Overview

This module is designed to enable to pursue advanced level of research and/or data collection and analysis through a sustained piece of writing on a research area to be determined by student and tutor. This module offers the opportunity for the postgraduate to submit a portfolio of work of independent research (guided by tutorial supervision) addressing an enquiry which might not be on offer within the existing range of core and optional postgraduate modules within the existing menu in the home CAH School. The intellectual format of the portfolio will be agreed by tutor and student and will present an ideal outlet in which to demonstrate the student's archaeological skills, practices and academic abilities: including the ability to construct carefully researched and organised piece(s) of writing; the ability to abide by scholarly practices of notation and referencing; the ability to engage at an advanced level with critical approaches to the chosen field of enquiry; the ability to collect archaeological data and to use it in different ways; the ability to record and present archaeological data in different ways; the ability to formulate argumentation at an advanced level.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -C/50%Some evidence of substantial and pertinent reading, though with a limited understanding and appreciation. A limited understanding of the implications of some of the concerns of the chosen field of enquiry.

-good -B/60%Comprehensive coverage of chosen field of enquiry. High level of organisation and structure. Advanced and sustained level of critical analysis of chosen material.

-excellent -A/70%Sophisticated and substantial understanding and appreciation of a substantial body of research. Complex and sophisticated appreciation of most of the concerns of the chosen field of enquiry.

Learning Outcomes

• Consider differing critical attitudes to the chosen field of enquiry.

• Show an awareness of the differing ways in which archaeological data can be collected, analysed and interpreted.

• Understand and discuss at an advanced level and in a sustained manner aspects of the chosen field of enquiry.