This module provides students with an understanding of academic research and an ability to identify and utilise appropriate strategies and techniques for the purpose of individual investigation, research and practice within a subject specific area of their course route. The module guides students through appropriate research and/or data collection to ensure that they have the source material required to write their dissertation. This module will prepare students to undertake the dissertation module in Stage 2 of their course, including matching students with supervisors and ensuring that their proposal is satisfactory to reach the required level of independent thought in their dissertation project.
Private Study: 155 (e.g., preparing study materials, literature search, lab work etc.)
Contact Hours: 45 (20 hours oral presentation sessions, 25 hours supervisory meetings)
Total: 200
Non-contributory but compulsory to the following courses:
• MSc Clinical Psychology
• MSc Cognitive Psychology/Neuropsychology
• MSc Developmental Psychology
• MSc Organisational and Business Psychology
• MSc Social Psychology
Main assessment methods
Proposal (Pass/Fail)
Reassessment methods
Like-for-Like (pass/fail)
*This module cannot be resat as students require staff supervision to meet the learning outcomes. Students failing this module will be required to repeat this module in its entirety*
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate research attitudes, knowledge, and skills applicable to their intended research focus.
2 Identify relevant and feasible areas of research in in Psychology and related disciplines for the purpose of individual investigation.
3 Identify major research approaches and methodologies and their relevance and appropriateness to research.
4 Select a topic from the course and/or their own experience which will provide suitable scope for research in the dissertation.
5 Critically apply research approaches and methods, and project management techniques, in the design and planning of a research programme approved for research in the postgraduate dissertation.
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