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Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title DISSERTATION
Code SOCI403
Coordinator Dr WS Shankley
Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology
William.Shankley@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2025-26 Level 7 FHEQ Whole Session 60

Aims

To apply and develop methodological and theoretical skills
To generate a research question or problem
To design research and choose appropriate methods
To collect and analyse data
To write a final research report/dissertation


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) The integrate a combination of empirical and/or theoretical skills in the production of a unique ‘study’

(LO2) To investigate a problem in an independent manner

(LO3) To manage the production of a sustained piece of sociological research

(LO4) Demonstrate an ability to gather information from appropriate sources and /or conductoriginal empirical research

(LO5) The ability to evaluate, describe and apply knowledge to their chosen topic

(S1) Improving own learning/performance - Reflective practice

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Listening skills

(S4) Critical thinking and problem solving - Creative thinking

(S5) Critical thinking and problem solving - Problem identification

(S6) Time and project management - Project planning

(S7) Critical thinking and problem solving - Synthesis

(S8) Critical thinking and problem solving - Evaluation


Syllabus

 

Students will meet with their supervisors on a regular basis.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Supervision
Description: Up to 12 one to one sessions with the supervisor
Attendance Recorded: No
Unscheduled Directed Student Hours (time spent away from the timetabled sessions but directed by the teaching staff): Each student is assigned a supervisor who provides general guidance on the progress of the student dissertation. This includes advising on the selection of the topic and its parameters, the structure of the dissertation and commenting on draft work.

Teaching Method 2 – Workshops

Description: Four timetabled sessions, led by the PGT Lead and staff within the School of Law and Social Justice (SLSJ), will be delivered at the PGT level. These sessions will provide students with a comprehensive overview of key aspects of the dissertation process, including structure, expectations, ethics applications, and academic skills.

This initiative is coordinated in partnership with the PGT Lead in Law to create a cohesive and integrated dissertation module across the SLSJ, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration among students. The workshops will complement one-to-one supervisions, offering additional guidance and support to help students streamline their dissertation journey and achieve their academic goals.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours           12

4

16
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 584
TOTAL HOURS 600

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Assessment 1 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1,2 and 3    100       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.