Module overview
The dissertation is a personal research project of 15,000 words, which is completed with guidance from a personal supervisor. It takes place over the summer period and should involve original research and high-quality formal written presentation of material. The 15,000 limit allows enough space for both analysis and discussion, as well providing the required detailed account of methods used. As part of this module you will give an oral presentation as opportunity to receive feedback from staff and fellow students.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- define and manage research projects
- demonstrate effective research skills.
- access recent research findings on the development of archaeology as an academic discipline
- competently communicate ideas in oral presentations.
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Relevant theoretical approaches applicable to your chosen field of study;
- Scholarly debates relating to your chosen field of study.
- Relevant analytical methods appropriate for your chosen field of study;
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Analyse/ synthesize primary and secondary sources;
- Demonstrate originality of thought and approach which moves beyond a simple synthesis of secondary materials.
- Evaluate and critically assess previous work on your chosen subject;
Syllabus
The dissertation is a considerable piece of self-directed research. It aims to give you the opportunity to undertake an extended piece of independent research, with guidance from a supervisor. It will require reflection on a theoretical framework and critical analysis relating to your chosen topic. It will enable you to make an original contribution to the literature on Archaeology and prepare you for progressing to more advanced study and to preparation of work autonomously beyond academia. It offers an opportunity considerably to enhance your archaeological skills, and in particular those based within your chosen programme
During the two semesters preceding your dissertation, you will:
- Identify and develop the research skills that you need to undertake your dissertation project.
- Be encouraged to engage with the research community through attending and presenting at a range of relevant seminars, workshops or conferences, and through digital channels such as blogs.
- Prepare a Project Design.
During the summer you will primarily be working independently to execute and write-up your research project. You will have periodic meetings with a supervisor to monitor your progress and discuss any problems that arise. You may also provide updates via digital channels. Towards the end of the summer vacation you will submit draft chapters and sections for feedback at these supervision meetings.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include
- tutorial support from a dedicated dissertation supervisor, and from the Dissertation Co-ordinator, and other related staff
Learning activities include:
3/8/2016 Archaeology Masters Dissertation
- individual research
- communication of research
- attendance at research events such as seminars
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Completion of assessment task | 588 |
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Total study time | 600 |
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Research design
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: written feedback
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Dissertation | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Dissertation | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: External