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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Dissertation
Reference SU4051 Version 4
Created January 2024 SCQF Level SCQF 10
Approved July 2018 SCQF Points 30
Amended April 2024 ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
To provide the student with the ability to further develop professional skills through undertaking a research based investigation, which addresses a specialist area of need in the built environment. The investigation should synthesise complex issues of problem identification, evaluate research material and draw valid conclusions through independent research.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Examine an industry related issue appropriate to a chosen subject within the course discipline and professional practice.
2 Illustrate an understanding of the application of research methods through the acquisition of data collection and analytical investigation to appraise contemporary principles, arguments, applications, and practice.
3 Compose a well-informed and structured argument in written and graphic form that constructively and critically reflects on the findings of the investigation, presenting a thorough understanding of a relatively concise theme within the discipline.

Indicative Module Content
The module provides a framework for selecting a feasible topic to investigate and clarify the scope of a proposal of an industry related issue or problem. The student will be informed about approaches to planning and investigating research, and the acquisition and processing of data. Methods of analysing data and the summarising of findings in a coherent and structured way will be discussed. Students will be informed about the structure and presentation of a research investigation to a high academic standard.

Module Delivery
This is a student-centred module supported by lectures and workshops in research methods and their application. Students are required to initiate, develop, and manage their investigation effectively, and will be supported and guided through the module by academic supervision.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 30 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours 240 N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body 240  

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3
Description: A research-based assignment consisting of illustrated written work compiled in accordance with the module learning outcomes with the application of knowledge and understanding developed through investigation of the course content.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting of Component 1 (dissertation). An overall minimum grade D is required to pass the module. Non-submission will result in an NS grade.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A
B B
C C
D D
E E
F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

ADDITIONAL NOTES
All proposals must be tested against the RGU Ethics in Research document.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 O'Leary, Zina, (2021) The essential guide to doing your research project, 4th edition, Sage publications London.
2 Bell, J, & Waters, S (2018), Doing your research project : a guide for first-time researchers, 7th Edition, Open university press, London
3 NAOUM, S.G., (2019). Dissertation research and writing for built environment students, 4th edition, London : Routledge Publication
4 McKim, Courtney A. (2021). The Value of Mixed Methods Research: A Mixed Methods Study, Sage publications, SAGE Journals Premier

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