The module will cover the following topics with different emphases being given to each cohort according to their perceived needs:
Differences between research and literature reviews and the importance of context in research,
Qualitative and quantitative research, including interviews, questionnaires, observation, note recording, experimentation and purposes of research data,
Ethics and professional standards including relevant aspects of project management such as time planning (Gantt Charts) and scheduling,
Techniques of proposal writing
Contexts of musical compositions, including historical and current examples,
Methods of data gathering for electronic musical composition including hybrid compositions,
Reflective practice in research including bias and limitations of research.

100% coursework including two deliverables:
1 A reflective review of the research process and its various approaches (2500 words) (Learning Outcomes 1 and 2);
2 A project proposal (500 words) which states the research programme and reflects understanding of the research problem in its context. This will include a discussion of suitable methods for solving the research problem (Learning Outcomes 3 and 4).

A range of teaching and learning strategies will be used, including lectures and seminars. Whenever possible, guest lecturers will be used to widen the student experience by bringing different research approaches. A student-centred approach will facilitate independent learning supported through tutorials and the VLE. (1:n)1, (1:20)2

None

Alvesson, Mats and Skoldberg, Kaj, 2000, Releflexive Methodology, New Vistas for Qualitative Research, London: Sage Publications Inc. ISBN: 978-0803977075
Walliman, Nicholas, 2001, your research project a step-by-step guide for the first-time researcher, London: Sage Publications Ltd. ISBN: 978-0761965398
Wilkins, M L, 2006, Creative Music Composition the Young Composer¿s Voice, New York: Routledge. ISBN: 978-0415974674

None.