PERF08041 2013 Dissertation
The aim of this module is to provide learners with the opportunity to carry out independent research and to submit a written researched document of 6,000-8,000 words in an area related to the performing arts. Dissertations can be practice based involving designing, directing or performing a piece of theatre which serves as the basis of the research; the research can be based on a research question investigated through primary research/studies undertaken by the learner; or, the research can be wholly based on secondary research. Dissertations will demonstrate ability to source information within a designed framework or methodology, contextualise research, engage in critical analysis, and present findings.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
define a research problem or question
to consider varying methodological approaches and to adopt framework suitable to topic being researched
to employ primary and secondary research strategies
produce and present a research dissertation proposal, defining area of research and rationale, outlining the value of this research
read widely and critically reflect on literature, demonstrating knowledge of current scholarship and debates in specified area
produce a dissertation that evaluates and synthesises written materials and displays evidence of independent research skills
discuss and present research objectives, methods, findings and conclusions and engage in interactive discussion of the work, answering questions, calrifying points and defending the work
coordinate interaction and communication with external groups connected to the research in the form of interviews, focus groups, questionnaires etc
Module Assessment Strategies
The dissertation is a sustained research document but marks are awarded throughout the process for proposal, first draft, final draft and oral presentation of research. Dissertation is marked by supervisor and second reader.
Indicative Syllabus
Introduction to Dissertation
Narrowing/Focusing research topic
Research Methodologies
Dissertation proposal
Structuring the research
Ethical considerations
Literature Review/Contextualisation
Analysis of findings
Structure of submitted document
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Project dissertation proposal | Coursework Assessment | UNKNOWN | 5 % | Week 3 | 1,2,3,4,7 |
2 | Project Dissertation first draft | Coursework Assessment | UNKNOWN | 10 % | Week 9 | 1,2,3,4,5,6 |
3 | Project Dissertation | Coursework Assessment | UNKNOWN | 70 % | Week 15 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,8 |
4 | Project Presentation & Viva | Coursework Assessment | UNKNOWN | 15 % | End of Term | 1,2,3,5,6,7,8 |
Module Resources
Performing Arts Dissertation Handbook
Barrett, Estelle abd Barbara Bolt, Practice as Research: Approaches to Creative Arts Inquiry (Tauris, 2007)
Smith, Hazel and Roger Dean, Practice-led Research, Research-led Practice in the Creative Arts (Research Methods for the Arts and Humanities) (Ediniburgh UP, 2009)
Sullivan, Graeme, Art Practice as Research: Inquiry in the Visual Arts (Sage, 2010)
Ackroyd, Judith, Research Methodologies for Drama Education (Trentham, 2006)
None