Module handbook
Access to appropriate texts
Computer facilities will be needed to access material available on the web and specialist on-line data bases

Denscomve, M. (2007) The Good research Guide, Open University Study Skills, Open University Press
Denscombe, M. (2010) Ground Rules for Social Research, Open University Study Skills, Open University Press
Dolowitz, D. (2008) Researching Online Palgrave Macmillan Basingstoke [England] ; New York
Greetham, B. (2009) How to Write you Undergraduate Dissertation, Palgrave Study Skills

1. A zero weighted planning form to be submitted in semester 1 with a sample bibliography.

2. The introduction and chapter 1 of the dissertation (3,000 words). This represents 30% of the module and will be submitted in semester 1.

3. Chapters 2 and 3, and the conclusion to the dissertation (5,000 words), this represents 70% of the module and will be submitted in semester 2.

The successful completion of 1, 2 and 3 will ensure that LO's 1-4 are met.

All elements of assessment must be passed

The project is a piece of scholarship in which students have the opportunity to study in depth a topic of their own choosing, in partnership with a relevant staff member who is able to supervise this topic.

The topic will integrate the knowledge, skills that the student has attained whilst on the course.

Directed and detailed guidance on the development of research skills will include:

- Guidance on methods of carrying out a literature review of the research topic.
- Guidance on other methods of empirical research e.g. questionnaires, interviews and small-scale structured surveys, where appropriate.
- Detailed guidance on the practical application of research skills in the production of an extended written dissertation on a subject of the student's choice.

In preparation for the dissertation students will receive 11 structured teaching sessions on research methods

Students will then have access to a supervisor, or a supervisory team, who will aid the student in planning their progress..

Structured dissertation advice will be provided.
Relevant staff will be chosen in relation to the student's topic of research.

The focus of this module is on a mix of independent as well as directed study. This will be VLE based information and guidance followed by individual supervision.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (25 hours)
22 hours Lectures - 11 x 2 hours
3 hours Supervisor contact 6 x 30 mins

Guided Independent Study: (275 hours) means on-line and off-line asynchronous activity including research design and development, working within the discussion forums, conducting relevant background/supplementary reading, and assessment preparation and completion.

This module will be supplemented by the use of a VLE.

The VLE ' will provide a structured environment for progressing through this module. The 'Course Information' section contains essential module information, the award handbook, the module descriptor and a section, which contains the aims and objectives of the module. The 'Course Documents' section contains all the study/guidance material necessary to complete the module together with two key tasks which are designed to provide students with structured feedback for tutors. Within the 'Communication' section there are a number of forums, which will enable interactive, asynchronous discussion, which supports student learning and allows for formative assessment of individual progress.

1. Exhibit and apply a range of research skills. SG6 (Enquiry)

2. Transpose material necessary to produce a coherent and structured extended essay which shows relevant knowledge and understanding. SG1 (Analysis, Knowledge and Understanding, Learning)

3. Synthesise a range of sources other than basic materials, which informs the discussion of the topic being investigated. SG5 (Analysis)

4. Critically analyse the area being analysed. SG5 (Analysis)

This module will harness and develop the skills you have acquired during your studies. It provides you with the opportunity to apply further scrutiny to the Social Welfare Law topic that has fascinated you the most. You are then able to conduct a rigorous and in-depth exploration of this chosen topic area. While the module places the emphasis on student-led learning, you will be well supported by a designated supervisor. Classroom sessions at the commencement of the module will also provide the focus required for you to produce of a substantial piece of desk research. The student-led nature of this dissertation will provide valuable skills that you will be able to apply in employment or further study.