Archaeology Dissertation for Integrated Masters

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Having successfully completed the module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the topic you have selected in your chosen field of study, engaging with critical debates through an extended piece of work.

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Completion of this dissertation module will familiarise you with relevant theoretical approaches and analytical methods appropriate for your topic. You will encounter and engage with scholarly and policy debates relating to your chosen area of research. You will analyse and synthesise primary and secondary sources; evaluate and critically assess previous work on your chosen subject; and make connections between different critical methodologies. You may use interdisciplinary modes of
approaching your chosen subject.

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• By means of this module, you will learn to communicate the results of specific research projects, demonstrating originality of thought and approach that moves beyond a simple synthesis of
secondary materials. You will be guided in the production of a professional-standard research output, with appropriate presentation of both arguments and data, as well as the management of any supporting materials (e.g. data files).

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 work autonomously beyond academia. It offers an opportunity considerably to enhance your archaeological skills.
In the initial stages of your dissertation, you will identify and develop the research skills that you need to undertake your dissertation project. You will be encouraged to engage with the research community through attending a range of relevant seminars, and through digital channels such as blogs. 


Teaching methods include tutorial support from a dedicated dissertation supervisor, and from the Dissertation Co-ordinator, and other related staff.

Learning activities include individual research activities, communication of your research aims and progress through supervisions, and (non-compulsory) attendance at research events such as seminars, which will familiarise you with diverse approaches to archaeological research topics.


Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Individual Presentation

• Assessment Type: Formative
• Feedback: Discussion with audience; verbal and/or written feedback from supervisor.
• Final Assessment: No
• Group Work: No

Individual project

• Assessment Type: Formative
• Feedback: Discussion with audience; verbal and/or written feedback from supervisor.
• Final Assessment: No
• Group Work: No

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.