Overview

The importance of educational research, Writing a viable thesis proposal, Designing a research question, Ethical considerations, Sourcing and reviewing the literature, Methodology, research design and data collection tools.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Relevant aspects of the subject have been considered critically, without significant omissions. The project is feasible and due account has been given to practical issues. There is evidence of wide and relevant reading, referenced appropriately. The work is coherent and well-presented.

-good -Relevant aspects of the subject have been considered critically, without significant omissions. The work is well-organised, and focused, shows insight, sustained and relevant chains of argument. The project is feasible and due account has been given to practical and ethical issues. There is evidence of wide and relevant reading, referenced appropriately. The work is coherent and well-presented.

-excellent -Relevant aspects of the subject have been considered critically, without significant omissions. The work is original ,well-organised, and focused, shows insight, and an aexceptinal level of analysis. The project is feasible andethical and practical issues have been considered in depth Relevant areas of literature and theory are discussed in depth and referenced appropriately. The work is fluent and well presented.

Learning Outcomes

• Successful students will 1. Have identified a research project which is feasible and has the potential to extend the boundaries of knowledge in the relevant area; 2. Have shown how their proposed project is linked to literature in their chhosen field, including theoretical perspectives 3. Have worked out a rigorous research design, including discussion of methods, possible data collection tools 4. have demonstrated a comprehensive awareness of the practical and ethical issues involved in the proposed project and how these may be tackled.