Research Proposal Development: Aims, Objectives, and Methodology

The learning outcomes that are assessed by this coursework are:

1. A systematic understanding of research methodology and practice.

2. The ability to interpret and critically appraise the research of others.

3. The ability to develop a research proposal with a clear aim, set of objectives and methodology

4. The ability to plan a meaningful and original research project.

When completed you are required to submit your coursework to:

All completed coursework must be sent to the module leader electronically using the Blackboard VLE ‘send assignment’ facility. To access this, see the ‘send assignment’ button to the left of the screen when viewing this module.

Work submitted by other means will not be accepted.

Late submission of coursework policy: Late submissions will be processed in accordance with current University regulations which state:

“The time period during which a student may submit a piece of work late without authorisation and have the work capped at 50% if passed is 14 calendar days. Work submitted unauthorised more than 14 calendar days after the original submission date will receive a mark of 0%. These regulations apply to a student’s first attempt at coursework.

Work submitted late without authorisation whichconstitutes reassessment of a previously failed piece of coursework will always receive a mark of 0%.”

Academic Offences and Bad Academic Practices:

These include plagiarism, cheating, collusion, copying work and reuse of your own work, poor referencing or the passing off of somebody else's ideas as your own. If you are in any doubt about what constitutes an academic offence or bad academic practice you must check with your tutor.

This assignment is intended to support the development of a clear research thesis proposal through:

· An introduction to the research topic and problem context

· The presentation of a clear aim and set of objectives

· A concise literature survey highlighting the key themes for your proposed project in a critical manner

· A detailed explanation, with justification, of your chosen methodology for your planned research study

· A summary of any ethical issues that you anticipate and how these will be addressed.

· Consideration of any risks involved with the chosen methodology, and how these will be managed.

· A detailed work plan for the proposed study including Milestones and related tasks.

The marking scheme for the assignment is the following: Marking weight Relevant introduction and context to chosen research topic 10%

Clear research aim and relevant research objectives presented 20%

Concise literature review clearly presenting research area and identifying research gap for proposed research 20%

Detailed methodology for proposed research activity, including relevant ethical consideration and risks involved with chosen methods 30%

Detailed work plan for research 10% Style, structure and use of appropriate referencing style

Excellent work which demonstrates that the “Distinction Level” student:

• Possesses an authoritative grasp of the conceptual context within which the work was undertaken

• Is able to display originality, insight and powers of indepth critical analysis in the solution offered and/or is able to sustain an argument displaying originality, insight into current debates and conceptual positions, in- depth critical analysis, and is capable of expressing this argument clearly, concisely and accurately

• Possesses a high degree of relevant technical competence

A clear grasp of an appropriate methodology suitably “Merit Level” focused on the topic/problem. A good level of understanding, organisation and relevant technical ability. An ability to synthesise material and to construct responses which reveal good skills of critical analysis and insight.