Course Resources Archive

This module provides the opportunity for students to study in depth a topic of their own choice within the subject area of the field. Students self-manage an academic investigation of an appropriate topic with support from an adviser.

The content of this module will depend on the student's own interests, but will provide scope for students to demonstrate their ability to research, analyse, synthesise and evaluate appropriate literature and research findings. It may include a practical element, provided that the submitted work retains an academic emphasis.

i. Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of the module, students should be able to:

a) define and analyse a subject of interest
b) justify the selection of appropriate methodologies
c) synthesise and critically evaluate information, literature and methodologies relating to their chosen topic
d) synthesise ideas into appropriate conclusions
e) evaluate alternatives and make recommendations
f) demonstrate innovation or originality
g) evaluate critically both the product and process by which the deliverable(s) were produced.

ii. Skills
By the end of the module students should have developed skills in:

Communications and literacy: Presenting effective discussion of relevant theory; Construction of a personal position case/argument incorporating the use of appropriate terms, diagrams and tables to evaluate concepts presented in the literature that supports their findings.
Problem Solving: Demonstrate extensive investigative skills to support their case/arguments; Selection of appropriate sources of information; Formulate appropriate strategies to verify the theory in question; developing conclusions and/or recommendations as a result of their investigation
Independent learning and working: through completing a sustained self-directed piece that necessitates self-reliance, planning, flexibility, managing information, reflection and resilience.
Information and Communications Technology: by, at a minimum, presenting material that meets the requirements for the format and layout of the essay.

Staff/Student contact: 5% including supporting seminars and discussions with project advisor.
Student private study: 95%

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.