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).

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.

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.

The FACT Technology Laboratories and Studios

Media stores / resource centre
Music laboratories

Microsoft Office software

Books, eBooks and audio recordings via the Library
Lynda.com Training library

Greenfield, T (2002) Research Methods for Postgraduates Wiley
Hall, G (2008) The Postgraduate’s Companion Sage
Kumar, R (2014) Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners Sage
Dawson, C (2009) Introduction to Research Methods How To Books

1. SHOW AN UNDERSTANDING OF DIFFERENT RESEARCH METHODS AND THEIR APPLICABILITY WITHIN MUSIC TECHNOLOGY.
[Knowledge and Understanding]

2. DEMONSTRATE AN ABILITY TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTATION WHICH INCLUDES SOUND ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE.
[Application]

3. ANALYSE CRITICALLY METHODS OF COMPOSITION WITHIN DIFFERENT CONTEXTS.
[Analysis]

4. REFLECT CRITICALLY ON THE RESEARCH PROCESS.
[Reflection]

This module prepares you for undertaking a sustained research based project such as the dissertation. It exposes you to a wide range of different research approaches while allowing you to focus on those areas which interest you the most. In the course of this module you will produce a detailed proposal which may be used for the dissertation, while also learning techniques for writing literature reviews.