This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module is intended to introduce undergraduate students to research. As such it provides an opportunity to work on a topic of their own choosing, in either archaeology, history or ancient literature. Originality and feasibility are important aspects of writing dissertations, and to avoid problems topics will be scrutinised and approved by CLAS before research can begin. Students can expect guidance from the module convenor and an academic supervisor throughout the process, varying from one-to-one tutorials to classes on how to edit your own prose. There will also be a meeting regarding the Dissertation at the end of the Spring term of the previous year to clarify arrangements and to outline what work is required on this module.
The programme document with regulations is sent to all students before the end of spring term of Stage 2. Students are invited to suggest titles for comment, for which tutors are allocated. They are advised to do preliminary reading over the summer based on generic advice of the module convenor. They then choose precise topics in consultation with the convenor and personal tutors at the start of the autumn term.
Total Contact Hours: 9
Private Study: 591
Total Study Hours: 600
Main assessment methods:
• Dissertation (10,000 words) – 80%
• Exercises (3 in total; marks averaged) – 20%
Reassessment method:
• 100% Project (10,000 words)
Indicative reading list
The MLA Style Sheet (New York 1970).
MHRA style book, notes for authors, editors and writers of Dissertations (London 1978).
F.W. Jenkins, Classical Studies. A Guide to the Reference Literature, 2nd edition (London 2006).
See also the updated MHRA Style Guide (MHRA 2002) on the web at www.mhra.org.uk
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate that they can choose a topic appropriate to their skills and interests, and where possible will be able to demonstrate originality in theme or approach;
2 Demonstrate pursuit of guided research into their chosen topic in classical and archaeological studies;
3 Demonstrate that they have been introduced to management of and standards pertinent to research publication in classics and archaeology.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate knowledge of the techniques of independent study required at Stage 3;
2 Demonstrate use and development of research skills (use of bibliographical resources, investigation and comparison of different kinds of evidence, critical reviewing of primary and secondary sources);
3 Write up their conclusions in accordance with accepted scholarly conventions (as to the use of bibliography and references, the presentation of evidence, the use of illustrations and co. where appropriate), using word-processing skills;
4 Produce written work that is presented to a high standard;
5 Produce written work that shows a high degree of organisation;
6 Produce written work that contains an independent intellectual argument.
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