Module: PB7005-60 Extended Project or Dissertation

Level: 7

Credit Value: 60

Module Tutor: Holly Tonks

Module Tutor Contact Details: h.tonks@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module

This module is the culmination of students’ exploration, experimentation and research on the MA. It provides them with an opportunity for intensive and detailed research-based exploration of a chosen project or more traditional dissertation under the guidance of a supervisor with expertise in the field.

The aims of the 60-credit project are:

• To enable students to produce a high quality, substantial MA publishing project of 15,000 words or equivalent based on original research and creative problem-solving informed by industry practice.
• To equip students to work independently to an advanced level, on all stages of a extended, self-defined publishing project from conception to delivery
• To develop students’ ability to work at the forefront of publishing knowledge and creativity by examining existing (or perhaps historical) content solutions both within and without the industry, to critically assess work in progress, test and revise as necessary in order to achieve the most successful outcome.
• To assess students’ skills in project management and in communicating their original research according to industry professional standards

2.Outline syllabus

Students will develop, in consultation with their assigned supervisors, a research question based upon a coherent project idea. They will devise a plan of research and a project schedule, incorporating regular supervisory meetings, in order to produce — to an established time and date — a piece of original publishing practice-based research that meets the academic conventions and critical analytical requirements of an extended project for a Master of Arts.

This is primarily a module of guided independent study; however, in addition to one-to-one tutorials with the supervisor, students will also undertake the following three group workshop sessions:

• Introducing the project: choosing a topic, defining a question, and writing the research proposal
• Managing your research
• Testing your ideas

Students may submit the project in any appropriate form.

3.Teaching and learning activities

Learning will be through initial workshops, tutor-supported project work, progress reviews and feedback, and technical support.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Extended Project or Dissertation (15,000 words or equivalent)
• % Weighting: 100%