Type: DissertationSubject: HealthcarePages: 80 , Double Spacing (275 words/page)Academic level: MasterSources: 60Style: HarvardOrder Description to investigate the impact of a change in protocol for t

The purpose of this guide is to set out clearly the objectives, structures and processes of the dissertation and to provide guidance that will be of help to the student. It should be read through carefully and kept for reference. This guide should be read in conjunction with the student programme handbook.

Eligibility to start dissertation

Students can only start their Dissertation after they have accumulated 120 credits as per programme requirements. Some programmes have a compulsory “must pass component” prior to this module.

Topic Selection

In selecting a topic for your dissertation, you should first identify one that is of relevance to your practice, of personal interest, and is manageable, in terms of access to relevant people, information, equipment and the amount of time available to gather data. The dissertation should be defined and you should avoid developing too many areas for investigation- typically within a Masters dissertation one phase of research only is undertaken.

Learning and Teaching Strategies

To help you with your planning, four workshop sessions will be delivered by the module leader and members of the team.

Note that these are not formal teaching; instead they will encourage you to build on the learnt materials from HEST 5001 and other modules, through discussion within the group and identification of key texts.

For full time students on the MSc Nursing the module leader will arrange a series of tutorials in semester one, which will prepare your for collection of materials in semester two, and writing up in semester three.

Module Aims and Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module the student will be able to;

• Critically discuss the identification of research topic and the production of a research proposal which, where necessary, involves gaining ethical approval

• Critically debate and analyse the justification of an appropriate methodology for their chosen research area

• Critically analyse and evaluate the literature related to their chosen research area, synthesizing unique practice related insights into the cited literature

• Critically evaluate the methods of collection and analysis of data at an advanced level

• Synthesize sustainable conclusions from research of their chosen topic area and make recommendations for future research or practice innovation

Module Characteristics

This module is designed to provide students with the opportunity to undertake a major piece of original research, which will incorporate and test both the academic and practice elements of the course

Indicative Module Content

The module involves devising and designing a research project and the submission of proposals for research. Ethical procedures and gaining access to sources of investigation are also an essential part of the module.

The postgraduate student will also use the skills of analysing research using theoretical perspectives. They will endeavour to produce work that is potentially unique, and which provides a basis of innovation in the student's practice area.

Assessment of Dissertation

The dissertation will be assessed in the light of the following criteria, the student having:

• Undertaken a comprehensive literature search, including, where appropriate, non-traditional sources and been able to complete a literature review which critically explores a range of perspectives and contemporary debates.

• Demonstrated understanding by planning and conducting an investigation using research design(s)/method(s) appropriate to the field of study.

• Clearly presented findings appropriate to the evidence and the research question(s)/ focus and research objectives.

• Drawn on academic and professional understanding in offering a critical analysis and discussion of the data.

• Identified and discussed the main issues which arise through the dissertation, particularly in relation to theory building and practice development.

• Employed accurate and consistent referencing and references according to prescribed guidelines.

Presentation of the Dissertation

• The dissertation must be word processed using a size 12 font. It should be 1.5 spaced on A4 paper.

• Printing should be on one side of the page only

• All pages must be numbered

• Abbreviations: These should be explained in full where they are first used. If abbreviations are used repeatedly, provide a glossary at the beginning of the work, e.g. after the contents page.

• Referencing must follow the revised Harvard system. Correct referencing is essential for degree level work. Marks will be lost for inadequate referencing.

• Two bound copies must be submitted on the agreed date. One copy will be retained.

• The standard regulations for extensions and deferrals apply to the dissertation.

• A standard dissertation front page is included at the back of the module guide.

• Standard marking guidelines will be used, and are included in the module guide.

Excellent academic technique is expected for your dissertation. Do not lose marks through poor technique. This includes lapses of:

• Referencing

• Grammar

• Structure

• Vocabulary

You must make full use of your dissertation supervisor to plan and review your work to get good marks.