Module: ECS6003-20 Early Childhood Dissertation Part 2

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Sharon Colilles

Module Tutor Contact Details: s.colilles@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module:

Dissertation Part 2 builds on the foundations of Part 1(ECS6002) for you to carry out research in the field of early childhood studies. In this module  you will conduct the research design developed in ECS6002 on a topic of your choice. How you carry out your study will depend on the type of research you choose to do. It is often a theoretically informed, small-scale empirical enquiry but a range of other kinds of research and enquiry are also possible, within the context of early childhood. You are expected to work independently and, where appropriate, collect and analyse data and report on findings thoroughly. You will produce a 5,000 word assignment which you may like to combine with your ECS6002 assignments to create a 9,500 word dissertation.

In order to support your research, you will continue to work with a dissertation supervisor who will be able to assist you in the successful conduct of your research project and advise you on the approaches you can take. There will also be an opportunity to engage in lectures and seminars, and a number of support materials specific to your award will be available. These will include blended learning sessions and key readings on Minerva.

2.Outline syllabus:

Content:

• Components of a central argument and how to build one

• Methods of Research analysis

• Making a case and drawing conclusions

• Research ethics

Skills:

• Academic writing

• Higher order skills such as critical thinking, analysis, synthesis

• Research skills

3.Teaching and learning activities:

● Lectures

● Seminars

● Tutorials

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay, 5,000 words

• % Weighting: 100