Moodle

Module Description
This module seeks to explore a range of theoretical, philosophical and methodological approaches to postgraduate research with a specific focus on the literature search and review phase of a research project. The module will look closely at the process of writing an academic literature review. Alongside this, students will develop skills in reviewing and critically analysing academic texts, developing insights on research methodology and epistemology that will be developed in later (Spring term) modules. Students will be guided in their study through intensive workshop sessions, but are also expected to undertake a substantial programme of self-directed study, including searching for, reading and reviewing relevant literature. This self-directed study forms an important part of the delivery of the module, and is built in to the schedule below. Assessment will be based on two written pieces of coursework completed at the end of the module. Full details of the assessment are given below, and additional guidance is available on the Moodle page.

Module Aims
This module aims to help students to be able to:
1. Critically evaluate academic texts and review bodies of literature.
2. Understand reflexivity and its relationship to the literature review process.
3. Comprehend different epistemological positions and their relationship to theory, research design and the selection of appropriate methods of data collection and analysis.
4. Appreciate the relationship between literature and research questions.
5. Develop the skills and understanding needed to be able to produce an academic literature review.

Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to demonstrate:
1. Skills in critically evaluating academic texts and bodies of literature.
2. The capacity to adopt a reflexive approach to research, being able to examine, and develop a critique of, different ways of engaging with and responding to literature.
3. An informed understanding of the relationship between academic literature, the formulation of research questions and the selection of appropriate methods of data collection and analysis.
4. An informed understanding of the relationship between alternative
epistemological positions and research design.
5. The capacity to produce an academic literature review in a chosen area of study.

Skills for academic and professional life (transferable skills)
In addition to the above Learning Outcomes, this module will also contribute to students' development of the following employability skills:
* Written communication
* Critical analysis
* Management and organization of resources
* Oral communication and discussion
* Research skills
* Teamwork and collaboration
* Digital and technical fluency
* Innovation and curiosity