Description
Select, plan, conduct and write up a research based investigation for the Masters Project. The project will include the selection of appropriate research and experimental methods, the collection and analysis of data/information and the evaluation and communication of findings and require the synthesis of a solution appropriate to the project aims.
Aims
The aim of this Module is to provide the student with an opportunity to conduct an independent Masters level research project from concept through to completion.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Select and evaluate an appropriate topic for Masters level research and identify key sources in the literature.
2. Refine and scope the selected topic into a challenging but achievable project aim.
3. Apply appropriate research methods to the investigation and synthesise a solution appropriate to the project aims.
4. Construct a coherent and cogent dissertation to report the findings of the investigation.
Indicative Content
1 Project management
Follow and revise, if appropriate, the project plan in light of comments from supervisors.
2 Research Methods
Defining a research question or hypothesis. Utilising different types of research methods including case studies, experimental and comparative studies.
3 Literature Review
Gathering appropriate literature from a variety of sources, carrying out a review of the literature, evaluating the quality and relevance of the literature, development suitable references and bibliography to support the chosen topic.
4 Research Planning
Project planning, task lists, milestones, deliverables, documenting the process and keeping a project log.
5 Ethical and Legal Issues
Copy & IP rights, data protection, ethical approval requirement and process.
6 Academic Writing
Formal academic writing style, readability, objectivity, reasoned argument, referencing literature and avoiding plagiarism.
7 Investigation
Construct the necessary framework (practical or intellectual) to undertake the investigation of the topic.
8 Product development
Produce a comprehensive, well designed, high quality solution which fully meets the aims of the project.
9 Construct a draft Dissertation
Prepare outline dissertation, draft chapters and submit for feedback and advice from supervisors.
Teaching and Learning Work Loads
| Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
| Lecture | 4 |
| Tutorial/Seminar | 12 |
| Practical Activity | 0 |
| Assessment | 280 |
| Independent | 304 |
| Total | 600 |
Guidance notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2021/22 , and may be subject to change for future years.
