Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LH Final Year Extended Independent Study Module in Modern Languages
School	Lan, Cult, Art Hist & Music
Department	Modern Languages
Module Code	09 36148
Module Lead	Lucy O’Sullivan
Level	Honours Level
Credits	40
Semester	Full Term
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-1 hours Project supervision-2 hours Guided independent study-397 hours Total: 400 hours
Exclusions
Description	This module allows students to focus on an area of specific interest to them and to produce a dissertation based on their research. In consultation with an academic supervisor who is a specialist in the area, the student will plan and carry out the project. A preliminary session run by the module convenor will provide background information and help in project planning. One-to-one supervisions with the expert supervisor will help the student to define the research questions/ topic, decide on an appropriate methodology, and engage with existing critical debates. A 12,000 word dissertation will be produced by the end of the module. Supervisors will provide comments and written feedback on two dissertation plans and two 750-1000 word writing samples at appropriate points in the academic year.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Demonstrate an ability to start the research process by choosing a topic, formulating specific research questions and distinguishing between appropriate methods; Demonstrate an ability to work independently while collecting, organizing and analysing material/data and applying relevant research methods; Appraise their specific research question in the light of the relevant theoretical and cultural contexts (including a thorough review of the available literature); critically evaluate the materials/ data collected to engage creatively with relevant debates; Present a well-structured dissertation, employing appropriate academic conventions (including referencing, bibliography, etc).
Assessment	36148-01 : Dissertation (12,000 words) : Dissertation (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: 12,000-word dissertation. Reassessment: No resits are permitted in final year. If students miss the assessed task owing to extenuating circumstances, the failed task would be rescheduled at a later date.
Other
Reading List