PHI-30025 - Module Specification
School of Social Sciences
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Completion of core modules at Level 2 in Philosophy OR permission of module convenor

Barred Combinations

N/A

Description for 2024/25

This module will enable you carry out independent research on either a philosopher or a philosophical problem of your choice. You will learn how to set your own title, devise your own research questions and how to write an extended research essay.
The module is assessed as follows:
After a number of seminars on how to design and implement an extended research project, you will have regular meetings with your Dissertation Supervisor. You will submit a 1,500 word portfolio consisting of a research proposal and annotated bibliography as part of the development of your project, and finally a 7,500 word dissertation.

The module aims to develop student's ability to identify a research/dissertation topic, formulate appropriate research questions and find and identify relevant literature and sources. The module also aims to develop student's ability to plan, structure and complete a more substantial piece of independent work than is required for curriculum-based modules.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Identify and explain a viable research topic and research question: 1,2
Plan and structure a more substantial piece of
work than is required in curriculum-based modules: 1,2
Communicate effectively an extended argument in writing.: 2
Critically assess the merits and drawbacks of the philosophical positions they discuss.: 2
Identify, analyze and critically discuss the literature relevant to the research question: 2

Study hours

Active learning hours:
5 hours of teaching sessions
Independent study hours:
10 hours of preparation for teaching sessions
25 hours of research portfolio preparation
260 hours of independent research, consultations with supervisor and writing dissertation

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment