100% coursework including a number of deliverables (Learning outcomes 1-4):

- Each student will develop his or her own personal planning portfolio.
- Individual and group presentations.
- A short technical report (1-2 pages) including full referencing. (20%)
- Presentation of the proposed research area. (5-10 minutes).
- A review paper of literature and background investigation of the research project (guide 2-3 pages). (40%)
- An abstract of proposed dissertation project which outlines the topic of research, preliminary research problems, aims/objectives and deliverable (guide 2-3 pages). (20%)
- Dissertation project proposal, which states research programme and reflects the understanding of the research problem in its context and methods adopted in the project (guide 5-6 pages). (20%)

Lectures to familiarise students with the My Portfolio web based system, Career Planning, Management of time and preparation for Examinations.
Setting up and maintaining an individual personal development record (PDR).
Reflection on personal development in both an academic and a broader context.

Familiarisation of International Students with the UK academic systems and giving them opportunities to articulate their concerns about a new and unfamiliar environment.
Access to support mechanisms including Visa and Work regulations.
The balance between Academic Study and Part-time Work.
The importance of correct referencing in reports.
Opportunity for UK students to become aware of other cultures and the implications for example when undertaking group work.

Opportunities for students to reflect on and discuss the expectations of a Masters Level Award.

Transferable skills that will assist the student in their future career planning including obtaining a placement and for further postgraduate study. These include developing skills to enable individuals to sell themselves through the development of personal presentation skills, conducting interviews to assist in research and producing technical reports.

Refine skills in project planning, organisation of study materials, presentation and dissemination of research, research proposal specification, techniques of research report writing.

Methods and skills of literature research, gathering of data from a range of sources, selecting and using appropriate technologies available (e.g. library, digital library, Internet facilities and other sources).

The professional issues ever present in the environment, including health and safety, standards, ethical and social issues, professional bodies.

Techniques required to analyse data and to present the results in a suitable format.

Research proposal specification, regulations and supervisor's role. A student will demonstrate a wide range of professional and IT skills such as producing technical documents, research papers and outline project proposals and plans.

A range of teaching and learning strategies will be employed, including lectures, guest speakers, group work, role-play, independent supported learning and collaborative work. A student-centred approach will be adopted including, involving an independent supported learning environment.

Marshall & Rossman (1999) Designing Qualitative Research, Sage, Third Edition, ISBN: 0761913408

Sharp & Howard, (1996) The Management of a Student Research Project (2 ed), Aldershot Gower, ISBN: 056607706 X

Oliver, P. (1997) Research, Teach Yourself Books, NTC Publishing Group, ISBN: 0844200158

Cottrell, Stella (2003), Skills for Success, Palgrave MacMillan, ISBN 1-4039-1132-0

PC with Office
University PDP website - My Portfolio.
Access to the Internet
Library

Must be enrolled on a FCET MSc programme.