Overview

This module involves the production of an extended piece of critical writing of a length and quality appropriate to the culmination of the undergraduate degree scheme. Drawing on knowledge and critical methodologies learned earlier in the degree, students are assisted via workshops and individual supervisions in devising, refining, developing and presenting a substantial piece of critical work on a topic of their choosing. The series of introductory lectures and workshops focus on how to develop the initial research idea into a workable project presented in appropriate scholarly form. Students develop critical self-reflection via Research Progress Log and via regular discussions with the supervisor.

This module is a period of supervised research culminating in the submission of a 10,000-word dissertation worth 40 credits. There will be a series of 6 workshops to prepare the students with research skills and the opportunity to attend further optional workshops in the School and the College as appropriate.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold --D Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows: - Generally accurate but with omissions and errors. - Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning. - Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions. - Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

-good --BSubmitted work is competent throughout and distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates: - Very good structure and logically developed arguments. - Draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student. - Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.

-excellent --ASubmitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways: - Has originality of exposition with the student's own thinking being readily apparent. - Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study. - Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

-another level-Submitted work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates: - Good structure and logically developed arguments. - At least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student. - Assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning. - Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply a range of study skills and methodologies appropriate to research in the Arts and Humanities.

• Define a coherent research question, and design and implement a programme of study to investigate this question.

• Embed a substantial piece of academic research within an appropriate set of cultural, social, institutional, economic and/or critical frameworks.

• Work independently to deadline over a sustained period of time.