Module overview
The dissertation can be by research or a professional project. A dissertation by research will use quantitative or qualitative methods for a hypothesis driven research project. A dissertation by professional project can take a variety of forms, including: a systematic review, service audit, service development, service delivery needs assessment, or service evaluation.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Create a manuscript in publication format.
- Develop critical reasoning and organisation of an argument.
- Communicate and critically appraise effectively.
- Choose, justify and compile relevant information using information technology and develop an evidence based approach to research.
- Prioritise, plan and organise your time effectively to deliver a high quality report on time.
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Substantiation and justification of the links between your own project and the application of research to solving problems in the field of diabetes.
- Selection and justification of an appropriate method to conduct the investigation/review.
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Conceptualise and structure a complex problem so that a testable hypothesis or appropriate research question can be derived.
- Critically appraise the relevant literature, illuminating the background and (theoretical) context of the study.
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Discover an appreciation of ethical considerations and processes.
- Critically evaluate your own work and discuss the implications of the findings for professional practice.
- Develop and test a hypothesis or develop and answer a research question.
Syllabus
- Protocol development
- Project planning: asking the right research question
- Research Process: designing a project
- Research governance and ethical processes
- Analysis
- Critical appreciation and interpretation
- Report writing
- Working under supervision
- Time management
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Individual research supervision both face-to-face and electronically, and students will be able to access the Faculty of Medicine’s staff and resources. A primary supervisor and a member of University staff supervise each student on a one-to-one basis. Students are given access to our BlackBoard website that provides comprehensive detail about all stages of the dissertation. Group support will be offered via group get-together sessions.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 600 |
| Total study time | 600 |
Resources & Reading list
Internet Resources
Statistics e-learning resources.
Virtual Learning Environment: Blackboard.soton.ac.uk module site.
Textbooks
Bowling, A. (2005). Handbook Of Health Research Methods: Investigation, Measurement And Analysis.. Open University Press..
Bowling, A. (2009). Research Methods in Health: Investigating Health and Health Services. Open University Press..
Assessment
Assessment strategy
The assessment for the module provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes. Assessment comprises the following:
- You will write a 1500 word project proposal, which will be approved before proceeding with your project (formative). This project proposal will be used to guide your application for ethical approval for your project (if required).
- At the half-way point for the project, you will be required to demonstrate to the Module Leader adequate progress of the project and that you are using appropriate research methodology. You are expected to confidently explain to the module leader your academic progress, the rationale and approach being used and your plans for completion. This will be in the form of a written 300 word summary. In this assessment you will rationalise your project and procedures, your progress to date and future plans (formative).
- A final written report that will be assessed (summative). The report will have a 6000 word limit, using the template provided, and be in the format of manuscript-style document. This will be accompanied by an extended academic discussion (2000 word limit). The pass mark for the module and all assessed components is 50%.
- If you have failed the module, you will have the opportunity to resubmit the work with a 1000 word rebuttal. On passing, your final mark will be capped at 50%.
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Half way report
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: Individual written feedback via online assessment system or verbally as appropriate
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Project proposal
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: Individual written feedback via online assessment system or verbally as appropriate
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written report | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written report | 100% |