Independent Research Study module (UP41005)

This module provides you with the opportunity to undertake an independent extensive systematic investigation, theoretical and empirical, of a relevant topic or problem within your specialist field of either Urban Planning or Environmental Sustainability. Under supervision, you will collect and analyse relevant material, and further develop research skills acquired at earlier MA levels.

You will have the opportunity to select your research approach and present your finding in a traditional ‘dissertation format’. Alternatively, you may undertake a ‘major design-led research project’ that explores a particular issue and is informed by research, and may employ non-traditional means of creative media and visual communication (poster, video, mobile app, website etc.).

What you will learn

In this module you will:

• learn how to investigate an area of specific interest, identify a research problem, develop a research design, and undertake work to complete the study
• understand the social and ethical impacts of conducting research and carry it out in accordance with guidance and policy
• develop and apply skills in data collection, data processing, and analysis as well as presentation tools and techniques

By the end of this module you will be able to:

• demonstrate a critical knowledge and understanding of current ideas and arguments within a specialist area of study and understand the importance of an ethical approach to developing a major research project
• use data handling techniques appropriately
• identify research objectives, as well as construct and implement an appropriate research strategy
• demonstrate effective presentation and communication skills
• demonstrate a high level of autonomy and responsibility in planning and executing research
• design and plan a research, and carry out effective fieldwork
• develop an increased independence of view, and demonstrate the ability to analyse critically, make judgements, and draw conclusions
• apply skills in the selection and use of appropriate methods of communication to a professional level

Assignments / assessment

• research design proposal (10%)
  • due in the week 4 of Semester 1
• independent research study dissertation or major design project (80%)
  • due at the end of Semester 2
• research poster display for Degree Show (10%)
  • to be completed for mid May

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures and presentations
  • during the first five weeks of semester 1
  • given by graduates, staff, and students in preparation for carrying out your independent research
• individual supervision
  • you will be allocated a supervisor who will be your main contact for the remainder of the module beyond week 5
  • indicative milestones are provided to present your findings to date to your supervisor and small supervision cohort of other students
• practical digital sessions
  • during the beginning of semester 3
  • support for designing your research poster for display at the DJCAD Degree Show