The dissertation is a major component of the MA and its content and intellectual standard should reflect this. Whilst the dissertation does not have to demonstrate the kind of originality required for theses submitted for degrees by research, it should have a wider scope, including a research element, and contain more detail and sustained argument than other coursework assignments. The overall aim of this Module is to build on the theoretical and methodological material included in the six compulsory modules. It addresses practical questions of research and writing the dissertation, and the construction of the dissertation itself. It also follows on and draws on the use of research materials (qualitative and quantitative data); using research and resources (libraries, documentation, and the internet); and drafting and writing, including the use of appropriate academic style and format. The dissertation will be library-based and not field research.
Total contact hours: 42
Private study hours: 558
Total study hours: 600
Advanced Child Protection (Distance Learning) MA
Main assessment method
Dissertation [12,000 words (references are excluded from the word count)] – 100%
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
Alston M & Bowles W (2003) Research for Social Workers London, Routledge
Drew P et al (2006) Talk and Interaction in Social Research Methods London Sage
Hollway, W. and T. Jefferson (2000). Doing Qualitative Research Differently. London, Sage Publications.
McLaughlin, H. (2007) Understanding Social Work Research, London. Sage
Robson, C (2002) Real World Research London, Blackwell
Shaw, I et al (2010) The Sage Handbook of Social Work Research. Sage, London.
Thyer, B. (2001) The Handbook of Social Work Research Methods
Swetnam, D & R. (2000) Writing your dissertation." How to Books Ltd.
Weyers, J. & McMillan, K. (2009) How to write dissertation and project reports. Pearson Education Ltd
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 a critically analytic understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods as applied to child protection and critically
evaluate the limitations of both approaches
8.2 Possess a systematic understanding and critical awareness of the political and social context of child protection research
8.3 Possess a systematic understanding and critical awareness of the complexity of child protection situations and therefore how complex the
ethical issues of research can be in this area
8.4 Demonstrate and critically apply advanced skills in interrogating and extracting information from statistical data including charts, graphs
and tables
8.5 Critically evaluate research findings and a variety of methodological approaches
8.6 Demonstrate and communicate a systematic understanding critical awareness of the implications and limitations of research in relation to
child protection practice
8.7 Critically evaluate the research based practice approach in child protection
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Demonstrate advanced communication skills commensurate with postgraduate study i and systematically assess and critically evaluate
research and empirical data.
9.2 Systematically gather, collate and interpret library and web based research and resources on child protection issues at a level appropriate
for postgraduate study
9.3 Be able to synthesise and evaluate complex knowledge and theoretical perspectives from different disciplines and countries
9.4 Possess a comprehensive understanding of IT resources and appropriate techniques to to follow up what they hear in recorded online
lectures and what they read in web based material
9.5 Summarise and critically evaluate their reading coherently, creatively and with originality communicate the conclusions and contribute to
web based discussions
9.6 Work with others in a systematic and creative manner during study days and in online forums to prepare and discuss topics and the
dissertation
9.7 Organise and manage their studying independently and with originality at a level commensurate with postgraduate study with online and
phone support from their tutors
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
