In this module students will engage in a major research project. Students are required to choose a discipline specific topic for research, identify and critically review appropriate literature, and conduct the research, analyse the data gathered and interpret the findings. The HEFCE definition of research which is, original investigation undertaken to gain knowledge and understanding, is used to guide students and supervisors in completing a suitable programme of work.

Support will be given to students regarding project management and developing dissemination skills. Session will include workshops, seminars and peer-to-peer support sessions. Additionally, research methodology and discipline specific support will be provided by the Research Supervisor as part of individual or small group supervision meetings.

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.

A 10-minute oral presentation (including Q & A) of your research work. 20% (LOs 4 & 5).

A blog post disseminating your research findings which is suitable for a non-specialist audience. 10% (LOs 4 & 5).

An article written up as a draft manuscript which adheres to the guidelines of a peer-reviewed journal where the work could potentially be published. The length of the article will be determined by the guidelines but should be a maximum of 12000 words. 70% (LOs 1-5).



Formative assessment will be giving during class activities (including mini presentations) and the research supervisor will provide formative feedback during meetings and some written feedback on draft of journal manuscript.

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

Scheduled Teaching and Learning Activities 30 hours.

It is expected that students will be in regular contact with their supervisor through regular tutorials (online or on campus) and email support., 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, however, is anticipated that each student will receive approximately 10 hours of support from their supervisor.

In addition to tutorials a programme of 20 hours structured peer support and taught sessions will be scheduled across semesters 2 & 3. Structured tutor and peer support sessions will involve students identifying challenges within their project and the group will work together to suggest solutions. This will help develop students’ problem solving skills, research expertise and understanding of research across a range of disciplines. These sessions will be supplemented by taught sessions, the content of these will be determined by the needs of the group but are likely to include development of project management skills, techniques for recruiting participants and dealing with ethical issues. Finally, there will be sessions dedicated to providing assessment guidance and support including, how to select a suitable journal for publication, understanding of the publication process, developing presentation and research informed blog writing skills.

Guided Independent Study 570 hours. This will include, but is not limited to, arranging and preparing meetings with their Research Supervisor, preparing for taught sessions, engaging with relevant literature, collecting and analysis data, completing assessments 1-3.

Evidence that you have executed and conducted your research project competently and with regard to ethical considerations

Identify, synthesise and critically evaluate the appropriate literature.

Analyse and synthesise competently any data

Critically evaluate the outcomes of the research

Synthesise and present key aspects of research findings in a variety of mediums demonstrating that you can communicate effectively with specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Access to an appropriately specified PC with accompanying Word, PowerPoint, and appropriate data analysis software such as SPSS or NVivo.

Supervisors from across LSE

Creswell, J. W. & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods (5th edition). 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

Additional specialist texts will depend on the students chosen topic area.