Dissertation

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Identify key questions in the area of official statistics and conduct independent research to address them.
• Use and develop written skills.
• Make use of appropriate referencing styles and other aspects of academic writing.
• Identify appropriate data sources, conduct statistical analysis and synthesise your findings.
• Build a literature review, identifying and critically assessing the relevant literature on the field of interest.

The module will include:

• information made available via Blackboard and the programme handbook which outlines expectations for the preparation of the Dissertation (guidelines, aims, choice of topic, period of study, supervision, length, layout, language, referencing, bibliography, figures/tables, risk assessment form, ethics, disclaimer, binding);
• Students are required to submit an outline to their supervisor by mid/late June (or at a date agreed with the module coordinator for part-time students). The expected length for the outline is around 1000 words. It is a compulsory formative piece of work.;
• meetings with your Dissertation Supervisor to discuss progress;
• 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

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching and learning methods include dissertation supervision sessions with supervisor and independent study, although there will be some formal lectures. These supervision sessions may take place online or face-to-face depending on circumstances and feasibility. The outline will be marked by the supervisor. Written feedback will be given. Extra verbal feedback may also be given.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Other. Dissertation skills materials will be available on Blackboard along with suggested reading and links to other useful resources. Guidance on practical aspects of producing the dissertation can be found in the programme handbook

Textbooks

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

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

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

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

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External