Dissertation length 15,000 - 20,000 Words

Achievement of postgraduate diploma with 120 credits

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.

e-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.

Formative feedback will be given in on-line discussion and feedback with supervisors.

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.

The dissertation module provides an exciting opportunity to apply your skills and understanding to the development of a substantial and distinctive piece of written work. The emphasis is on student-led learning, but you will also be offered excellent support from an experienced supervisor. The dissertation enables you to apply the breadth of research skills necessary for the delivery of a successful project. This includes framing the research problem, building your design, and carrying out the study itself. The dissertation is a hugely rewarding creative process and we look forward to supporting you on your research journey!