has been learnt in the degree so far, and to develop their skills in independent learning.

Content

Content of the module will include:
Introduction – what is a dissertation; choosing a topic.
Topic development - individual subject tutorials with relevant staff.
Dissertation evaluation – what makes a good research project? Selecting appropriate research methods for the topic. Managing the project – the structure and process of the dissertation.
Research ethics.
Advisor support – up to six hours individual tuition/support from assigned advisor

Module skills

Skills type

Skills details
Application of Number Where appropriate, through analysis of statistical data.
Communication Writing skills; also communication with academic advisor and potential research participants.
Improving own Learning and Performance Through independent project management and reflection on the research process.
Information Technology Website searches will be used identify appropriate primary and secondary sources, and assignments will be word processed. IT use where appropriate – may be used in data analysis.
Personal Development and Career planning Development of the ability to undertake independent project work and understand how this relates to the profession and professional development.
Problem solving Development of topic and decision making in regard to research methods and research design.
Research skills Conducting literature search and review; fieldwork; collection, analysis and presentation of data.
Subject Specific Skills Integrates skills and knowledge developed during the course, through an in depth treatment of a single topic of direct relevance to the field. Developing an understanding of academic subject and the relationship to professional issues.
Team work Working with advisor and research participants.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6