Module overview
This module will provide you with guidance and support throughout the writing of your dissertation. From discussing your initial ideas of your dissertation through the process of actually writing the document, this module will provide you with the information and support required from both the teaching staff and your allocated Dissertation Supervisor.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Identify appropriate data sources, conduct statistical analysis and synthesise your findings.
- Identify key questions in the area of official statistics and conduct independent research to address them.
- Use and develop writing skills.
- Build a literature review, identifying and critically assessing the relevant literature on the field of interest.
- Make use of appropriate referencing styles and other aspects of academic writing.
Syllabus
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
Learning and Teaching
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.
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Teaching | 10 |
Independent Study | 590 |
Total study time | 600 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Other. Dissertation skills materials will be available on Blackboard along with suggested reading and links to other useful resources.
Textbooks
Rudestam, Kjell Erik (2007). Surviving your dissertation: a comprehensive guide to content and process. Los Angeles: SAGE Publications.
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.
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Research outline
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: The outline will be marked by the supervisor. Written feedback will be given. Extra verbal feedback may also be given.
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Dissertation | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Dissertation | 100% |
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.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Dissertation | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External