Glathorn, A. (1998) Writing the winning dissertation: A step by step guide. London: Corwin Press. ISBN 0803966776
Hart.C (1998) Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the social science research Imagination, London: Sage Publications ISBN 0761959742.
Hart.C (2001) Doing a Literature Search: a comprehensive guide for the social sciences, London: Sage Publications ISBN 0761968091.
Hart.C (2005) Doing your Masters Dissertation Sage: London ISBN 0761942173

Note: These are only guides. Modifications and a list of active current web sites will be provided in a separate booklet produced by the award team.

Achievement of postgraduate diploma with 120 credits

Library.
CD-ROM.
Personal Computer.
Access to the internet.
Appropriate software according to the type of analysis required by the chosen research method.
Remember that you may need to negotiate access to clinical facilities, equipment, podiatrists and patients according to the research questions you are asking.

Learning will be self-directed, supported through the process of supervision and focussed upon achieving the learning outcomes. Regular tutorials with supervisors will be offered with the maintenance of a paper based written record of the meetings to provide feedback and support. Group discussions and seminar presentations will be offered to provide opportunities for the sharing of experiences/progress which are also intended to provide a mechanism for informal peer support and develop a post-graduate research culture amongst your group

In this module you will demonstrate your ability to undertake a piece of research of your choosing investigating an aspect from your subject area. You must focus your research in the research area forming the title of your final award.

In the early stages of the module you will need to demonstrate an ability to persue the development of a research proposal in conjunction with your supervisor. This will very likely involve revisiting and revising some of your earlier work. You will need to take your proposal through approval processes, including adherence to ethical protocols where necessary/appropriate.

In the dissertation you will need to critically evaluate philosophical issues, the research method employed, ethical issues associated with conducting the research or in appraising the existing published research, analyse the data collected, reflect upon and evaluate the findings and make a statement that demonstrates how your findings may influence your specialist subject area.

In addition, you will present a seminar based on a critical evaluation of your research.

Pass
Proficient, fluently, presented arguments that demonstrate understanding of theoretical issues in the
application of knowledge.
Work includes critical analysis that demonstrates breadth and depth of literature and knowledge in the
subject area, and originality in presentation.
The use of evidence demonstrates an understanding of the advancement of the boundaries of knowledge
and is used as a basis for problem - solving.
Referencing is complete and accurate.
Merit:
A piece of work which meets all the requirements of a pass grade and in addition:
Presents arguments which have been underpinned by a thorough exploration of data and conceptual -
based evidence which may go beyond the boundaries of the discipline. Discussion communicates ideas
and arguments logically, concisely, clearly and effectively.
Distinction:
An outstanding piece of work which meets all of the requirements of a merit grade and in addition:
Demonstrates creativity and innovation.
There is substantial evidence of critique, challenge and original thought.
The arguments presented are compelling and authoritative and demonstrate synthesis to support new
ideas