IT equipment (including word-processing software)
Library holdings (inter-library loans as appropriate)
Internet servers as appropriate to the topic
CD-ROMs as appropriate to the topic
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

The group-based section of the module will occupy the first part of the semester and culminate (after a period of reflection) in a short research proposal (or abstract) defining the objectives of your chosen topic. The remainder of the module will be taken up by your development of the project, supported by a series of regular consultations with the Project Supervisor. This will culminate in the presentation of a research article or project of approximately 4500-5000 words with full scholarly apparatus.

You will choose a topic you have not previously researched within one of several broad categories to be supervised by Drama and Theatre Arts staff: for example, nineteenth century theatre, opera or music theatre, or contemporary practice, or a 'text' (for example, an author, playwright, play or plays, performance, theatre or theatre company). The topic will then be refined through a process of discussion with other students in a series of tutor-led seminars and tutorials with a supervising member of staff, leading to the submission of a precisely defined topic.

Staffordshire University, Studying Independently guide.
Watson, G. (1987) Writing a Thesis (Longman)
Sample journal articles (e.g. from Modern Drama, New Theatre Quarterly)