1. Evidence that you have executed and conducted your research project competently and with regard to ethical considerations
Application
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Identify, synthesise and critically evaluate the appropriate literature.
Application
Problem Solving
Analysis

3. Design and conduct a methodologically sound programme of research.
Problem Solving
Enquiry
Analysis

4. Analyse and synthesise competently any data.
Knowledge and Understanding
Analysis

5. Critically evaluate the outcomes of the research.
Knowledge and Understanding
Analysis.

6. Synthesise and present key aspects of research findings in a manner and standard professionally associated with the subject specialism (publishing, presenting, or exhibiting, as appropriate and through a blog).
Communication
Reflection
Application

1. An oral presentation of your research work 20%

2. Depending on the discipline you submit either a) an article written up for submission to an agreed peer-reviewed journal or b) a detailed proposal for exhibiting your work. Assessment is based on adherence to either the journal guidelines or the exhibition plan. 70%

3. An example, and reflection of, an externally facing dissemination of your research (e.g., blog, vlog, interview with media). 10%

Assessment 1 is linked to LO 1-6
Assessment 2 is linked to LO’s 1-6
Assessment 3 is linked to LOs 1-6

In this module students will engage in a major research project. The HEFCE definition of research which is, original investigation undertaken in order to gain knowledge and understanding, is used to guide students and supervisors in completing a suitable programme of work. Depending on the discipline a research could comprise, but is not limited to, an empirical investigation, qualitative research, product design, product development, development of materials for an exhibition or performance.

Support will be given to students in respect to project management at the beginning of the project module and research methodology and such discipline specific information will be provided by the Research Supervisor.

Other discipline specific information provided by the Research Supervisor will comprise of some subject specific project management skills, ethical issues, the importance of pilot work and data analysis. Students are required to choose a discipline specific topic for research, identify and critically review appropriate literature, and conduct the research. Students are also required to communicate the research findings in a range of ways. Sessions on presentations, journal article writing and blogs etc will be provided later in the module when preparing for the assessments.

Students will follow a 26 week programme and access support material via Blackboard. Students will be required to access additional support material independently.

It is expected that students will be in regular contact with their supervisor through regular tutorials either on a 1-2-1 basis or where appropriate a small group basis to facilitate horizontal learning. It is recognised that the level and frequency of the contact may vary depending on the discipline and at different times during the project. The meetings can be individual, or group meetings with other students on the award studying a similar topic (or a combination of both).

Taught sessions

24 hours of taught sessions will be provided throughout the two semesters. This will include project management, methodological discussions, reflections on data collection and analysis, dealing with ethical issues and preparation for giving presentations, journal writing and blogs.

Guided Independent Study
The student is expected to engage in 576 hours of independent study. This will include, but is not limited to, arranging meetings with their Research Supervisor, engaging with relevant literature, collecting and analysis data, completing assessments 1-3.

Creswell, J. (2011). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods . Sage: London
Delamont, S., & Atkinson, P. (2004). Successful research careers: A practical guide. Open University Press: Maidenhead.

Saldana, J. (2009). The Coding Manual for Qualitative Researchers. Sage: London

Access to an appropriately specified PC, with accompanying Blackboard, Word, PowerPoint, Adobe and Java software.

Subject specific resources will be provided by the Research Supervisor