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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Individual Research Investigation Energy and Sustainability
Reference CSM009 Version 2
Created February 2017 SCQF Level SCQF 11
Approved March 2013 SCQF Points 60
Amended January 2018 ECTS Points 30

Aims of Module
To develop analytical skills in the investigation and analysis of issues relevant to the field of energy in a sustainable practice by empirical research and/or structured literature review and to develop creativity skills in devising effective solutions through the detailed research of one selected topic commensurate with a Master’s Award. Students may focus on one of the 4 principal course disciplines but will have to address the interface with at least one other discipline.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Formulate a research proposal, choose appropriate research method(s) and translate this into a feasible research plan;
2 Independently, critically use research literature and/or primary research to address their research question(s);
3 Synthesise and apply the knowledge, understanding and skills developed in the taught elements of the programme of at least two of the principal course disciplines;
4 Assemble a coherent, well structured and intelligible dissertation which critically evaluates implication of their research for an energy and sustainability practice.

Indicative Module Content
Identification of project topic, subject to the approval of the University; Developing a research proposal; Research methods; Data collection and analysis; Synthesising data; Preparing a detailed written report, an oral presentation and an A3 poster to specified standards, detailing the important aspects of the work undertaken.

Module Delivery
This module is completed through independent work. To support the student, online lectures on performing research are made available and an academic supervisor is allocated who will guide and advise the student through their progression of the research process.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours N/A 20
Non-Contact Hours N/A 580
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL N/A 600
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 20% Outcomes Assessed: 1
Description: Development of a research project proposal
Component 2
Type: Coursework Weighting: 80% Outcomes Assessed: 2, 3, 4
Description: Project report, academic poster and oral presentation

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
Students must complete all components of the module to pass.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A >70%
B 60-69%
C 55-59%
D 50-54%
E 40-49%
F <40%
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module The eight prior modules from the PgDiploma Energy and Sustainability stage must have been satisfactorily completed.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

ADDITIONAL NOTES
Extensive specialised reading is required (project determined). Where necessary, arrangements can be made to protect commercial confidence.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 MAUCH, J.E., 2003, Guide to the successful Thesis and Dissertation, 5th edition. ebook.
2 SWETNAM, D., 2007. Writing your dissertation: how to plan, prepare and present your work successfully. ebook.
3 WALLWORK, A., 2011. English for writing research papers. London: Springer. ebook.


Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781