Overview

The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. It may involve practical experimentation in the laboratory and/or field or a non-experimental study. It is conducted under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The module also provides opportunities for students to develop their own ideas, to show initiative, to work on their own and to follow an agreed plan, and for these attributes to be assessed. The project must be written up in the form of a research honours project, to a specified format. In addition, it will also be assessed by an oral presentation in a group seminar.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Grade D- to D+The dissertation is logically structured and includes a literature review, a description of the methods used, a description and analysis of the findings, a discussion and a list of references. The justification for the project is identified but the experimental hypotheses are not clearly stated. The literature review covers relevant topics but is largely descriptive and lacks focus. Procedural details are described but some minor important items are omitted or unclear. The approach to data analysis is generally correct but limited in scope. The findings are generally presented and interpreted correctly. The discussion is adequate but limited in scope and depth. Some correct conclusions are drawn from the study. The standard of presentation is acceptable.

-good -Grade C- to B+The honours project is logically structured and includes a literature review, a description of the methods used, a description and analysis of the findings, a discussion and a list of references. The justification for the project is clearly identified and experimental hypotheses are stated. The literature review shows some evidence of critical analysis and covers relevant topics in a logical sequence. The methods and procedures used are appropriate, justified and described. The approach to data analysis is correct. The findings are presented clearly and interpreted correctly. The discussion relates the findings to current knowledge. It shows evidence of ability to collate information from a variety of sources to aid interpretation. Relevant conclusions are drawn and these are related to current practices and further experimentation as appropriate. The standard of presentation is high.

-excellent -Grade A- and aboveThe background justification for the project is clearly identified and experimental hypotheses are stated. The literature review is comprehensive, shows evidence of critical analysis and covers all relevant topics in a logical sequence. The methods and procedures used are appropriate, clearly justified and described. The approach to data analysis is correct. Important trends or effects are identified and tested. The findings are presented clearly and interpreted correctly. The discussion clearly relates the findings to current knowledge. It shows evidence of ability to collate information from a variety of sources to aid interpretation. Relevant conclusions are drawn and these are related to current practices and further experimentation as appropriate. The standard of presentation is very high.

Learning Outcomes

• Collect, critically analyse and summarise information (Benchmark 4.4, 4.5).

• Collect, prepare and process data using appropriate statistical and other procedures (Benchmark 4.5, 4.6, 4.8).

• Communicate accurately and effectively using appropriate methods (Benchmark 4.7).

• Devise, plan and undertake investigations in a safe and responsible manner (Benchmark 4.4, 4.5).

• Evaluate information and draw appropriate conclusions from it using existing knowledge, concepts and principles from relevant disciplines (Benchmark 4.4).

• Work effectively as an individual to achieve targets and meet requirements (Benchmark 4.9).