1. Utilise established research techniques and sources to create or interpret knowledge at the forefront of Customer and Data Analytics
Enquiry
Learning
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Demonstrate self-direction. Planning and originality in completing an advanced level research project working independently but with support from a supervisor
Analysis
Enquiry
Knowledge and Understanding
Reflection

3. Demonstrate a professional approach to problem resolution, including analysis, design and implementation, based on a logical, scientific and well-engineered methodology
Analysis
Application
Problem Solving

4. Show the absorption, critical evaluation and extension of existing knowledge in a field of Customer Data Analytics and the development of new skills and understanding
Application
Knowledge and Understanding
Reflection

5. Communicate and defend the process and conclusions of the Dissertation orally and through a written document
Communication

6. Act in an ethically responsible manner, fully in compliance with professional codes of conduct taking into account
Analysis
Reflection

7. Clearly address emerging issues in Customer and Data Analytics including global and environmental issues standards and security
Enquiry
Application
Problem Solving

Final written Dissertation document 85% 12,000 -14,000 addressing (Learning Outcomes 1 to 7)

A final VIVA VOCE consisting of a presentation and defence of the dissertation and associated deliverables with the supervisor, second assessor and independent assessor 15% 30 minutes addressing (Learning Outcomes 1 to 7)

This is a major piece of work to be carried out on INDIVIDUAL BASIS. During your Dissertation you will be expected:
• To demonstrate a deep understanding of the core knowledge of your chosen domain
• To demonstrate a high level of technical skill by identifying and investigating a significant problem relevant to your chosen domain
• To develop an appropriate solution to the chosen problem with ‘proof of concept’
• To work with a ‘live’ or simulated client to give the dissertation an applied flavour
In the course of your dissertation project you will be expected to address issues of:
• codes of conduct and expectations of good practice
• Legal, social, ethical and professional issues
• Risk assessment and mitigation, health and safety issues and problem reduction strategies
• Principles of project management
• Development and/or enhancement of digital capabilities
• Cultural, global and environmental issues
• Copyright and intellectual properties

8 hours of one-to-one supervisory meetings (over Skype) over a 16 week (maximum) period. 12 hours of class contact in the supporting online lectures.
A typical Dissertation requires you to create the following deliverables or outcomes:
• A Proposal to be uploaded to Blackboard and approved by your Module/Course Leader
• An Ethical Approval Form and Risk Assessment document to be uploaded to Blackboard and approved by the Course Leader before going to the Ethics Committee
• A definition of the project describing the background, aim and objectives, deliverables and resources, etc.
• A research programme explaining and justifying your methodology
• A literature review in the relevant domains identifying the key theories and examples, etc.
• A narrative describing the analysis and development of an artefact (whose nature will depend on your award)
• A test plan, documentation and results
• A critical evaluation of the project with conclusions and suggestions for further work, etc.
You will find (or be allocated) a supervisor and it is expected that you will meet on a bi-weekly basis for approximately 30 minutes. In addition, you must attend timetabled lectures (or via Skype) that will run for the first semester of the module. Supervisory meetings will address issues relevant to your individual dissertation project and the lectures will cover the general points that apply to all Dissertations.

Recommended texts:
Biggam, J. (2018) Succeeding with Your Master’s Dissertation: A Step-by-Step Handbook. 2nd Edn. Open University Press, ISBN: 0335243215
Swetnam, D and Swetnam, R. (2000) Writing Your Dissertation: The bestselling guide to planning, preparing and presenting first-class work. How-to Books, Oxford. ISBN: 185703662X
Wallace, M. (2016) Critical Reading and Writing for Postgraduates (SAGE Study Skills Series), Sage Publications Ltd; 3 edition, ISBN-10: 1412961823

You will need access to these resources:
• The Module Handbook and the Blackboard virtual learning environment;
• Guided reading material Text books, journals and recommended online resources in the research domain;
• Word processing, statistical analysis and presentation graphics software;
• Relevant software and hardware to be determined as part of the scoping of the dissertation.