Project/Dissertation

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Apply the demographic/statistical research training acquired in the taught element of the programme by designing an appropriate research strategy and research methodology to carry out your research.
• Manage your time effectively whilst working on your independent research.
• Identify, analyse and interpret suitable data to enable the research question to be answered.
• Show evidence of clarity of argument, understanding of the chosen topic area, and presentation of technical information.
• Describe the process of carrying out independent research in written format and report your results and conclusions with reference to existing literature.
• Identify key research questions within the field of Demography on which you will carry out independent research.
• Use and develop written and oral presentation skills.
• Analyse and synthesise research findings.
• Demonstrate appropriate referencing and develop skills in other aspects of academic writing.
• Identify, summarise and critically evaluate relevant literature and write a literature review of the relevant field.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of report writing.
• Understand and apply theoretical frameworks to the chosen area of study.

The module will include:

• At least three dissertation skills workshops in Semester 2 to outline expectations for the preparation of the Dissertation and to discuss how to develop and refine research questions, skills for literature searching and other relevant topics related to designing and writing a dissertation.
• One 10-minute presentation to be given by students at the start of the dissertation period where you will present your project proposal.
• Meetings with your Dissertation Supervisor over the summer period.
• Independent study.

As part of this module, you will be offered an opportunity to discuss and agree the topic of your dissertation with the MSc Programme Co-ordinator and your allocated Dissertation Supervisor. You will receive instructions regarding a range of available/potential topics. However, we encourage you to choose a dissertation topic on your own, which could be based on a specific area of your research interest, work experience or reflecting on the modules taught in the programme.

Teaching and learning methods

The module will be taught mainly through individual supervision and independent learning, although there will be some formal lectures and oral presentations with feedback.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Other. Dissertation skills workshop slides and materials will be available on Blackboard along with suggested reading and links to other useful resources. Detailed guidance on practical aspects of producing the dissertation can be found in the MSc Handbook

Textbooks

Swetnam, Derek (1997). Writing your dissertation: how to plan, prepare and present your work successfully. Oxford.

Rudestam, Kjell Erik (2007). Surviving your dissertation: a comprehensive guide to content and process. Los Angeles.

Hart, Chris (2005). Doing your masters dissertation: realizing your potential as a social scientist. London.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External