What will I learn on this module?
‘Media Dissertation’ involves the researching and writing of an 8,000-10,000 word media-related dissertation on a subject of your own choosing. You should attend a series of mandatory lecture/workshop sessions in which the fundamental requirements of preparing and researching a dissertation will be examined and explained. These sessions will be spread across semester 1 and semester 2. In Semester 1, you will develop your initial dissertation proposal up to the point where you are ready to start writing the dissertation itself. You will develop your information-retrieval skills, familiarise yourself with your chosen subject, find solutions to any problems arising out of your research design, consider the significance of any ethical constraints, formulate your principal research question, and determine the methodology you will use. You are required to complete a 2000 word dissertation plan as part of your progress (however, the module grade will be entirely assessed against your final 8000-10000 word dissertation). In Semester 2 you will develop and amend the ideas in your dissertation plan, carry out further research, prepare and write the final dissertation. Supervision will continue to be provided through regular meetings with your supervisor.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through directed independent study. You will have six lectures which will explain the general approach to dissertation writing, structuring the dissertation, formulating research questions, organising your time, overcoming potential problems, as well as specific information regarding matters such as formatting and writing style. You will be assigned a dissertation supervisor, and they will be your main point of contact during the module. Your supervisor will offer advice on your project specifically, helping you to structure your work, to overcome problems with finding appropriate sources, focusing your research questions and so forth.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
The module leader will be available in office hours to answer general concerns relating to the module, and there will also be opportunities to ask broader questions during the lecture sessions. The main source of academic support will be your individual supervisor, who is available both during formally arranged meetings and in their office hours. The delivery of the module will be supported with learning and lecture materials that are accessible via the e-learning portal.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
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.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• You will be expected to demonstrate significant knowledge of the issues and themes that contextualise your chosen research topic (LO1)
• You will be expected to demonstrate significant understanding of scholarly debates related to your chosen research topic (LO2)
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
/ Professional skills & abilities:
• You will be expected to demonstrate enhanced ability to deploy research methods, theories, and concepts relevant to the field of study (LO3)
• You will be expected to demonstrate the analytical and interpretive skills required to present a substantial piece of research (LO4)
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• It is expected that your dissertation project will demonstrate your personal and critical engagement with a topic that has industrial, social, and/or political pertinence. (LO5)
How will I be assessed?
You will receive formative feedback on your progress during meetings with your dissertation supervisor. You will also submit a 2000 word (ungraded) dissertation plan in semester one, and this will allow your dissertation supervisor to identify strengths and potential weaknesses in your project before you begin drafting chapters.
The module is summatively assessed via the submission of a dissertation which will be between 8000 words (minimum) and 10,000 words (maximum). A successful dissertation will demonstrate your ability to: a) carry out thorough research on a specialist topic; b) select, organise and present information effectively; c) understand and elucidate relevant theoretical issues; d) structure an argument leading to a conclusion; e) show evidence of personal reflection on and involvement with, the topic studied; f) work independently and to be self-motivated. (LO1-5)
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
‘Media Dissertation’ allows you to conduct an in-depth analysis of a subject area of your choice within the context of the media. You will research the topic and write an 8,000-10,000-word dissertation, supported by a member of staff who will act as your supervisor for the duration of the module. You will develop an initial proposal as well as information-retrieval skills before considering which methodology you are to use. You will also complete a 2,000-word dissertation plan which will demonstrate your progress. Your supervisor will give assessment on the plan and at regular meetings to chart your development through the module. ‘Media Dissertation’ will give you valuable transferrable skills across a range of career paths and be very valuable to those planning to continue in Higher Education.
Course info
Credits 40
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 16 months
Location Singapore
City Singapore
Start September, November or May
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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