A PORTFOLIO weighted at 100%.
(Learning Outcomes 1-4)

You will present for assessment a portfolio of completed coursework, as will be outlined in the Module Information pack.

The portfolio may typically include (but will not be limited to):
Abstract and plans of work and reports

Key Information Set:
100% coursework

This module is concerned with the skills you will need in order to realise your final project and the reports you will complete throughout this course. These skills include research, thinking, writing and presentation. You will research the subject material for your chosen final project in detail, in order to produce a piece of original work in the final module. Advanced Research Methods provides you with the opportunity to consider how to use both primary and secondary research methods in the context of your own area of interest. You will consider a number of argument styles and how to construct a line of reasoning by addressing the key issues of the debate you are entering. You will then consider how to select the most appropriate research tools to investigate your project depending on the nature of the research issue under investigation. You will also appreciate how to use appropriate academic report writing. Focusing on interior design, you will critique current or emerging aspects of the interior design debate. The main focus will be on self instruction, within a framework supported by materials supplied on the VLS. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis and you will be expected to interact with other students on the VLS Community and your tutor.

Delivery is by distance learning with a comprehensive resource handbook on the VLE and available to download, examples of best practice, project templates and email and telephone support being available through our online VLE, individual tutorials and student forum. Specialist knowledge will be delivered by a diverse team of staff and visiting guest lecturers with a variety of relevant backgrounds and experience.

Key Information Set:
10% scheduled teaching and learning activities
90% guided independent study

Bonnett, A. (2011). How to Argue. 3rd edition. Harlow: Pearson Education
Gray, C. & Malins, J. (2012). Visualising Research: a guide to the research process in art and design. 2nd edition., Aldershot: Ashgate Publishing
Mc Millan, K. & Weyers J. (2011). How to Write Dissertations and Project Reports. 2nd edition. Harlow: Pearson Education.
Swetnam, D. & Swetnam, R. (2011). Writing your Dissertation. 3rd edition. Oxford: How To Books.

Library Services
Tutorial Staff
Range of resources on the VLS
Online Community
Athens
www.lynda.com