Overview

The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. It may involve practical experimentation in the laboratory and/or field or a non-experimental study. It is conducted under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The module also provides opportunities for students to develop their own ideas, to show initiative, to work on their own and to follow an agreed plan, and for these attributes to be assessed. The project must be written up in the form of a research honours project, to a specified format. In addition, it will also be assessed by an oral presentation in a group seminar.

The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. The students' initial choice of dissertation topic will be organised prior to the start of the module. There will be a series of short lectures introducing the module and providing additional instruction on how to formulate aims and objectives, the literature process, data presentation, and how to structure their report. After this initial scaffolding students will work independently but supported by their supervisor. Midway through the process each student will give a short oral presentation to an audience containing both fellow students and staff iand then develop this into their final dissertation, following a clearly proscribed format.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Grade D- to D+A basic review of the scientific literature pertinent to the topic of research, some evidence of data collation and analysis or problem solving, basic review and appraisal of data presented (a) as a rudimentary but competent written dissertation and (b) as an adequate oral presentation

-good -Grades C- to B+ A good review of the scientific literature pertinent to the topic of research, clear evidence of data collation and analysis or problem solving, critical review and appraisal of data presented (a) as a detailed, tabulated and/or illustrated dissertation showing clear understanding of the topic and the research questions posed and (b) as a strong, confident oral presentation.

-excellent -Grades A- and aboveA thorough review of the scientific literature pertinent to the topic of research, extensive data collation and analysis or problem solving, excellent and critical review and appraisal of data presented (a) as a highly creative, insightful, carefully argued, tabulated and/or illustrated dissertation and (b) as a riveting, entertaining, tightly argued oral presentation.

Learning Outcomes

• Communicate accurately and effectively using appropriate methods including the presentation of initial findings in an oral presentation

• Competently present a written Dissertation using tabulation, illustration and correct referencing methodology.

• Critically read, assimilate, review and analyse evidence (data/literature) associated with a specified natural resource management issue

• Search for, find and bring together published information and data relevant to a specific chosen topic of research.

• Work effectively as an individual to achieve targets and meet requirements