Module Learning Outcomes (MLOs) Assessed by Coursework

Knowledge & Understanding:

MLO1: Propose a clear and logical research design, data collection and analysis strategy which is appropriate to the research context, variables and attributes of your intended data; and
MLO2: Evaluate different methodological approaches and data collection and analysis techniques. Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
MLO3: Define, refine and operationalise a researchable topic that is succinctly focused and critically justified regarding its theoretical framework and research methodology and accurately reflects the philosophy of your programme of study;
MLO4: Conduct a targeted literature search of library and web-based materials (including institutional data and advanced scholarly articles) and critically appraise and analyse your findings;
MLO5: Integrate and modify ideas, concepts and theoretical models that you have selectively extracted from academic literature;
MLO6: Critically evaluate and test the applicability of theoretical models to your researchable topic;
MLO7: Design a detailed programme of research, data collection and analysis that integrates research goals, data requirements and standardised methods of collection and analysis, and takes into consideration theoretical and methodological constraints and limitations;
MLO8: Identify carefully considered gaps in your completed research and propose appropriate and relevant possibilities for further research; and
MLO9: Write an original dissertation, which does not exceed the stipulated word limit, in an academically acceptable format, which is theoretically and methodologically linked, paying particular attention to the integration of the literature review, the focused choice of methodology explained in comparative terms, the critical evaluation of your data, and the clear and concise presentation of new results. Personal Value Attributes
MLO10: Design and execute a detailed programme of research, data collection, and analysis that takes into consideration the professional, research ethics, and governance characteristics of a Northumbria University postgraduate student.

Coursework Overview

The coursework will assess your ability to demonstrate MLOs 1, to 10. Write a research dissertation that demonstrates proficiency in each of the module learning outcomes. This dissertation can include the sections appropriate for a research project dissertation i.e. introduction, literature survey, methodology, results, discussion and conclusion.

Coursework Tasks to be Completed by Students

Write a technical document (Project Report) addressing the following elements:

Provide an evaluation and synthesis of the problem field and a definition of the problem statement. Base this on the literature from a range of sources with identifiable relevance.
Develop a structured project approach indicating the aim & objectives, methodology and designed work packages. Clearly show the links with the literature review. Define a work/experimental plan leading to outputs that is aligned with milestones and contingencies.
Present results in a wellstructured and coherent manner that is linked to and covering the designed project work programme.

Distinction (86-100%): The work assessed is exemplary and provides clear evidence of a complete grasp of the knowledge, understanding, and skills appropriate to the level of the qualification. There is also unequivocal evidence showing that all the module learning outcomes and responsibilities relevant to that level are fully satisfied. At this level, it is expected that the work will be exemplary in all the module learning outcomes. The work will demonstrate a particularly compelling evaluation, originality, and elegance of argument, interpretation or discourse.

Distinction (76-85%): The work assessed is excellent and demonstrates comprehensive knowledge, understanding, and skills appropriate to the level of the qualification. There is also excellent evidence showing that all the module learning outcomes and responsibilities relevant to that level are fully satisfied. At this level, it is expected that the work will be excellent in the majority of the module learning outcomes by demonstrating particularly compelling evaluation and elegance of argument, interpretation or discourse, and some evidence of originality.
Distinction (70-75%): The work assessed is of a high standard, and there is evidence of comprehensive knowledge, understanding, and skills appropriate to the level of the qualification. The evidence is present demonstrating that all the module learning outcomes and criteria relevant to that level are satisfied. At this level, it is expected that the standard of the work will be high in the majority of the module learning outcomes or by demonstrating particularly compelling evaluation and elegance of argument, interpretation or discourse.
Commendation (60-69%): Directly relevant to the requirements of the assessment. A substantialknowledge of the suitable material, showing a clear grasp of themes, questions, and issues therein. Comprehensive analysis, clear, and orderly presentation. Well supported, a focused argument which is clear and logically structured. Contains distinctive or independent thinking, and begins to formulate a separate position concerning theory and practice. Well written, with standard spelling and grammar, in a readable style with the acceptable format. Critical appraisal of the up-to-date and appropriate literature. Recognition of different perspectives. Good use of a wide range of sophisticated source material.
Pass (50-59%): Some attempt to address the requirements of the assessment: may drift away from this in less focused sections or passages. Adequate knowledge of a fair range of relevant material, with intermittent evidence of an appreciation of its significance. Significant analytical treatment which has a definite purpose. Coherent and logically structured, using an appropriate mode of argument and theoretical model(s). May contain some distinctive or independent thinking; may begin to formulate a separate position about theory and practice. Competently written, with only minor lapses from standard grammar, with the acceptable format. Uses a good variety of literature which includes recent texts and appropriate documentation, including a substantive amount beyond library texts. Competent use of source material.
Fail (40-49%): Some correlation with the requirements of the assessment, but there are instances of irrelevance. Basic understanding of the subject but addressing a limited range of material. Some analytical treatment, but may be prone to the descriptive, or to the narrative, which lacks clear analytical purpose. Some attempt to construct a coherent argument, but may suffer a loss of focus and consistency,

Guidance for Students on Policies for Assessment

The University has several policies for assessment. The following information, which is available to you from the link below, provides guidance on these policies, including relevant procedures and forms.

(1) Assessment Regulations and Policies

(a) Assessment Regulations for Taught Awards

(b) Group Work Assessments Policy

(d) Retention of Assessed Work Policy

(e) Word Limits Policy

(2) Assessment Feedback

(a) Anonymous Marking Policy

(3) Late Submission of Work and Extension Requests

(4) Personal Extenuating Circumstances

(5) Technical Extenuating Circumstances

(6) Student Complaints and Appeals

(7) Academic Misconduct