RSCH09059 2024 Research/Capstone Project

Develop a research methodology and project plan for a research/capstone project, including critically evaluating the effectiveness of any research approach identified.

Critically examine literature and draw inferences from this body of knowledge to further knowledge and understanding of an unfamiliar and/or ill-defined problem

Select and apply a range of standard and specialised research or equivalent tools and techniques of enquiry to the research project.

Interpret, critique and synthesise data that is state of the art in a relevant area. 

Carry out the research/capstone project in an ethical manner.

Produce a research/capstone dissertation in a format appropriate to a level 9 award that details and evaluates the work undertaken and justifies the conclusions reached.

Demonstrate the validity of the research process undertaken.

This is an individual project where the learner will research a core topic related to the programme.

Learners will avail of one-to-one supervision with a designated supervisor and may undertake additional workshops that their supervisor considers of value. This support will ensure that the transdisciplinary nature of the issue/problem(s) is considered through viewing problems through a variety of lens, ensuring that the connection of disciplinary knowledge to the professional practice is made and that the values and ethos of the programme are reflected. To undertake this successfully students must fully engage with their research supervision.

There are two distinctive assessments within this learning experience.

Milestone management (5%)

Individual lecturers will expect students to engage in milestone management opportunities. This is specific to each project, but students must adhere to these requirements. Midway through the first semester of the project, all students will present their work to date to their peers and the supervision team. This will equate to 5% of the overall grade. (This may be adjusted if needed in line with any changing health emergency).

Research Project Summative (95%)

This research thesis will be assessed both verbally and with a written submission. There are two components to this assessment.

1. Written submission will be 30,000 words, including references. (75%).
2. Students in their oral presentation will be expected to defend their research project and process to examiners. At the start of this oral examination, students will present their work using a poster or visual aid. They will also be required to outline their project's contribution to knowledge in the field of leadership and indicate a dissemination opportunity for their work (20%)

The research study must adhere to ATU Sligo's RESEARCH ETHICS PROCEDURE.

Where a learner fails this module the Examiners will identify where the deficits in learning occurred. The learner will then have an opportunity to address these deficits and resubmit the project for a full re-examination.

Any repeat submission is capped at 40%.

LO1) Develop a research methodology and project plan for a research/capstone project, including critically evaluating the effectiveness of any research approach identified. Students will develop, discuss and defend why they have chosen a particular topic, research process and format.

LO2) Critically examine literature and draw inferences from this body of knowledge to further knowledge and understanding of an unfamiliar and/or ill-defined problem. Students are expected to critically review key literature relevant to their chosen research area. They are expected to demonstrate and evaluate forms of knowledge and how different knowledge can influence the format of the information presented e.g. policy document, legislative document, and peer-review publication, whilst not ignoring the importance of different sources to a research area. They are expected to present and argue literature which clearly demonstrates increased knowledge and expertise in their fields, and where appropriate informs the development of further stages of their research project.

LO3) Select and apply a range of standard and specialised research or equivalent tools and techniques of enquiry to the research project. Paradigms of enquiry, methodologies methods of data collection, tools and techniques are decided within the student-supervisor relationship but must demonstrate clear relevancy to the research chosen. Students must be able to justify and clearly articulate these decisions, as the best fit for their research project. Explaining how chosen techniques are used to create, interpret and present knowledge.

LO4) Interpret, critique and synthesise data that is state of the art in a relevant leadership area. The student must demonstrate their ability to gather, generate and analyse data that leads to appropriate recommendations and conclusions 

LO5) Carry out their research/capstone project in an ethical manner. The research study must adhere to ATU Sligo`s  Research Ethics Policy and Procedure 

LO6)  Produce a research/capstone dissertation in a format appropriate to a level 9 award that details and evaluates the work undertaken and justifies the conclusions reached. Students completed work will demonstrate the knowledge, skills and competency that are required for a level nine award in this area. It will be presented and published in a manner appropriate to this award level e.g. typed, bound.

LO7) Demonstrate the validity of the research process undertaken. In addition to the written thesis, a  poster presentation and viva voce will be undertaken by the student, allowing them to present and defend their work to examiners. Students must demonstrate a thorough understanding of all aspects of their research project. Questions to be answered accurately and fluently and the discussion to be extended with confidence in familiar and unfamiliar areas.