This module aims to guide and train students in the background knowledge and practical skills required for their research dissertation project. The primary focus will be on literature review, research question formulating, and project planning. Students will also learn to identify and select appropriate research methodologies that they can later apply to their project.
A. Analyse, synthesise, and critically evaluate scholarly work to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the state of the art on a particular research topic. B. Formulate critical research questions aimed at addressing specific gaps in the existing literature. C. Plan and schedule a research project with clear deliverables and milestones. D. Effectively participate within the legal, social, ethical and professional framework for research projects. E. Structure, write and deliver formal presentations such as research proposals, adhering to relevant codes of practice.
In this module we wish to foster independent learning, within a framework that includes a series of lectures, seminars and tutorials, as well as regular meetings or consultations between students and their project supervisor. Formal lectures: In order to convey the concepts and methods covered in this module, students will be expected to attend four hours of formal lectures for each of the first six weeks of the semester. Seminars: These are intended to allow students to familiarise themselves with current research and allow them to report their analyses of these. In addition, some seminars will be based around guest lecturers from academic or industry specialists. Tutorials: These are intended to support students to complete assignments. Private study and meetings with supervisor: In a typical week students will be expected to devote 40 hours of unsupervised time to private study to work on their project proposal. This includes time for reflection and consolidation of lecture materials, for completion of the assessment tasks, and for regular meetings with their project supervisor.