Overview

This module provides the opportunity to work closely with, and be supported by, an expert member of staff on a one-to-one or small group basis to help develop your ideas. You will be supported to advance your understanding of the current knowledge base in an area of interest to you, as well as your critical-thinking, writing and presentation skills in preparation to be able to articulate ideas effectively to relevant parties e.g. practitioners, academics.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -The dissertation proposal will be assessed holistically for content, critical thinking, structure and style. Marks of C+ to C- i.e. a pass / threshold level will be awarded where most or all criteria are met to an acceptable standard. A pass mark will note the level of this work. -good -The dissertation proposal will be assessed holistically for content, critical thinking, structure and style. Marks of B+ to B- i.e. a pass / threshold level will be awarded where most or all criteria are met to a good standard and achieves a merit grade. -excellent -The dissertation proposal will be assessed holistically for content, critical thinking, structure and style. Marks of A*to A- will be awarded where most or all criteria are met to an exceptionally high standard ; the remainder are met to an excellent standard. This work will pass at a distinction level.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically appraise empirical literature in order to formulate an appropriate dissertation aim / question.

• Demonstrate a range of communication skills appropriate to the outcomes of postgraduate study, including the production of a verbal proposal presentation and written dissertation proposal.

• Develop and propose an appropriate methodological approach in line with your dissertation aim / question e.g. a discursive approach, meta-analysis or systematic review.

• Provide evidence of a critical and analytical approach to how scientific data might be collected, organised and interpreted.