This module provides students with an understanding of academic research and an ability to identify and utilise appropriate strategies and techniques for the purpose of individual investigation, research and practice within a subject specific area of their course route. This module will prepare students to undertake the dissertation module in Stage 2 of their course.
40 hours to include workshops, directed independent learning, and the preparation of a research proposal under supervision from an academic within the subject area of their degree route.
Non-contributory on all Politics postgraduate taught courses
Compulsory non-contributory on the following courses:
• MA Security and Terrorism
• MA International Conflict Analysis
• MA International Relations
• MA International Relations and International Law
Optional to the following courses:
• None
Participation and engagement – no formal assessment.
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Have a good understanding of the issues involved in formulating a meaningful and feasible research question, as well as of the ways of dealing with these issues
2 Understand how to work methodically and systematically in their studies, and to adopt a critical perspective in their use of work done by other political and social scientists
3 Be able to apply their knowledge and skills to a research project that they have developed on their own
4 Be able to conduct an advanced academic research project, present the findings, and write-up in a concise and coherent manner
5 Have a good familiarity with learning resources in politics and international relations, including primary and secondary sources, and different forms of data and other empirical materials
6 Critically engage with political phenomena, including the vocabulary, concepts, theories and methods of political debate
7 Examine and evaluate different interpretations of political issues and events and solutions to political problems
8 Describe, evaluate and apply different intellectual approaches in collecting, analysing and presenting political information.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
