This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
All students undertake a supervised empirical research project in an area of psychology relevant to their chosen MSc programme, and submit it as a typed dissertation of approximately 8,000 words. The aim of the dissertation is to test the student's ability to plan, execute, analyse, and report a piece of independent research in the relevant setting. The dissertation requires detailed theoretical knowledge of the discipline, an appreciation of the ways in which that knowledge has been applied in previous research and practice, and the methodological and statistical skills to set up a scientific investigation. Supervision is provided by the principal teaching staff and by other appropriate staff with research interests in a student's chosen area. Students are advised to read the School's Ethics pages for information on submitting applications for ethical approval to the School and to relevant outside bodies.
Total contact hours: No formal timetabled events.
Private study hours: 600
Total study hours: 600
Compulsory to:
Developmental Psychology, MSc-T
Research Methods in Psychology, MSc-T
Political Psychology, MSc-T
Group Processes, MSc-T
Cognitive Psychology/Neuropsychology, MSc-T
Social and Applied Psychology MSc-T
Presentation 5-10 minutes 10%
Dissertation 8,000 words 90%
Reassessment methods: Like for Like.
Reading list (Indicative list, current at time of publication. Reading lists will be published annually)
No books are recommended for purchase. Students will conduct their own literature search and discuss suitable readings with their supervisors. The following materials are useful references and can be considered in preparation for the module:
American Psychological Association (2009). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th Ed.). Washington: American Psychological Association
British Psychological Society (2009). Code of Ethics and Conduct. Available: http://www.bps.org.uk/system/files/documents/code_of_ethics_and_conduct.pdf
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1. Demonstrate the ability to report a piece of research in BPS/APA format, including theory, hypotheses, methods, analysis and interpretation of results, and discussion.
8.2. Have a detailed appreciation of the difficulties and constraints they have encountered during their project.
8.3. Demonstrate that they have conducted an empirical research project in an area of Psychology appropriate to their degree, documented in a complete project report.
8.4. Demonstrate the ability to present their scientific work in person, clearly and effectively, with the use of visual aids such as slides or posters.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1. Demonstrate enhanced skills in critical evaluation of arguments
9.2. Demonstrate enhanced skills in statistical analysis
9.3. Demonstrate enhanced skills in the management of projects
9.4. Demonstrate enhanced skills in written and oral communication – in particular the ability to communicate complex information in a clear and accessible style.
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