FA6017 - Fashion Dissertation

What will I learn on this module?

This module provides an opportunity for final-year students to develop a critical, informed position in relation to theoretical and contextual issues surrounding design practice. By writing a 4,000-word Design Report (dissertation), you will articulate your knowledge of a particular subject and demonstrate your skills in research, critical thinking and using advanced analytical techniques to present an argument in written form. These are skills that will benefit you in your professional career and/or in postgraduate study. The subject will usually be related to your design specialism. In most cases, the subject will be based on a research proposal that you will produce at Level 5. You will be supported by an assigned academic supervisor, with whom you will discuss work in progress.

How will I learn on this module?

The module is taught through a combination of introductory guidance lectures to consolidate the Design Report preparation lessons you received at Level 5, one-to-one tutorials and independent study. Online Q&A sessions will also be offered at appropriate points to answer any last-minute questions you may have. By these means, you will learn how to research effectively and how to address academic and professional concerns relating to design or visual and material culture. Each student should discuss your work in progress periodically with your assigned supervisor. A draft of one chapter should be submitted to your supervisor for formative feedback.

You will be encouraged and guided:
1. To develop appropriate methodologies enabling you to interpret, analyse and elucidate information gathered through research.
2. To select and organise appropriate material, ideas and interpretations into a coherent piece of work formally arranged as a report.
3. To demonstrate evidence of critical reflection, understanding and engagement with design in context.
4. To communicate a cogent and convincing argument.
5. To work in an ethical way and with integrity.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

This is a student-led project and it is your responsibility to complete it. Students will be supported by three guidance lectures. These will consolidate the Design Report preparation lessons you received at Level 5 and equip you to undertake your research confidently and independently. The lecture PowerPoints will be made available via Blackboard, enabling you to refer back to them. They will cover issues such as:
• What is a Design Report?
• Refining your subject and identifying critical issues
• Developing a research question
• Research methods
• How to obtain ethical approval
• Using theory and critical concepts
• Structure, writing and referencing
• What to expect from supervision
• Planning and time management
• How to request an extension

Following this general guidance, you will proceed with individual learning and specialised guidance through a series of three half-hour tutorials with your appointed supervisor. It is important to show work in progress, since the supervisor's most effective help will consist of comments on an actual written draft. Each student should submit a draft of one chapter, as well as a brief outline showing the overall structure of your Design Report. Feedback will aim to help you acquire a critical perspective on your own work and thus help you to think constructively. Sample Design Reports are available via the eLearning Portal (Blackboard) to help you understand the key requirements.

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:
• Identify, review and critically discuss design related topics in manner as evidenced through your ability to undertake a comprehensive research project
• Demonstrate your ability to appropriately deploy techniques of enquiry, analysis and synthesis to a comprehensive research project

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Intellectually engage with a range of appropriate research materials, techniques and analytical tools to enable the undertaking of a comprehensive research project

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• Engage autonomously in your studies, requiring minimal supervision to achieve outcomes.
• Demonstrate ability to communicate at a professional level through written skills.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be conducted through:

Formative assessment will be undertaken through individual tutorials. Attendance at tutorials will be monitored and it is vital that you attend all three.
Summative assessment will be by written submission of a 4,000-word Design Report (dissertation) (100%).

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time

School Design Arts and Creative Industries

Location Sri Lanka

City Sri Lanka

Start January

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

 

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

 

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

 

Contact time

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.

 

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies. 

 

Useful Links

Find out about our distinctive approach at 
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms
Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees
Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy

Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints