Unit information: Dissertation in 2016/17

Unit name	Dissertation
Unit code	VETS33003
Credit points	40
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52)
Unit director	Professor. Knowles
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Bristol Veterinary School
Faculty	Faculty of Health Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

This unit will allow the student to pursue a research topic in an area of animal behaviour or welfare and to produce a written report.

Aims:

This unit will allow the student to pursue in detail a piece of original research.

Intended Learning Outcomes

• A reported piece of original research;
• Knowledge and understanding of a specific area of animal welfare and behaviour, including understanding of the scientific literature pertaining to the project and an ability to evaluate this literature critically;
• Knowledge and understanding of design, execution and analysis of research projects;
• The ability to reason; analyse and interpret data; identify and solve problems; exercise independence of mind; form and defend scientific judgements;
• Transferable skills including the ability to communicate in writing and orally; be self-reliant and organise time effectively; take appropriate decisions when needed; an appropriate level of numeracy and IT skill; plan, execute and interpret the results of experimental work; and manage a research project.

Teaching Information

Supervised, independent research

Assessment Information

Formative Assessment:

1. Informal feedback from supervisor, other members of staff, and postgraduate students studying similar topics (as appropriate to project topic)
2. Introductory Talk
3. Project Review Essay
4. Dissertation
5. Final Project Talk

Formal Assessment:

1. Project Review Essay 10%
2. Dissertation 80% (a component of this may be related to your practical #performance – you will be advised during the year)
3. Final Project Talk 10%

Reading and References

Reviews and primary articles from the current scientific literature relevant to the project.