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The module is a student-led independent study with tutorial support. The dissertation allows students to undertake an investigation on a theme that relates to the aims of their chosen Field of study. Different modes of study are permitted (e.g., empirical investigation, library-based study).

The Dissertation may vary in focus and purpose. The diversity of disciplinary traditions reflected amongst the sports fields (and within each of them) has resulted in a deliberately inclusive approach to the styles of Dissertation that are acceptable. These include:

a) empirical investigation, where there is an emphasis on collection, interpretation, analysis and evaluation of primary data;
b) desk study, where there is an emphasis on an extensive review of literature, with careful synthesis and critical evaluation of the source material.

(NB These illustrative examples are not exhaustive, and other possibilities exist. The spirit of the Dissertation is to permit maximum flexibility for students whilst fulfilling the learning outcomes of the work - see below.).

i. Knowledge and understanding
By the end of the module it is intended that students will be able to:
a) identify an appropriate topic for investigation that reflects the aims of the named Field of study;
b) problematise the topic in order to develop a research question (or set of questions) that are couched in a manner that is compatible with established good practice in the relevant discipline area(s);
c) apply an understanding of the main research paradigms to address the particular research being undertaken;
d) select from a range of appropriate methods those that are suitable for the research question(s) being addressed;
e) synthesise, analyse and critically evaluate a body of knowledge that informs the understanding of the research question(s);
f) contextualise their own findings in relation to the established body of knowledge;
g) undertake careful and creative analysis.

ii. Skills
The learning activities associated with this double module are intended to develop the following:

Transferable skills:
a) sustain a commitment to a major piece of work from initiation to completion;
b) work independently, and exercise informed judgements about the subject at a high level;
c) gather appropriate source material, analyse and draw conclusions from it;
d) present a finished piece of high quality undergraduate scholarship;· manage their time in order to accomplish the above.

Staff/student contact: approximately 5%
Student private study: approximately 95%

Before undertaking the Dissertation work, students will submit a Dissertation Proposal to the module tutor. This proposal will be approved by the Field Board of Studies before students may proceed to Dissertation. A supervisor will be appointed to each student at the start of Level III, and students will have an entitlement of 7.5 hours of tutor contact time during the period for which they are registered for the Dissertation.

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