Module: BIO6600-20 Microbiology Dissertation Planning

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Matt Baker

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

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Microbiology Dissertation Planning is the first part of the dissertation module delivered in two parts: Microbiology Dissertation Planning (Semester 1) and Microbiology Dissertation Publication (Semester 2). The Dissertation is the hallmark of an undergraduate scientific 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 a topic related to microbiology and present a proposal to undertake individual study of relevance to your degree award under the supervision of a member of the teaching staff. The proposal will need to Identify, define and articulate a relevant topic for investigation; devise a goal and plan for an appropriate study to achieve it; establish a research aim and research objectives based on a critical review and assessment of the literature relevant to the research to be undertaken and select and justify appropriate research methodologies.

The topic can be an academic study or a more applied project working with organisations on projects agreed with 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 as personal development planning is integrated into the module.

The aim of the Microbiology Dissertation (Microbiology Dissertation Planning and Microbiology Dissertation Publication) is to enable you to advance your knowledge of the discipline you have studied by pursuing an independent research project.

On completion of both Microbiology Dissertation modules you will have examined a topic of microbiology relevance 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 demonstrates understanding of an area relevant to your degree.

The Microbiology 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 in person during supervisory meetings and may also receive other support for your learning via email, discussion board or telephone, 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. You will also present your proposal to staff and students.  At key stages of designing your project through the proposal   you will reflect on your progress and development, and on the quality of your work.

3. Teaching and learning activities

The overall teaching and learning strategy is that through appropriate guidance and through reflection, you will produce a research proposal based on independent scholarship, critical review and understanding, and reliable methodology. Application of your work to employability will be reviewed through a presentation of your proposal, reflecting on the process and incorporation into your CV.

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%