IR6003 - Dissertation

You will learn by attending a number of dedicated workshops related to the researching/writing of a dissertation (i.e. how to set a research question etc.). Although much of the learning on the module will come through your own research, you will discuss the progress that you making on this module with your own dedicated dissertation supervisor.

Your academic development will be facilitated through workshops where you will consider questions relating to the nature of research, research ethics, research methods and the management of an independent research project . Through a process of meetings with your supervisor you will enhance your academic development by engaging with critical comments of your written work, i.e. through feedback given on written chapters that you will submit to your supervisor.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
At the end of this module I will have learned about:
1. How to undertake a piece of complex research on my own


Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
At the end of this module I will be able to:
2. Discuss and defend my thesis where appropriate


Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
At the end of this module I will have enhanced the following skills:

3. The ability to synthesise complex information and to construct an argument based upon evidence
4. The ability to undertake research on my own including writing an extended piece of work and to engage with critical feedback

Formative assessment: submission of research question(s) and methodology section (approx. 1,000 words) for review and feedback from supervisor. Submission of two draft chapters, usually one is the literature review (approx. 2-2,500 words) and one other draft chapter (approx. 2,500 words) to supervisor for review and feedback. Presentation of final draft of the dissertation (10 minutes) to peers and supervisors for feedback (verbal and written). The presentation should provide an overview of the research question, methodology with a focus on explaining the argument developed and the contribution to the academic debate. MLO 1-4

Via a 11,000 word final dissertation MLO 1-4

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The dissertation is the culmination of your studies in International Relations and Politics, enabling you to pursue a topic of your own choice in-depth. You will work closely with your supervisor in developing this significant piece of work. The dissertation will bring together the skills you have acquired during your studies, especially your research skills, your ability to critically analyse and evaluate, and to convey complex information in an easily accessible and appropriately formatted way. Completing an independent piece of research, such as the dissertation, will prepare you for graduate level employment in this and related fields.