Achievement of postgraduate diploma with 120 credits

Successful completion of this module will require you to have access to your own computer and good internet access

Learning support

Additional study support is available from our Academic Skills team, who can help you with:
• Study skills (including reading, note-taking, presentation skills)
• Written English (including punctuation, grammar)
• Academic writing (including how to reference)
• Research skills
• Critical thinking
• Revision, and assessment skills (including time management)

Additional needs support:
If you have additional needs such as dyslexia or a sensory impairment, then our AccessAbility Services are here to help make sure nothing stands in your way.

Self-directed learning will be supported through the process of supervision. Regular tutorials with an allocated supervisor will be offered and this will provide a framework of support for you to conduct your study. An induction day comprising lectures and group discussions provides the foundation for the development of informal peer support within your group.

In this dissertation module you will demonstrate your ability to undertake a piece of research of your choosing. Your research must be situated within the topic area of your course. In the early stages of the module you will need to formulate a workable research proposal, with support from your supervisor. This is likely to build upon work undertaken in your previous modules. You will need to take your proposal through relevant approval processes, adhering to ethical protocols where appropriate. Formative feedback will be provided during tutorials with supervisors. Throughout the dissertation process you will need to demonstrate critical evaluation of the philosophical underpinnings of research, research methods, ethical issues, secondary sources, and the data obtained. You will also need to evaluate and reflect upon the findings generated by your research process and demonstrate how they could positively influence your specialist subject area.

Dissertation length 15,000 - 20,000 Words

Bell, J. & Waters, S. (2018) Doing Your Research Project: A Guide for First-time Researchers. Maidenhead: Open University
Bettany-Saltikov, J. & McSherry, R. (2016) How to do a Systematic Review in Nursing: A step-by-step guide. London: Open University.
Creswell, J. & Creswell, J. (2018) Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. London: Sage.
Largan, C. & Morris, T. (2019) Qualitative Secondary Research: A step-by-step guide. London: Sage.

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!

1. PLAN, ORGANISE AND CONDUCT A PIECE OF RESEARCH INTO A TOPIC RELATED TO YOUR SPECIALIST SUBJECT AREA.
Analysis
Application
Enquiry
Knowledge & Understanding
Learning
Problem Solving

2. REFLECT CRITICALLY ON THE PROCESSES INVOLVED IN PREPARING FOR, AND CONDUCTING RESEARCH
Analysis
Reflection

3. DEMONSTRATE INTELLECTUAL AND ACADEMIC RIGOUR IN THE APPLICATION OF RESEARCH METHODS Application
Knowledge & Understanding

4. CRITICALLY EVALUATE AND CONVEY THE FINDINGS OF THE RESEARCH IN RELATION TO THE ADVANCEMENT OF YOUR SPECIALIST SUBJECT AREA
Analysis
Communication