PE7001 - Research Based Study

Your learning in this module is through actively engaging with the research process. Through defining your own study objectives, identifying and critically evaluating relevant literature and designing, implementing and analysing your own research in order to develop a coherent, substantiated argument within an academic dissertationresearch based study article, you will develop a critical understanding of the process through which knowledge is created as well as contributing to new knowledge.

In this module you are empowered as partners in the learning process, taking responsibility for your own learning. The self-directed aspects of this module are supported by guidance at the module level – provided via the vle - and a system of one- to-one supervision.

Information containedLearning developed in the Dissertation PreparationResearch Methods module, PE7000KA7055, ensures that you have a clear understanding of what is required at the commencement of this module .

The supervision process provides opportunities for learning through interaction and dialogue with an individual supervisor. Formative feedback throughout the process, as well as an opportunity for interim summative feedback, facilitates your ongoing learning and reflection, informing the evolution of your research based studydissertation in practice – both in terms of subject knowledge and application of the research process.

You will be an autonomous, self-motivated learner within a supportive distance learning environment. The module tutor provides generic module guidance in various formats via the vle (for example a module handbook and frequently asked questions) as well as learning materials relating to the research process, using a variety of written, audio and video methods. Directed and independent readingwill develop your understanding of the research process which you can then apply to your individual study. The university library provides additional support in terms of research skills as well as identifying literature in relation to your chosen topic.

In terms of your specific research based study, support is provided through one- to-one supervision. You will be allocated an individual tutor as your supervisor. As self-motivated learners, you are required to negotiate an agreed communication plan with your supervisor, identifying a schedule of communication and appropriate mechanisms (for example e-mail, telephone or skype). The supervision process facilitates dialogue and opportunities for formative feedback to inform the development and completion of your research based study.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:
• MLO1: A complex, effectively focused, in-depth critical analysis of a self -selected aspect of your discipline area, grounded in both new and existing knowledge.

• MLO2: A critical evaluation of the theory and practice of research methods and the research process

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MLO3: Define a researchable problem, establishing aims and objectives that are focused and justified in terms of professional relevance, theoretical framework, and research methodology,
• MLO4: Identify and critically evaluate relevant literature (both theoretical and professional/practice sources) to effectively inform analyses.
• MLO5: Design and implement a programme of research, effectively applying your knowledge of research methods and the research process to the particular aims and objectives of your study, critically reflecting on theoretical, methodological, ethical, and other constraints and limitations.
• MLO6: Critically evaluate the subject area by analysing and synthesising research findings and literature/theory to advance knowledge and complexity of understanding, identifying evidence based conclusions (and recommendations, where appropriate).
• MLO7: A professionally presented research based study article in an academically acceptable format; well written, effectively structured, appropriately referenced, with a coherent, substantiated argument.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MLO8: Demonstrate the capacity for independent working, critical reflection and autonomous decision making, initiative and creativity in problem solving, and effective project management

Formative assessment: Engaging with materials in the VLE will provide formative feedback in terms of general understanding of the research process. In relation to the development of your specific study, the supervision process facilitates ongoing dialogue with opportunities for formative feedback.

Summative assessment: There is one component..



1. Research based study article
The research based study tests all the module learning outcomes. This substantive piece of coursework presents your in-depth, research based, study of your chosen subject. You will be required to demonstrate your understanding and application of the research process as well as the advanced knowledge developed as a result of critical integrated analyses.

Coursework will be submitted, assessed, and feedback provided to you, online

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You will design and implement a substantive research based investigation in order to address a self-selected, authentic work based or professional/practice related problem within your discipline area. This student-led, independent study allows you to synthesize and apply previous learning and experience, and develop your understanding of the research process. Through actively engaging with the research process you will explore ways in which knowledge is created and contribute to new knowledge. This challenging and rewarding enquiry based module is supported through module information and learning materials about the research process on the vle, and, through one to one supervision providing you with the opportunity for personal dialogue and guidance in developing your research skills and critical thinking. You will produce a scholarly research based study article, with the potential to contribute to your discipline’s community of practice, as well as demonstrating employability and professional development skills such as creativity and project management.