Unit information: Research Skills (Modern Languages) in 2013/14

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Unit name Research Skills (Modern Languages)
Unit code MODLM2045
Credit points 20
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director Dr. Nick Rees-Roberts
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None
Co-requisites

None
School/department School of Modern Languages
Faculty Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

This unit provides training in core research skills for students at the beginning of their postgraduate careers in the disciplines within Modern Languages. It covers training in bibliographical and library research skills; presentation skills; applying generally applicable theoretical approaches to focused research projects; critical evaluation of sources; the formulation of research proposals. Students will be supported in their approaches to the various elements of the taught Masters programme and given a firm foundation for planning and beginning doctoral work. Students will be integrated into the research life of the School and keep a reflective learning log.

Intended Learning Outcomes

  1. Knowledge and understanding of the complex nature of literary and other primary texts
  2. Students will be able to demonstrate a sure command of bibliographical techniques
  3. Students will be able to communicate effectively and present a cogent and comprehensive argument, both orally and in writing
  4. Students will be able to make appropriate use of information technology for research and presentation of work
  5. Students will be able to undertake research using appropriate source materials
  6. Students will be able to work independently and to deadlines, to an exacting scholarly level

Teaching Information

The unit runs through both teaching blocks. It is comprise of fortnightly lectures (1 hour) in TB1 and seminars (2 hour) in TB2.

Assessment Information

  1. Bibliographical exercise based on automotive library and research source retrieval skills (33%)
  2. Presentation linked to methodological issues and plans for MA dissertation (33%)
  3. Reflective learning log (34%)

Reading and References

  • Alan Bond, Your Masters Thesis: How to plan, draft, write and revise (Studymates, 2006)
  • Diana Ridley, The Literature Review: A step-by-step guide for students (Sage, 2008)
  • Brian Roberts, Getting the most out of the research experience (Sage, 2007)

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