This module provides students with an opportunity to undertake an independent research project. Positioned at a midpoint of the programme, the dissertation enables students to consolidate the theoretical knowledge and critical skills acquired in earlier modules. Students will delve into the core concepts and theories underpinning digital media and communications. Students will be required to demonstrate learner independence within a supported environment throughout the module: students will identify a topic that is of interest to them, devise a research question and title of their work; they will plan and carry out research which interrogates their chosen topic, constructing their own arguments and positions on their topic by analysing and reviewing current research on the area of study. The culmination of the research will be the production of a highly polished piece of formal academic writing that demonstrates independent research and highly advanced critical thinking in the subject area.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Identify and state relevant research questions and offer deep insight into critical debates in the study of digital media and communications
Identify, develop and apply appropriate and sophisticated research methodology
Demonstrate advanced critical skills and independence of thought in relation to existing research and in the development of a substantial research outcome.
Construct an argument that is substantiated by analysis and interpretation of appropriate evidence, presenting that argument with clarity and sound organization.
