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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Fundamentals in Researcher Development
Reference GSM010 Version 3
Created October 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 11
Approved November 2019 SCQF Points 30
Amended October 2023 ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
Acquisition of fundamental critical skills for the development of an independent researcher

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Systematically evaluate a significant range of pertinent academic literature and research output to develop a critical understanding of the topic of study
2 Critically evaluate routine and forefront methodological approaches for research investigation, with a focus on those relevant to the topic of study
3 Identify strategies for adherence to research integrity, including ethical considerations, relevant to the topic of study
4 Critically reflect on the range of skills that evidence effective researcher development
5 Effectively communicate the proposed research topic and concepts

Indicative Module Content
Facilitate researcher development via acquisition of critical skills in: formulation of research question/hypothesis; literature search strategies and critical appraisal; research philosophy; rigour, governance and integrity for research; insight into methodological approaches; data management planning; self-management; written and oral presentation skills.

Module Delivery
This module is made up of a combination of teaching and learning methods. This includes lectures, seminars and workshops during the teaching week, and supplementation of this learning by participating in appropriate School programmes, and active learning sessions with the Principal Supervisor and members of the Supervisory Team. Additionally, course participants will be supported through use of the Vitae Researcher Development Framework (RDF) planner and Professional Development Planning for Researchers Online Course (PDP ROC).

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 40 40
Non-Contact Hours 260 260
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 300 300
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: Practical Exam Weighting: 0% Outcomes Assessed: 5
Description: Individual oral presentation on research topic.
Component 2
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4
Description: Written assignment on research topic.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
This module will be assessed by an individual oral presentation (C1) and a written assignment on the proposed research topic (C2). The oral presentation is competence based on a Pass or Fail basis. The written assignment contributes 100% toward the final module grade.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A pass in Component 1 and an A in Component 2.
B A pass in Component 1 and a B in Component 2.
C A pass in Component 1 and a C in Component 2.
D A pass in Component 1 and a D in Component 2.
E A pass in Component 1 and an E in Component 2.
F A pass in Component 1 and an F in Component 2.
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None, in addition to course entry requirements.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

ADDITIONAL NOTES
The aims and learning outcomes of this module for assessment purposes are contextualised to the particular field of research. Students must successfully complete this module before undertaking GSM011.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 PHILLIPS,E.M. and PUGH, D.S., 2015. How to get a PhD: a handbook for students and their supervisors. 6th ed. Maidenhead : McGraw-Hill Open University Press. ebook
2 BLAXTER, L., HUGHES, C. and TIGHT, M., 2010. How to research. 4th ed. Maidenhead : McGraw-Hill/Open University Press. ebook
3 DENICOLO, P. and REEVES, J. 2014. Developing Transferable Skills: Enhancing Your Research and Employment Potential (Success in Research). Sage Publications Ltd.
4 KEARNS, H. and GARDINER, M. 2012. The Seven Secrets of Highly Successful Research Students. 3rd ed. Thinkwell. ebook
5 OLIVER P., 2012. Suceeding with your literature review: a handbook for students. ebook
6 CRESWELL, J.W. and CRESWELL, J.D. 2018. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches Sage Publications Ltd.
7 WALLWORK, A., 2011. English for writing research papers. New York : Springer. ebook
8 VITAE, 2019. Professional development planning for researchers online course (PDP ROC). Cambridge: Vitae: Available online.


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