Research Methods

Overview

This module is focused on developing students’ skills and understanding of concepts relating to conceiving and planning independent projects, using the development of a potential dissertation as the focus. Material covered will include practical techniques for developing projects from conception to planning, with a particular focus on academic projects, including practice-based research. Students will consider the applicability of different research methods, and issues associated with research. They will also be expected to undertake their own research, putting these concepts and skills into practice, in developing and proposing a project suitable for a Masters dissertation.

Learning Objectives

1. A capacity to understand and engage critically with a range of research methods appropriate to the Media and Broadcast Production subject.
2. An ability to devise and clearly communicate the concept for an independent research project appropriate to an MA dissertation.
3. An ability to conduct relevant contextual research for a proposed research project appropriate to an MA dissertation.
4. An ability to meet the specific requirements of a proposal and development process.
5. An understanding of the role and purpose of an MA dissertation.
6. An understanding of the relationship between goal, methodology and output in devising projects.

Skills

1. Numeracy and information and communication technology.
2. Creative thinking and problem solving.
3. Identify, analyse and solve problems by prioritising tasks, coping with complexity, setting achievable goals and taking action.
4. Work with information and handle a mass of diverse data, assess risk and draw conclusions (analysis, attention to detail, judgement).
5. Apply subject knowledge and understanding from the degree pathway.
6. Possess high level transferable key skills such as the ability to communicate (both orally and in writing), influence, negotiate and resolve conflict.
7. Have the ability and desire to learn for oneself and improve one's self-awareness and performance, to uphold the values of lifelong learning and demonstrate emotional intelligence.
8. Demonstrate confidence and motivation to start and to finish the job, adaptability / flexibility, creativity, initiative, leadership, decision-making, negotiating and the ability to cope with stress.
9. Apply and exploit information technology.

Assessment