1. Demonstrate the ability to devise, plan and execute an extended independent piece of work
Enquiry
Subject Specific 2
Learning

2. Critically assess the topic in the context of the previous work of others and current literature
Analysis
Knowledge & Understanding

3. Analyse data in an appropriate critical fashion and draw justified conclusions
Application
Subject Specific 2
Knowledge & Understanding
Problem Solving

4. Demonstrate skills in writing a coherent, structured technical report
Analysis
Application
Communication

5. Be able to respond to challenges to your work and conclusions under oral examination
Application
Communication
Reflection

6. Be able to critically review your own performance and success in meeting the project's aims
Analysis
Communication
Reflection

You will devise, plan, execute and report on a substantial piece of independent research work in chemistry. This will include drafting ethics and risk assessments. The topic will be selected from a list or you can offer your own topic which would need to be agreed with an academic supervisor. It will normally include experimental work or fieldwork, but could be a quantitative critical evaluation of secondary data which you have assembled from literature or other sources. In all cases the project should reflect the scientific base of the award. The topic will not normally overlap significantly with other independent work at level 3. The module will allow you to develop skills in defending your work through a viva-voce examination. You will need to select, deploy and adapt techniques, critically interpret and evaluate data, and present your findings both in writing and orally. The viva will mimic a job interview situation where you will submit a CV and covering letter as application for a position you have found advertised. As part of the interview you will be expected to give a concise verbal summary of your project, its finding and their significance.

A PORTFOLIO of work consisting 4 elements.

The following elements allow the student to demonstrate their development throughout the module.
1. PROJECT PROPOSAL (1000 words) outlining initial ideas on the project which should contain a summary of the background to the topic, an initial plan of work with appropriate risk assessment and ethics considerations (10%), addressing outcomes 1,2.

2. A LAB BOOK showing weekly progress throughout the project and how ideas have evolved on the basis of results obtained (10%), addressing outcomes 1,6

3. A VIVA-VOCE EXAMINATION (10%) based on a job application and submitted curriculum vitae (pass / fail 0%) and including a question and answer session on the project showing an appreciation of its findings and significance in a wider context, addressing outcome 5 (Final Assessment)

4. A WRITTEN REPORT (8000 - 10000 words) detailing the background, methodology, experimental programme, results and discussion and conclusions and recommendations for further work, (70%) addressing outcomes 1-4 and 6.

Students will be provided with formative assessment and feedback via regular meetings with their supervisor.

A series of preparative workshops and supervisory meetings (15 hours) will form the framework for learning within this module. The remaining time (285 hours) will allow you to arrange regular meetings with your supervisor and pursue your own independent research and learning, culminating in the production of the project report. Your meetings with your supervisor will include sessions on writing a CV.

No specific texts are recommended

An appropriate well equipped laboratory and/or field facilities. Library and information facilities. A module handbook. Supervisory support and guidance. Blackboard VLE

Progress to level 6 of a chemistry course and have studied – FORE50338 Research and Professional Skills for Chemists.