Dissertation: Media

This module is designed to provide learners with the support and tuition to pursue independent research and writing leading to specialist knowledge on a selected topic within their Media discipline. On completion of this module students should have an understanding of the theory, concepts, sources and methods pertaining to a selected field of Media that they have chosen for the purposes of compiling a 7,500-word long dissertation based on original research.

1. Develope an understanding of the theory, concepts, sources and methods pertaining to a selected field of media that they have chosen for the purposes of compiling a 7,500-word long dissertation.

2. Acquire a detailed knowledge and understanding in a specialised area of Media, relevant to their programme and electives. 

3. Possess the kind of knowledge required to design, execute and complete an independent written piece of Media research using both primary and secondary sources.

4. Appraise literature across the various disciplines concerned with their Media research topic.

5. Differentiate between both descriptive and analytical techniques and apply to written narratives, and comprehend many practical and organisational problems associated with conducting independent work.

6. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with their dissertation supervisor.

7. Defend research findings to a panel in a ‘VIVA’.  This will provide them with an intellectual opportunity to verbally and graphically explain the rationale behind their choice of dissertation topic, the methodologies of their investigation, their key research findings, and the validity of their conclusions and recommendations.  Oral discussion of the work will also enable the panel to evaluate the student’s overall grasp of the issues raised in the dissertation, and to gauge their understanding of any limitations over the nature and scope of the research undertaken.