Unit name | Dissertation |
---|---|
Unit code | POLI31555 |
Credit points | 40 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24) |
Unit director | Professor. Herring |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
The aim of the units is to help students produce an 8,000-10,000-word dissertation. A dissertation is an extended piece of written work that provides an opportunity to identify and investigate a particular question and explore it systematically. In order to do so students are expected to demonstrate research skills and an appreciation of the intellectual challenge of formulating a valid research design. The unit includes a robust and structured supervisory support system that will guide each student during the academic year. The teaching methods are designed to introduce students to a range of research issues including finding an interesting topic, problem definition (stating your puzzle), research design (induction and deduction), reviewing the extant literature, handling theory and evidence (qualitative and quantitative), and drafting, presenting and completing a strong dissertation. The unit also includes a one-day dissertation conference that offers students the opportunity to present their work to their colleagues and their supervisor. The dissertation conference is also an opportunity to learn about other students' work, share best practice and discuss individual experiences of dissertation research. It also provides students with an important opportunity to practice and develop transferable skills in a formal academic conference environment.
Aims:
The unit will be taught through blended learning methods, including a mix of synchronous and asynchronous teaching activities and a large synchronous conference to present student work will be conducted online in TB2.