Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title MTV Dissertation
Module Code CM533A
School School of Communications
Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 30
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description
The purpose of this module is to assist students in developing their dissertation proposals to a point where they can direct their own research (albeit with the option to consult with a dissertation supervisor). The module allows students to properly conceptualise their dissertation, identifying a core research question, a rationale for pursuing that question and a range of methods appropriate to their question. This module is run in a context where one-third of the overall marks for students undertaking the MA in Film and Television Studies are awarded for the dissertation alone.

Learning Outcomes
1. Clearly identify and describe the subject of their dissertation
2. Identify research methodologies appropriate to the question(s) raised by their chosen topic.
3. List the range of information resources upon which their literature review will be based.
4. Draw up a research outline, breaking down the research process into discrete stages.
5. Allocate specific blocks of time to various elements of the research process.
6. Identify whether their chosen topic is pragmatic - i.e. whether it can be completed within the temporal, financial and informational constraints likely to be faced in taking on said topic.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture22No Description
Lecturer-supervised learning (contact)20No Description
Total Workload: 42

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Doing a dissertation - introduction.
Outline of exemplary models for theses structures and criteria for assessment. Discussion of role of key thesis elements: introduction, literature review, methodology, data collection, analysis and discussion, conclusion/summary..

Choosing a topic.
How to move from a general subject area to a well conceptualised and clearly defined research question..

From research outline to research design to research schedule..
How to identify key data required to address core research question(s), where to find data and how to schedule the research taking into account the available financial and temporal resources..

In-class critique.
Presentation of draft outlines of the "what, why and how" of the dissertation for class discussion/progressive critique..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
EssayStudents are required to complete an essay of not less than 1500 words, outlining the "what, why and how" of their dissertation. In other words, the essay effectively constitutes a frist draft of the introductory chapter of the dissertation.100%Week 30
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 2
Indicative Reading List
    Other Resources
    None
    Array
    Programme or List of Programmes
    MTVMA in Film and Television Studies
    Timetable this semester: Timetable for CM533A
    Date of Last Revision08-OCT-10
    Archives: