Module THEO30140: GRADUATE DIPLOMA DISSERTATION (40 CREDITS)

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO30140: GRADUATE DIPLOMA DISSERTATION (40 CREDITS)

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• 20/40 credit Theology Dissertations (THEO3221, THEO3232).

Aims

• To enable students to research and write on a specific topic in detail, with supervisory guidance.

Content

• Dissertation on a topic of the student's choice, approved by the Board of Studies in Theology and Religion, and falling within the scope of the department's work. With tutorial assistance, the student will prepare a formal research proposal on the topic covered by the dissertation.

Learning Outcomes

• a systematic understanding of key aspects, and a coherent and detailed knowledge of the topic;

• skills in the use of specialist resources in the field of Theology and Religion, in order to identify source material, compile bibliographies, and inform research;
• an understanding of the appropriate forms and conventions used in the discipline for the presentation of bibliographies and research proposals;
• further skills specific to the field of study chosen;

• skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form;
• the ability to undertake independent study.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Supervision is designed to assist the student in formulation of an appropriate topic and approach, and in research and writing of the dissertation. Through individual discussion and feedback on work submitted, specific issues may be explored in detail, enhancing student knowledge and writing skills.
• Through small-group discussion, tutorials on this module provide feedback on student preparation of their research proposal, and the opportunity to discuss specific issues in detail, enhancing student knowledge and writing skills, and developing an understanding of the appropriate forms and conventions for such proposals.
• Marking of the dissertation and research proposal assesses the learning outcomes outlined above.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Drafts of the work, or of parts of it, may be read by the supervisor over the year.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University