Overview

The dissertation is an independent piece of writing on a topic selected by the candidate in consultation with a member of staff and approved by the Board of Examiners. This selection and approval takes place in the summer term immediately preceding Year 3.

The dissertation should answer one (or more than one) specified research question. The work should take account of previous relevant research but demonstrate originality of mind in approach and argument. Credit will be given for quality of ideas, clarity and logic of argument and presentation, suitability of bibliography, and elegance of presentation.

The dissertation will be accompanied by seminars on the research, bibliography and methodology skills required for writing the dissertation.

The dissertation is an independent piece of writing on a subject selected by the candidate in consultation with a member of staff and approved by the Board of Examiners. The writing should take account of previous relevant research but demonstrate originality of mind in approach and argument. Credit will be given for quality of ideas, clarity and logic of argument and presentation, suitability of bibliography, and elegance of presentation. The dissertation will be accompanied by seminars on the research, bibliography and methodology skills required for writing the dissertation.

Overall aims and purpose • to build on and enhance musicological skills acquired in Year 2 • to enhance originality and depth of thought • to enhance skills in dealing with issues in current musicology, ethnomusicology and/or musical analysis • to enhance skills in the search for use of primary and secondary scholarly material • to refine skills in argument, writing and presentation

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D-: Work which displays basic, restricted knowledge of the subject, with simple ability at conceptual thought, and a limited awareness of issues, but has some evidence of a generally intellectual approach, with fair expression

-good -B-: The work should display a sound grasp of the subject, a good level of conceptual thought, awareness of the main issues, with evidence of intellectual acumen and good expression

-excellent -A: Work which displays a thorough grasp of the subject, with evidence of further study, deeper thought, originality of approach and excellent written skills

Learning Outcomes

• On completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate advanced skills in the search for and the use of primary and secondary scholarly resources.

• On completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate possession of advanced communication skills, using appropriate conventions.

• On completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate possession of powers of sustained independent inquiry.

• On completion of this module, students will be able to devise, plan and execute an original research project from start to finish.

• On completion of this module, students will be able to think in an original and profound manner.