The module aims to develop your ability to study at Master’s level and to develop, plan, and execute a project using the processes of research. This module is a prerequisite for undertaking the Master’s dissertation (Independent Scholarship).
Module learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- Research, review and critically evaluate current academic literature within a specific context in order to identify the key issues and gaps within the current knowledge
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of research design and methodological inquiry and to propose an appropriate research plan. Reflective evaluation of the impact of ethical values on academic research will be demonstrated
- Systematically analyze and synthesize researched data and theories where appropriate
Module content
The aim of this module is to impart the necessary skills and behaviors required for Master’s study, as well as building the essential characteristics of professionalism in your chosen discipline. It is important that you are able to participate fully in the module so that you can gain maximum benefit from it.
This module will help you identify the knowledge, skills and competencies (academic and professional) that you bring with you to the module, from previous studies or your work experience or both of these. You will have the opportunity to identify areas where your skills might need further development in order for you to achieve your personal aims during the course.
The module also provides the opportunity for you to engage with academic staff in your chosen specialist area, as well as putting the module into the context of your overall professional development now, and in the future.
There are three key areas of study as follows:
- Critical thinking. A fundamental principle of Level 7 study and your development as a professional is your ability to think and act critically. You will be exposed to a wide range of resources that will enable the development of advanced professional behaviors
- Managing a research project. As part of your Master’s study, you will be required to conduct a rigorous investigation that will result in tangible research outputs. During this module, you will gain first-hand experience of the management of inquiry-based activity to prepare you for research in academic or industrial contexts
- Evaluating research outputs. The ability to evaluate and provide a robust justification of your ideas is key to demonstrating professionalism. You will be exposed to a variety of approaches that will allow you to practice critical evaluation of inquiry focused processes and outputs
Module Information
Detailed information about this module; including its learning outcomes, etc. can be found in your Programme & Module Handbook. This is located in the My Programmes area of Blackboard, under program information.
Details of your module assessment can be found in the Assessment area of this module
Being Successful In This Module
Top tips for success:
- Become familiar with the student portal
- Visit the student orientation where there is a lot of information about study skills and an introduction to UOHOL
- Make early contact with your Associate Academic
- Engage with the module content and complete any formative activities, which will enhance your learning
- Set up your workspace, including device and (if you’re using them) headphones/headset properly – it’s important to be comfortable and at ease whilst studying
- Set dedicated time aside for study, if you’re able, wherever, whenever and however works best for you. Plan to log on very frequently and check for new messages; this will help you to keep pace with any activities and new announcements
- Be organized – there are deadlines to meet, and it’s likely that you have other commitments to be juggled alongside learning
- Avoid plagiarism: it could result in you being withdrawn from your program. Take time to familiarise yourself with Harvard referencing (and practice using it) by reviewing PLAgiarism Teaching Online – an online introduction to plagiarism which includes information on citing and referencing.
- Read and digest the program handbook: it contains essential information about your program, your modules, and your assessment.
- Start planning your assessment early, and familiarise yourself with the module outcomes, as well as the assignment brief. Feel free to send your Associate Academic a plan for formative feedback before the formative feedback deadline. Use feedback from previous modules to inform your academic style of writing (refer to the study skills section of the student portal to improve in this area).
- The University’s Academic Regulations apply to your studies with UOH. These are arranged in sections so that you can review the appropriate information as you progress through your studies. Please do ensure you review the relevant assessment section as you prepare for your assignment.
Groups and Tutor Allocation
Depending on the number of students in this module, you may be placed into tutor groups during the first two weeks. If this is the case you will be allocated your own Associate Academic who will act as your tutor. This will enhance your learning experience by providing you with a dedicated Associate Academic who will guide you through the learning activities and also access to the shared discussion boards in the community space. If it is necessary to create groups within this module full details will be posted in the Announcements area.