2018/19 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
SOEE5309M MGeol Research Project
50 creditsClass Size: 15
Module manager: Dr Andrew McCaig
Email: A.M.Mccaig@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2018/19
Pre-requisite qualifications
Successful completion of year 3.This module is not approved as an Elective
Objectives
This module aims to give a thorough training both in generic research methods, and in methods appropriate to a particular field of Geological Sciences chosen by the student. The student will plan a project, undertake data collection and analysis, make oral presentations, interact with a research group as a member for the year, and write a substantial thesis.It is expected that the work should in many cases be publishable.
On completion of the module the student should be able to:
• Show knowledge and understanding of the scientific process, the communication of scientific results, laboratory/field or computational methods, and data management and analysis.
• Practice and develop skills in problem solving, scientific reasoning, critical thinking and effective enquiry
• Demonstrate discipline-specific skills in designing a tractable research project, independently conducting research, analysing and synthesising data, and communicating research findings both in writing and orally
Learning outcomes
Students should:
(1) be able to deal with complex issues systematically and creatively, make sound judgments in the absence of complete data, and communicate conclusions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences;
(2) be able to demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level;
(3) have advanced their knowledge and understanding, and developed new skills to a high level;
(4) have gained confidence in oral presentation of scientific ideas in both informal and formal settings; and
(5) have an opportunity to further refine thier presentation skills.
Skills outcomes
Specific skills will depend on the chosen project
Syllabus
• Planning a research project and erecting hypotheses
• Critically analysing scientific literature
• Collecting and analysing data including keeping a careful record of data acquisition and analysis in an electronic laboratory book. Selecting appropriate methods of data analysis and presentation
• Join and interact with an active research group, including informal presentation of preliminary results
• Use of Endnote and other software depending on topic
• Evaluation of results in the light of pre-existing literature
• Formal oral presentation of final results to peers and academic staff members in a conference-style session
• Production of a well presented bound thesis.
Milestones:
1) Choice of topic from a list before the start of the final year
2) Preparation of a project work plan and table of contents (assessed)
3) Regular individual tutorials with a member of staff
4) Keeping of an electronic lab book detailing data collection, and tutorial discussions with annexes
5) Presentation to research group to test progress early in semester 2
6) 12,000 word dissertation (assessed)
Teaching methods
Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
Lecture | 2 | 2.00 | 4.00 |
Tutorial | 9 | 1.00 | 9.00 |
Private study hours | 487.00 | ||
Total Contact hours | 13.00 | ||
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 500.00 |
Private study
Private study time will be spent collecting and analysing data (approx 100 hours), reading literature, preparing presentations, writing a 12,000 word dissertation, and attending relevant research seminars.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Regular individual tutorialsFeedback on research proposal
Presentation to research group at project midpoint. Progress reported to module leader
Pre-Easter check of progress reported to module leader
Methods of assessment
Coursework
Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
Essay or Dissertation | Dissertation (12,000 words plus electronic lab book/log) | 90.00 |
Oral Presentation | Conference style presentation to peers and staff. Note that a formative informal presentation will be made to a research group early in sem 2 | 5.00 |
Research Proposal | Project Proposal | 5.00 |
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 |
Resit is only possible by re-submitting the Dissertation.
Reading list
There is no reading list for this moduleLast updated: 26/04/2017
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD