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This module provides you with guidance and support towards your completion of an individual research project – a dissertation - whose theme complements your learning on the MSc Blended and Online Education programme. Traditionally your dissertation should be a written piece of work, but here, at least one element should be presented as a digital artefact. You may submit a patchwork collection of digital artefacts, in negotiation with your supervisor and examiner, as substantive elements of your work. In either case, work must be the result of independent, critical investigation which evidences the use of relevant research methods and detailed knowledge of established literature and other sources in the chosen area of study. You will be assigned a personal supervisor who is tasked with monitoring your progress as well as offering feedback, advice and guidance. You will also have an identified internal examiner who examines the final dissertation and takes the lead at the viva. There are three deliverables prior to final submission: (1) Project Proposal (observing a formal approval process undertaken by the supervisor and student); (2) Initial Report; (3) Outline Dissertation.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to
LO1: Develop extensive knowledge of a specialist area of investigation, and develop and justify research questions appropriate to the area, issues or problems identified
LO2: Critically explore and review literature relevant to the topic chosen
LO3: Underpinned by an identified philosophical position, plan and justify an appropriate academic research methodology appropriate to an in-depth research project
LO4: Manage research and writing schedules, and gather, analyse, synthesise and interpret data with which to explore research questions
LO5: Devise an appropriate form with which to present arguments, findings and conclusions.