MA in Celtic Studies

Module Descriptor - Study and Research Methodology

Department: Welsh
Module Code: MAAS0620
Level: postgraduate
No of Credits: 20

Methods of assessment:
book review (1250 words) 30%
encyclopaedia article (1250 words) 30%
formatting a paper for publication (n/a) 10%
internet assignment (1250 words) 10%
dissertation proposal (1250 words) 20%

Teaching Method(s): course materials and tutoring as needed at a distance
Pre-requisite(s): none
Co-requisite(s): none
Incompatibles: none
Medium: Taught through the medium of English or Welsh
Contact hours : n/a
Term taught: Flexible enrolment
Lecturers: Dr Karen Jankulak and Owen Thomas  

Syllabus: This course examines techniques of study, research, and presentation at a postgraduate level.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module students will be expected to

• have thoroughly digested the difference between primary and secondary sources;
• take a self-consciously critical attitude towards the processes of academic research and writing;
• be aware of and hold to professional standards of presentation in the Humanities;
• be aware of the need for a historiographical consciousness, and be on the way to developing this in their own areas;
• have some practice in distilling their own research into lucid and brief writing;
• be comfortable with computers, and show some skill in accessing materials in this medium;
• show an awareness of the benefits and drawbacks of various types of secondary source material, including that found on the internet.

Transferable and other skills involved:

(In addition to those listed above) This module should enable students to:

• effectively read and write in a visibly critical fashion;
• recognise different levels of written discourse and evaluate the usefulness of each;
• become more self-conscious as regards all levels of communication, to do both with substance and presentation.

Evaluation:

Module evaluation questionnaires are distributed to students towards the end of the module. The curriculum is subject to annual reports by the External Examiner. Degree programmes within the University are subject to periodic review by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.