HST399: Dissertation (long)
40 credits (semesters 1 and 2)
Dissertations Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Moses
| Pre-requisites |
The dissertation is normally linked to a History module studied at Level 3. It is more unusual to choose a free-standing topic, though this may be possible, where supervision can be arranged within the department.
| Module Summary |
The dissertation is normally linked to the special subject. It is more unusual to choose a free-standing topic, unconnected to modules being taken at level 3, but this may be possible, where supervision can be arranged within the department. The dissertation builds on study and presentational skills developed through the course assignment at level 2.
This module develops a student's skills in research, usually, though not exclusively, involving critical analysis of primary source materials, alongside advanced engagement with secondary literature. It requires students to demonstrate their ability in constructing a scholarly argument and sustaining discussion at greater length and at a more detailed level than in other points in the module.
| Monitoring |
Students are asked to submit:
- A dissertation registration form, by Friday 21st October 2011.
- A dissertation synopsis of 100 to 150 words (including footnotes, but excluding the bibliography), by Wednesday 16th November 2011 (12 noon).
- The dissertation is due by Wednesday 21st March 2012 (12 noon).
Forms are available on the Undergraduate Information table, here (right hand side) and on MOLE in the HST399 folder.
| Intended Learning Outcomes |
Students who complete this module will have acquired the ability to:
- Utilise a variety of bibliographical tools to locate a range of primary and secondary sources on which to base a research project of their own choosing.
- Focus and structure a project, in discussion with a personal supervisor working in that subject area.
- Produce a substantial written text, following scholarly conventions of referencing and bibliography.
- Analyse source materials, and develop coherent and original arguments on the basis of their research.
- Integrate their research findings with a knowledge of historiographical debates on the topic.
- Organise a significant body of material in the course of their research.
- Work independently, in following a project through to completion, planning a programme of research and writing, and organising time effectively.
- Present a confident and coherent argument in clear written prose.