Module SOCI45160: Dissertation

Department: Sociology

SOCI45160: Dissertation

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• The purpose of the dissertation is to give students the opportunity to work on a suitable subject of their own choice and to utilise the techniques developed in the research modules. An MA dissertation is designed to assess a student’s ability to define a researchable thesis in the light of past and current academic research. Students need to demonstrate a capacity for independent thought and to use their critical and analytical abilities, including the use of appropriate research methods, in the interpretation of a substantial quantity of relevant material (empirical and theoretical). Further, they need to be able to write up the results of any research carried out in an extended and coherent form, paying close attention to matters of structure in addition to normal expectations regarding referencing and bibliographic information.

Content

• A supervised research project

Learning Outcomes

• Have demonstrated a systematic knowledge of existing scholarship in their chosen field of study.

• Have demonstrated a systematic knowledge of alternative ways of approaching research questions in sociology, criminology, social policy, and /or social research methods;
• Have demonstrated handling research methods and tools, analysing data and communicating results, and/or a sophisticated grasp of the theoretical and policy issues related to the chosen topic;
• Where empirical work is involved have demonstrated an awareness of ethical issues in social research, and of the importance of reflexivity about their own role as researcher.

• Have demonstrated self-direction and originality in tackling and solving research questions;
• Have worked autonomously (under the direction of their supervisor) in planning, executing, analysing and writing-up a piece of research;
• Have demonstrated independent learning ability, the exercise of initiative and skills in written communication.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Students will receive one-to-one supervision with a member of academic staff.
• Students will also have the opportunity to take part in five dissertation workshops and master classes.
• The Summative Assessment will be by one dissertation
• The Formative assessment includes individual feedback on one presentation and one draft chapter. Further formative support will be given through verbal feedback during workshops and one-to-one supervision.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Presentation and one draft chapter.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University