Research Portfolio

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 5
• Convenor: Dr Zoe Opacic
• Assessment: a 1500-word portfolio of written work, a bibliography, 1500-word review of two pieces of literature, 1500-word piece of writing on a contextual issue, 500-word research question and plan for a dissertation

In this module we aim to bridge the gap between the shorter coursework essays of individual subject modules and the longer dissertation that you are expected to complete by the end of your final year.

At the beginning of the module, you will choose your own research topic, which could become the subject of your dissertation. You then take part in a series of seminars which will give you the research and bibliographic skills you need to investigate your chosen topic and produce a portfolio of work that is designed to launch your dissertation research.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• show knowledge of your chosen topic
• compile a bibliography independently
• build on visual analysis skills developed in other courses by applying them to your research topic
• show familiarity with current scholarly debates relevant to your chosen topic
• analyse and interpret evidence
• read critically and analyse the secondary literature
• construct and present coherent arguments orally and in writing
• show effective skills of presentation and communication
• give and receive feedback during presentations to your peers
• show increased responsibility for your own learning by undertaking independent research.