Dissertation (M3013)
Dissertation
Module M3013
Module details for 2022/23.
30 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Additional Learning Tasks
Students of this level 6 module will be able to demonstrate a coherent and detailed knowledge and understanding of the legal rules, concepts and principles of the subject including those at the forefront of the discipline; the ability to present legal arguments and solve problems using the concepts and techniques of the subject; the ability to analyse critically the current law based upon a reading of the primary sources of law and critical academic analysis and to comment critically upon research and scholarship in the discipline. Students will further be able to work independently, demonstrating legal research skills and to communicate their ideas effectively.
Module Outline
The Dissertation module involves students researching and writing a 8,000 word dissertation on a subject of their choice. Having chosen their research topic in consultation with a supervisor, students work under the guidance of their supervisors for the duration of the academic year. The teaching component of the module takes place during the first teaching block only and is seminar-based. The seminars are designed to equip students with the research skills required to complete their dissertations. The topics covered include: research methodology, writing up, advanced word processing, and researching online. Students submit a 2,000 word research proposal to their supervisors during the first term and receive feedback on this. They also present their research proposals to the tutor and the other students at one of the seminars towards the end of the first term. The module seeks to develop, inter alia, the skills of independent research and learning; good time management; the ability to reflect upon progress; and an appreciation of the value of constructive criticism.
Module learning outcomes
Identify a research topic, design and compose a viable research proposal for a dissertation
Work under the guidance of a supervisor, and develop the work following feedback
Undertake basic independent research using the library and electronic resources
Plan, structure and successfully write up a dissertation on a chosen subject
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Report (2000 words) | Autumn Semester Week 8 Wed 16:00 | 20.00% |
| Dissertation (8000 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Tue 16:00 | 80.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 11100000111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Hadir Elshafay
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/242446
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.