This module aims to encourage independent research and hone study and research skills developed earlier in the degree course. Students will be asked to formulate a specific hypothesis relating to journalism and then conduct a systematic and sustained inquiry focused on that hypothesis. Students will conduct secondary research but great value will also be placed on their own primary research efforts. At the end of this year-long module, students will be assessed on a 10,000 word piece of writing that is expected to demonstrate keen analytical skills and logical thinking and offer a cogent, coherent argument that complies with the dissertation model.
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
In the first semester the module will be delivered through a series of fortnightly two-hour seminars that focus on different stages of the dissertation process (e.g. see curriculum content above) The seminars will provide an opportunity for both staff and peer support and help students formulate a regular and realistic work schedule for what is a major undertaking. Students will be allocated a personal supervisor once they have submitted a 1000-word dissertation plan and then academic support will become more tailored to individual needs.
In semester two, supervisors will continue to provide individual support. This will be complemented by fortnightly whole-class sessions that will focus on common concerns such as writing up the dissertation.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 2 hours per fortnight | 24 hours |
| Guided independent study | 276 hours | 276 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Completion of a dissertation on a topic approved by the module leader, under the guidance of an appointed supervisor.
The dissertation will evaluate the students' ability to work independently, research thoroughly and to meet deadlines, as well as to produce an extensive, coherent and convincing piece of written work.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| Study and research independently and doggedly for a sustained period | Formative assessment through academic supervision and summative assessment through the dissertation |
| Demonstrate knowledge of different research methods and justify their chosen method(s) | Formative assessment through academic supervision and summative assessment through the dissertation |
| Demonstrate keen critical and analytical skills in the judicious weighing up of large amounts of information and conflicting opinions and critiques, and in the synthesis of complex ideas | Formative assessment through academic supervision and summative assessment through the dissertation |
| Develop a detailed, logical and cogent argument firmly rooted in their research findings within a limited space and frame of reference | Formative assessment through academic supervision and summative assessment through the dissertation |
| Show a keen understanding of the dissertation process | Formative assessment through academic supervision and summative assessment through the dissertation |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| CWK | 10,000 word dissertation | 100 |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS a requirement that the major category of assessment is passed in order to achieve an overall pass for the module
Baxter, L., Hughes, C., Tight, M. (2010) How to Research, 2nd ed. Open University Press
Rudestam, K. E. and Newton, R.R. (2001). Surviving Your Dissertation: A Comprehensive Guide to Content and Process. 2nd ed, London, Sage
Walliman, Nicholas (2004) Your Undergraduate Dissertation: The Essential Guide for Success. Sage
Brown, Sally, McDowell, Liz and Race, Phil (1995) 500 Tips for Research Students, London. Routledge
Munger, David and Campbell, Shireen (2010) What Every Student Should Know about Researching Online, London. Longman
Swetnam, Derek (2000) Writing Your Dissertation: How to plan, prepare and present successful work
Walliman, Nicholas (2005) Your Research Project: A Step-by-step Guide for the First-time Researcher, Sage