Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Media – Course workSpecification 2019/20 Module name:Study Skills and Research MethodsModule code:ENGT 5214Title of the Assignment:Assignment BThis coursework item is:SummativeThis summative coursework will be marked anonymouslyNoThe learning outcomes that are assessed by this coursework are:1. A systematic understanding of research methodology and practice.2. The ability to interpret and critically appraise the research of others.3. The ability to develop a research proposal with a clear aim, set of objectivesand methodology4. The ability to plan a meaningful and original research project.This coursework constitutes 70% to the overall module mark.Date Set:31/01/20Date & Time Due:22/05/20Your marked coursework and feedback will be available after:If for any reason this is not forthcoming by the due date yourmodule leader will let you know why and when it can beexpected. The Head of Studies (JGow@dmu.ac.uk) should beinformed of any issues relating to the return of markedcoursework and feedback.19/06/20When completed you are required to submit your coursework to:All completed coursework must be sent to the module leader electronically using theBlackboard VLE ‘send assignment’ facility. To access this, see the ‘send assignment’ buttonto the left of the screen when viewing this module.Work submitted by other means will not be accepted.Late submission of coursework policy: Late submissions will be processed in accordance withcurrent University regulations which state:“The time period during which a student may submit a piece of work late withoutauthorisation and have the work capped at 50% if passed is 14 calendar days.Work submitted unauthorised more than 14 calendar days after the original submission datewill receive a mark of 0%. These regulations apply to a student’s first attempt atcoursework.Work submitted late without authorisation whichconstitutes reassessment of a previouslyfailed piece of coursework will always receive a mark of 0%.”Academic Offences and Bad Academic Practices:These include plagiarism, cheating, collusion, copying work and reuse of your own work,poor referencing or the passing off of somebody else’s ideas as your own. If you are in anydoubt about what constitutes an academic offence or bad academic practice you mustcheck with your tutor.Further information and details of how DSU can support you, if needed, is availableat: http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-supportoffice/academic-offences.aspx andhttp://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-support-office/badacademic-practice.aspx Assignment B – Tasks to be undertaken:This assignment is intended to support the development of a clear research thesis proposalthrough: An introduction to the research topic and problem context The presentation of a clear aim and set of objectives A concise literature survey highlighting the key themes for your proposed project ina critical manner A detailed explanation, with justification, of your chosen methodology foryour planned research study A summary of any ethical issues that you anticipate and how these will be addressed. Consideration of any risks involved with the chosen methodology, and how thesewill be managed. A detailed work plan for the proposed study including Milestones and related tasks.The marking scheme for the assignment is the following:This assignment should not be more than 2,500 words excluding references.Deliverables to be submitted for assessment:2500-word reportHow the work will be marked:Assessment will be based on the extent to which the learning outcomes listed above havebeen met.• Possesses an authoritative grasp of the conceptualcontext within which the work was undertaken• Is able to display originality, insight and powers of indepth critical analysis in the solution offered and/or isable to sustain an argument displaying originality, insightinto current debates and conceptual positions, in- depthcritical analysis, and is capable of expressing thisargument clearly, concisely and accurately Marking weightRelevant introduction and context to chosen researchtopic 10%Clear research aim and relevant research objectivespresented 20%Concise literature review clearly presenting researcharea and identifying research gap for proposed research 20%Detailed methodology for proposed research activity,including relevant ethical consideration and risksinvolved with chosen methods30%Detailed work plan for research 10%Style, structure and use of appropriate referencing style 10%Band Description70% – 100% Excellent work which demonstrates that the“Distinction Level” student: • Possesses a high degree of relevant technicalcompetence60% – 69% A clear grasp of an appropriate methodology suitably“Merit Level” focused on the topic/problem. A good level ofunderstanding, organisation and relevant technicalability. An ability to synthesise material and to constructresponses which reveal good skills of critical analysis andinsight.55% – 59% A coherent response to the task undertaken demonstrating“Pass level” a sound grasp of appropriate methodology.Work will be accurate and appropriately organised withclear evidence of skills of critical analysis.50% – 54% The grasp of material and methodology is such as to“Marginal pass enable a basic response to the task undertaken.level” Work will generally be accurate and appropriatelyorganised with some evidence of critical analysis.45% – 49% The work demonstrates some understanding of the“Marginal fail” topic/problem but overall the achievement in terms ofunderstanding, technical accuracy, organisation andcritical analysis does not justify a pass mark.40% – 44% Student’s performance is deficient in most respects,“Fail” revealing inadequate grasp of the material, poororganisational and technical ability and poorly developedcommunication skills. No evidence of critical analysis. Aclear fail.Module leaders/tutor names:Dr Raffaella VillaContact details:raffaella.villa @dmu.ac.uk
