To facilitate students to construct an extended and original research project on an appropriate topic which is clear and realistic in scope and seeks to make a distinct contribution both to your own learning and to debates within your chosen field.

To facilitate students to develop independent research skills.

To facilitate students to develop professional standards for the presentation of research material.

(LO1) Students will demonstrate a deep knowledge and understanding of their chosen topic and a critical awareness of the relationship of their own research to other work in the field.

(LO2) Students will identify and apply research methods which are appropriate for their project.

(LO3) Students will apply core theoretical and conceptual approaches in the study of communication and media in order to construct a coherent and sustained argument as appropriate to the research project and method of enquiry.

(LO4) Students will present research information and argument in an appropriate form and to a professional standard, applying recognised academic methods of referencing to bibliographic material.

(S1) Proficient use of electronic resources and tools for research as required by the chosen research project.

(S2) Time management, organisation of work, proficient use of English, referencing.

(S3) Understanding and application of appropriate terminology and analytical criteria.

(S4) Identifying and accessing relevant sources of information and materials.

Preparation of 10,000 - 12,000-word dissertation, aided by supervisory tutorials and a lecture on dissertation structure and design.

Teaching takes the form of four face-to-face lectures, as well as supervisory meetings.

Teaching Method 1 - Lectures
Description: Preliminary lectures, in October, will cover the design and structure of a dissertation, introduce dissertation supervisors and how to work with them, and also give guidance on time and project management. A further lecture at the beginning of semester 2 will cover tips for writing up.

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorials
Description: Meetings with dissertation supervisor (approx. 6 hours across the year)
Attendance Recorded: No
Notes: This is the approximate number of supervision hours that will be available to you during the preparation of your dissertation.