Unit information: Dissertation (with Quantitative Research Methods) (Childhood Studies) in 2020/21

Unit name	Dissertation (with Quantitative Research Methods) (Childhood Studies)
Unit code	SPOL30031
Credit points	40
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Gumy
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	POLI20001 Conducting a Research Project using secondary data SOCI20069 Principles of Quantitative Social Science
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School for Policy Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

The dissertation is a piece of independent study enabling the student to select a field of inquiry from within Childhood Studies and carry out research in depth over a sustained period of time. Student learning is supported by regular meetings with their adviser, social research methods workshops, and symposiums, though the expectation is that the dissertation is primarily an individual piece of work. The unit aims to:

1. provide the student with the chance to investigate a topic of their own choice (within the broad framework of their discipline)
2. enable the student to develop and apply knowledge and understanding gained elsewhere in the programme through independent study and learning
3. enable the student to enhance the practical and transferable skills of locating and using knowledge and information, conveying ideas in written format, planning and managing their time
4. Enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of social research methods through application in a project of their devising.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, the student will demonstrate

1. A critical understanding of theory/concepts and/or research relevant to their chosen topic, demonstrating proficiency in the use of quantitative research methods.
2. The ability to plan and undertake an extended piece of independent work within childhood studies
3. An understanding of, and the ability to select appropriately from, social research approaches;
4. Understanding and application of principles of ethical practice

Teaching Information

Individual study supported by regular academic supervision A mixture of taught and problem-solving sessions, using both online teaching materials and synchronous sessions

Formative : An annotated bibliography prepared for the start of the academic year

Assessment Information

Summative assessment:

One 10,000 word dissertation

Reading and References

Thomas G, 2013, How to Do Your Research Project: A Guide for Students in Education and Applied Social Sciences. London: Sage.

White P, 2008, Developing Research Questions: A Guide for Social Scientists. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan