Undergraduate Modules: POL3103 - Work Based Learning Dissertation

Module Code

POL 3103

Module Title

Work Based Learning Dissertation

Level:

Level 3

Semester:

Semester 1 and 2

Credits

40 credits

Taught by:

Dr Nasos Roussias, Lecturer in Politics

Module Description:

This module involves supervised research on an agreed topic in Politics, which is based on collaboration with an external body. As with the dissertation generally, students will meet their tutor individually and undertake individual research. The module is assessed on the basis of a 12,000 word maximum dissertation. This must include a Learning Agreement that sets out your relationship with the collaborating organisation and a reflective Learning Log. These should be around 2,000 words in length and must be included in your overall word count.

Module Aims:

This module aims to provide an opportunity for supervised research in collaboration with an external body on an agreed topic in Politics. In developing their dissertations students will be expected to design, organise, and execute a research plan. This plan will be presented to their supervisor. This module requires students to take a high degree of responsibility for the learning process and will require them to manage their own learning, reflect on it critically, and seek and use constructive feedback. By the end of the dissertation module students will be able to:

Demonstrate significant knowledge of their chosen area of study
Illustrate their ability to conduct independent research relevant to their chosen topic, by selecting an appropriate approach and methodology and by utilising a broad range of primary and secondary sources.
Demonstrate critical transferable skills such as the ability to effectively deploy a considerable body of research; engage with an external body in producing research relevant to that organisation’s needs; assess the arguments of primary source materials against relevant secondary studies; critically evaluate different interpretations within the political studies community; elucidate their conclusions in a clear, logically-structured, analytical and independently-argued piece of work.

Module Schedule:

Week	Topic
4	Workshop 1
5	WBL Meeting
9	Supervision Meeting 1
13	Supervision Meeting 2
22	Supervision Meeting 3
30	Supervision Meeting 4
33	Supervision Meeting 5

Teaching Methods:

2 * dissertation workshops
5 * tailored one-to-one supervision

Assessment:

12,000 word maximum dissertation

Resources Available:

Individual feedback and guidance sessions with supervisor, in addition to scheduled supervision.
Dedicated module intranet site.
Extensive library materials, including a wide variety of electronic and digitised resources.

Indicative Reading:

Blaxter, L., Hughes, C., and Tight, M. (2006) How to Research, third edition. Buckingham: Open University Press.

King, G., Keohane, R. and Verba, S. (1994) Designing Social Inquiry. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press .

Brady, H. and Collier, D. (eds.) (2004) Rethinking Social Inquiry: Diverse Tools, Shared Standards. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.

Hay, C., (2002) Political Analysis: A Critical Introduction. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan.

Marsh, D., and Stoker, G. (eds.) (2002) Theory and Methods in Political Science, second edition. Basingstoke: MacMillan.

May, T. (2003) Social Research: Issues, Methods and Process, third edition. Buckingham: Open University Press.