ENG30970 Dissertation Research Methods

Academic Year 2020/2021

This module is intended to provide the necessary training in methods and resources for the completion of a dissertation. It is the first of two core modules in dissertation writing for Single Subject Major English students (and is available only to SSME students.) It will feature writing and research methods workshops and lectures, and will focus in particular on the drafting of viable research proposals for dissertation projects, on the evaluation of appropriate sources through the production of an annotated bibliography, on the necessary components of a dissertation from abstract through to appendices, of learning how to pace the research process and take accurate notes through the production of a research journal, and how to implement correct scholarly practice. Theoretical and archival methodologies will also be discussed and evaluated.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

-To learn how to produce a focused, viable, original research proposal-To develop skills in evaluating sources-To discover how to choose appropriate theoretical methodologies-To improve referencing, organization and appropriate scholarly presentation skills-To begin treating research as a process rather than a final product-To utilize libraries and resources more effectively-To become ready to write a substantial undergraduate dissertation-To learn how to work effectively with supervisors

Indicative Module Content:


Preparation for the writing of an undergraduate dissertation.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Seminar (or Webinar)

17
Specified Learning Activities

36
Autonomous Student Learning

47
Total

100
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Participative seminars, peer-review, independent learning, research journal. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Pre-requisite:
ENG20230 - Reading Old English I, ENG20520 - Renaissance Prose Fiction, ENG20650 - Spenser in Ireland

Additional Information:
Pre-requisite: one of the modules listed.


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Continuous Assessment: Annotated Bibliography Unspecified n/a Graded No

35
Portfolio: Final Research Proposal Unspecified n/a Graded No

50
Continuous Assessment: Learning Journal Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

15

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback will be offered on individual components on an ongoing basis

Name Role
Dr Catríona Clutterbuck Lecturer / Co-Lecturer