Module: PSY7001-60 - Dissertation

Level: 7

Credit Value: 60

Module Tutor: Dr Rob Irwin

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.irwin@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module

This module provides you with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project (working in collaboration with a supervisor) that has a psychological focus, which is of particular interest to you. It not only aims to enhance your practice as a researcher, but also to develop your skills in writing for publication. As part of your dissertation report you are required to submit a 4,000-6000 word paper based on your research that is ready to be submitted for publication in a specified journal. In addition to this paper, you must also submit a research log (10,000 words) that provides a detailed contemporaneous account of the research process, evidence of reflection on your learning and development as a practitioner-researcher, as well as a full record of all meetings and interactions with your supervisor.

Typically, your dissertation project will be a systematic review or a scoping review (conducted following an a priori protocol) of a topic relevant to the area of practice in psychology that you are studying (or wish to explore as preparation for applying for doctoral-level study).

If, however, you wish to undertake a research project that involves the collection and analysis of primary data, you must have successfully completed at least one of the taught research modules in the MSc Psychology in Practice programme.

All research projects are subject to ethical approval.

2. Outline syllabus

• Independent research project
• Writing for Publication workshop

3. Teaching and learning activities

Supervision (6 hours) and workshop (4 hours).

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Dissertation report
• Description: Comprising of research log (10,000 words) [50% weighting] and paper for publication (4000-6000 words) [50% weighting]
• % Weighting: 100%