Undergraduate Modules: Project Module

Level: 3
Credits: 20

Description

This module involves supervised research on an agreed topic arising out of work done on the linked taught module. Students will meet their tutor individually, undertake individual research and be assessed on the basis of a 7,000 word (maximum) essay. Students must include a word count of their work on the title page. The count applies to the main body of the text only. But any substantive footnotes should be included in the word count. Be aware that most word processing packages count in-text (Harvard system) citations in the word count. In instances where you are over the word limit using the Harvard system, you should exercise judgement and either cut words, or move your references to footnotes. The UG handbook gives details of each system. Students must ensure that they adhere to the word limit. If students breach the upper limit specified, they are seeking to gain an unfair advantage. Moreover, meeting the stipulated requirements is one of the skills being assessed. For these reasons, failure to remain within the word limit may be reflected in the mark awarded to the piece of work in question.

Objectives

Project modules at Level Three provide an opportunity for supervised research on an agreed topic arising out of work done on the preceding taught modules to which they are linked. In developing their projects students will be expected to design, organise, and execute a research plan, and in doing so will manage their own learning, reflect on it critically, and seek and use constructive feedback.

By the end of the project module students will be able to:

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of their chosen topic
• Apply appropriate conceptual tools and research methods
• Demonstrate a capacity for independent learning and research, through the use of a range of distinctive skills, including the evaluation of different interpretations of political events, and the gathering, organisation and deployment of evidence, data, and information from a variety of primary and secondary sources.