Research

UNIT DESCRIPTION

This unit builds on the work undertaken in R500 Supervised Project (A). In R500, students developed a research proposal. In this unit, students complete the proposed research and write either a long dissertation or a shorter dissertation and a professional portfolio. As outlined in R500, it is required that (i) the research topic chosen is relevant to the student’s discipline, (ii) there is a suitable instructor to supervise it, (iii) the topic is of sufficient interest and depth to justify the research, and (iv) there is sufficient research potential (previous publications, opportunity for original empirical research, capacity to interview informed sources, etc.) to enable the research to be completed to a high standard. Consequently, proposed research may be empirical, conceptual, or legal in nature. Likewise, it may be in the form of an exegesis (where students analyse or interpret existing work on a topic) or may pursue an original research question. Dissertation Only Option In this option, students write a dissertation of 8000 words. The dissertation will be on the topic selected in R500, and it is expected that students will incorporate the feedback received during R500 assessments. Dissertation and Professional Portfolio Option In this option, students write a dissertation of 5000 words and present a professional portfolio of 3000 words (or equivalent). The dissertation will be on the topic selected in R500, and it is expected that students will incorporate the feedback received during R500 assessments. The options for the professional portfolio are quite broad, although it must be related to the dissertation and its form must be agreed to by academic staff. A student might choose to write 3000 words consisting, for example, of newspaper articles, trade magazine profiles, or professional blog entries. Alternatively, a student might write and produce a 10-15-minute video piece of investigative journalism. Students are encouraged to discuss alternative options with staff. This unit will be useful for all students, whether they are about to enter the workforce or are preparing to continue their studies further.  

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Complete a substantial dissertation in line with a previously agreed research proposal.
2. Demonstrate a connection between theory and research.
3. Develop a professional portfolio that aligns with the dissertation while contributing to the student’s chosen profession (optional)

CERTIFICATION

The optional assessment tasks associated with this unit provide an opportunity for participants to consolidate their learning and to benchmark their understanding against the standard set by Chancellor Institute. Participants enrolled in this unit who successfully complete the optional assessments will qualify for a grade, academic transcript and certificate of completion for that unit. For further details about the assessments, please click on the Curriculum tab or contact our course advisors. Additional unit fees apply for students electing to undertake assessments. Participants who elect not to complete the optional assessments for this unit will receive a certificate of participation for the unit.   Shareable on Linkedin. You can share your certificates in the Certifications section of your LinkedIn profile, on printed resumes, CVs, or other documents.