This module examines the design and process of educational research , enabling participants to develop and design a research study for their MA dissertation. The module enhances participants critical, methodological and practical skills necessary for conducting research. Key areas considered include the value of research in society and professional settings, research approaches, identifying and formulating research questions, data collection tools, and data analysis.

1. Identify, critique and apply appropriate research methodologies to a specific research area of their choice and which is relevant to their pathway;

2. Make full use of library and electronic search facilities;

3. Use pertinent literature as a resource to develop understandings and to illuminate data and evidence to be collected;

4. Conduct a literature search and present a critical evaluation of the literature research findings;

5. Identify a suitable area and/or issue for investigation which has professional and pathway relevance;

6. Develop a clearly articulated hypothesis/research question;

7. Design and produce a detailed research framework;

8. Extend and deepen their understanding of a chosen area of investigation;

9. Develop an appreciation of reliability, validity, dependability, credibility and contexts as they apply to chosen methodologies;

10. Reflect on and evaluate ethical issues pertaining to research;

11. Critically evaluate qualitative and quantitative research approaches and methods;

12. In light of the literature reviewed and the data and evidence collected, refine and elaborate both their own personal theories/values and those of others;

13. Reflect on and assess the potential to have an impact within their own context/organisations;

14. Develop as researchers and reflective practitioners;

15. Prepare, structure and present work employing appropriate academic guidelines;

16. Demonstrate originality, initiative and reflection;

17. Produce a brief synopsis of the proposed investigation to a tutor and to a peer tutor group for guidance and support;

18. Identify and critique the research process proposed including instrumentation, sampling and analyses;

19. Justify their chosen approach/methodology, identifying issues and limitations;

20. Complete a Dissertation Proposal.

The dissertation module is a crucial component of the MA programme, enabling participants to explore an area of personal and professional interest through a 20,000-word research dissertation. The area researched aligns with the Advanced Research Methods proposal, completed earlier. The research dissertation fosters originality, initiative, and reflective thinking as participants organise and apply their research skills in a professional context. The research dissertation aims to contribute to a broader understanding, inform policy development and impact practice in both professional and academic arenas.

1. carry out an investigation of personal interest and professional relevance to the standards of Masters level research requirements;

2. complete and submit a dissertation to the standards and within the time and length parameters outlined in the dissertation handbook;

3. have reached a level of competence and confidence within the area of study which allows them to enhance their own professional performance and contribute to the professional development of colleagues in that area;

4. have reached a high degree of critical awareness of the opportunities and challenges for their professional organisation or institution arising out of the findings of their research;

5. be able to act as change agents within their organisation /institution as a result of their learning;

6. be able to enter into critical dialogue with the wider professional and academic community on the topic/issues pursued in their dissertation.