The dissertation project represents a piece of independent research carried out by the student which is written up as in two reports: a review of relevant literature and a research paper. Before undertaking the research, students are trained in research design and planning, statistical analysis and writing skills. A project supervisor is allocated to each student and students are expected to produce a research plan and budget for their proposed programme of research in conjunction with the supervisor. The programme of research may consist of a literature review, analysis of existing data sets, analysis of newly-collected field or laboratory data, or a combination of these approaches. Students are provided with training in the writing-up of the dissertation which should be submitted in mid-September. The topic of the dissertation must be directly relevant to the programme of study.
Total contact hours: 8 (with supervisor during project)
Private study hours: 592
Total study hours: 600
MSc Conservation and cognate pathways
Research Paper (100%)
Reassessment Instrument: 100% project.
J. Pechenik, J. and Lamb, B. (1994) How to Write About Biology. Harper Collins: London.
R. Robson (1994). Real World Research. Blackwell: Oxford.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. demonstrate ability to use a range of analytical tools for collecting and analysing research data in the specific field of research
2. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the protocols and styles required for presenting and discussing research results in the specific field of research
3. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the protocols and styles required for citing articles in peer-reviewed journals and other sources of published/unpublished work in the specific field of research
4. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the specific research field that relates to the dissertation project
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