The module aims to enable students to conceive and execute a major research project in the field of cultural studies. Students attend a Summer term group meeting with the module convenor to explore and discuss ideas for research and the submission of a draft title and plan, which is to be completed during the long vacation prior to the module beginning. In the Autumn term they will receive feedback on this plan and proposal from their supervisor and/or the module convenor. They will then be required to attend a series of meetings with their assigned supervisor throughout the Autumn term and at the end of that term submit a Literature Review for assessment. In the spring term, research and writing of the dissertation continue under the guidance of the supervisor and at the end of the term, the completed assignment is submitted.
Total contact hours: 10
Private study hours: 290
Total study hours: 300
BA Cultural Studies and Media and associated programmes
Main assessment methods
Coursework – literature review (3000 words) - 20%
Project (12,000 words) (80%)
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
Bell J. (2005) Doing your Research Project, Buckingham, Open University Press
Coombes H., (2001) Research Using IT, Basingstoke, Palgrave
Cottrell (2013) The Study Skills Handbook, Palgrave MacMillan
Crème & Lee (2003) Writing at University, Buckingham, Open University
Denscombe M. (2007) The Good Research Guide, New York, McGraw-Hill
Hart (2006), Doing a Literature Review, London, Sage
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Identify a cultural studies object of inquiry and research question.
8.2 Identify appropriate means of investigating a selected research question.
8.3 Critically evaluate scholarship and ideas pertaining to a research question.
8.4 Understand and put into practice links between theory and research.
8.5 Systematically write up the selection and investigation of, findings, and implications of a specified research question.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Demonstrate bibliographic and computer search skills.
9.2 Demonstrate skill in critical thinking, analysis and synthesis, including ability to evaluate statements in relation to evidence, reasoning and
implicit values.
9.3 Articulate the connections between technical, normative, moral and political questions.
9.4 Assess critically, scholarly theory, hypotheses, theses and arguments and their implications.
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