In this module you will carry out an investigation that makes an original contribution to knowledge in your chosen area of education practice. You will implement the approved research project design, but also, in consultation with your supervisors, be prepared to extend and adjust this.

1. Recognise and identify a significant research question or aim which will make an original contribution to knowledge or the advancement of professional practice in education.
Communication

2. Research and present a critical review of a body of appropriate literature in a way that contextualises and informs your study.
Analysis

3. Conduct with a high degree of autonomy an appropriate research project or enquiry that shows originality and professional relevance as well as ethical and technical research issues.
Enquiry;
Application;
Problem solving

4. Analyse and present your research data in an appropriate manner.
Learning;
Analysis

5. Derive conclusions and professional recommendations based on theoretical and data analysis as appropriate for the nature of the investigation.
Reflection

6. Report and critically appraise your own and others’ work in a way that makes an original contribution to an established body of knowledge and demonstrates relevance to the development of an area of education policy and/or practice.
Knowledge and understanding

Regular supervisory meetings with Principal Supervisor and Second Supervisor. Oral/Written formative feedback from supervisors on draft chapters, research tool design, data analysis, etc. Presentations at research seminars and conferences. Discussion with EdD peers. Opportunities for ongoing formative feedback will be provided.

• University Library for a range of relevant texts, e-books and academic journals.
• Access to academic and library support.

Texts will be specific to the area of investigation. In addition these general texts may be useful:
Kamler, B. and Thomson, P. (2014) Helping Doctoral Students Write. Pedagogies for Supervision, 2nd edn. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge.
Kara, H. (2017) Research and Evaluation for Busy Practitioners, 2nd edn. Bristol: Policy Press.
Lee, N. (2009) Achieving your Professional Doctorate. A Handbook. Maidenhead, Berks: OU Press.
Matthiesen, J. and Binder, M. (2009) How to Survive your Doctorate. What others don’t tell you. Maidenhead, Berks: OU Press.
Murray, R. (2016) How to Write a Thesis, 4th edn. Maidenhead, Berks: OU Press.
Murray, R. (2015) How to Survive your Viva. Defending a Thesis, 3rd edn. Maidenhead, Berks: OU Press.
Scott, D., Brown, A., Lunt, I. and Thorne, L. (2004) Professional Doctorates. Integrating Academic and Professional Knowledge. Maidenhead, Berks: OU Press.
Thomson, P. and Walker, M. (2010) The Routledge Doctoral Students Companion. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge.

Assessment for this module comprises two parts both of which assess the module learning outcomes.

Part 1 ¿ The submission of a thesis (60,000 words maximum), which must be in accordance with the Regulations for the programme. Assesses LOs 1-6.

Part 2 ¿ The written thesis will then be examined orally, by at least one external examiner and one internal examiner, following the existing University procedures for professional doctorates. Assesses LOs 3-6.