The dissertation enables students to undertake an empirical research project to investigate an in-depth area of study integral to their programme of study.
The module lead will introduce students to key aspects of the research process with biweekly lectures/ workshops. Indicative content includes topics that focus on developing as a researcher, ethics in research, tools for searching and managing literature, the implications of open science for the dissertation, writing a research proposal, research design and methods, analyses and interpretation.
Alongside this content, students will work with their supervisor to determine a focus of the study, and to discuss related theoretical frameworks and associated research, methodology, analysis and application to psychology in education
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Critically review existing literature on a topic as part of the introduction and link this overview to the rationale for their research project
Demonstrate self-directed project management
Show competence in the initiation, design, conducting and reporting on an empirically-based research project under appropriate supervision
Organise and analyse a body of data using appropriate methods and via the collection of original empirical data from participants, or alternative equivalents, such as secondary data analysis or meta-analysis
Demonstrate some recognition of the theoretical, practical and methodological implications and limitations of their research project
Show an awareness of ethical principles and approval procedures and demonstrate these with regard to the research project
Describe the theoretical and empirical significance of the study in a short oral presentation
Write-up a research project up as if for publication
Evaluate the strengths and limitations of the study to inform directions for future research
Assessment
38123-01 : Research Paper : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment: 100% research paper (6000 words quantitaive/ 8000 words Qualitative) Reassessment: resubmisison of failed component