Module: BIO6000-20 Dissertation Planning

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Matt Baker

Module Tutor Contact Details: m.baker@bathspa.ac.uk

Please note that in order to take this module you must have studied BIO5008-20 Biology Research Skills. 

1. Brief description and aims of module:

The aim of the dissertation is to enable you to advance your knowledge of the discipline you have studied by pursuing an independent research project, this is achieved in two interconnected modules: Dissertation Planning (Semester 1) and Dissertation Publication (Semester 2).

The Dissertation is the hallmark of an undergraduate science education giving you the opportunity to demonstrate how the knowledge and skills you have gained can be applied to generate new insights or perspectives on academic and/or real-world issues.

This module provides you with the opportunity to select an appropriate topic and write a critical literature review on an individual topic of relevance to your degree under the supervision of a member of the teaching staff. The critical review will provide the basis for identifying, defining and articulating a relevant topic for investigation in your research topic. You will devise a goal and plan an appropriate study to achieve it; establish a research aim and research objectives, and select and justify appropriate research methodologies, including assessment of risk and ethical implications.

The research topic can be an academic study or a more applied project working with organisations on projects agreed within the Subject area. The potential range of methodologies and approaches is wide, extending across the full breadth of staff interests and expertise. The module provides first-hand experience of planning a research project. It also offers you the opportunity to continue to formatively evaluate your skills and development.

On completion of all elements of the dissertation, you will have examined a subject in substantial depth, shown evidence of an ability to undertake sustained critical analysis, developed and improved your research skills, and produced pieces of written work that demonstrate an understanding of an area relevant to your degree.

The Dissertation modules ensure that you can demonstrate autonomous, independent learning and effective organisational skills through a sustained process of engagement.

2. Outline syllabus

You will work on your research proposal under the supervision of an appropriate member of staff who will support you to identify, design and execute the proposed project that delivers agreed, significant and manageable objectives. Supervision occurs according to general Subject guidelines on timings and activities, but you will negotiate the timetable with your supervisor. There will be several group sessions to address matters that are common to all. These include a general introduction to the module, library and data analysis refreshers, and attending presentations given by your peers.

You will receive individual guidance, support and advice on your research proposal during supervisory meetings and may also receive other support for your learning via email or discussion board depending on the nature of your research proposal. High standards of scholarship are required of all types of dissertations, and your learning will be both topic- and practice-related (e.g. methodology and ethics) as appropriate to your chosen topic.

Your initial submission will be in the form of a proposal, in order to ensure you have a feasible project, and you will also complete a critical literature review on a broader topic relevant to your proposed research.    

3. Teaching and learning activities

Through appropriate guidance and through reflection, you will produce a critical literature review based on independent scholarship, critical review and subject understanding    

With guidance from your Supervisor, you will complete a project approval, detailing your planned project and how it takes account of risk and ethical considerations.   

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Critical Literature Review (3500 words) 

• % Weighting: 70%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Project Approval (1500 words)     

• % Weighting: 30%