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PPR.399 Dissertation(Optional): Introduction

PPR.399 Dissertation(Optional): Introduction. Ngai-Ling Sum, Lancaster University. Outline. Course aims Why the dissertation is important Choosing a topic Supervision Working on the dissertation . Aims. Explore a topic in depth. Use skills and knowledge gained from other modules.

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PPR.399 Dissertation(Optional): Introduction

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  1. PPR.399 Dissertation(Optional): Introduction Ngai-Ling Sum, Lancaster University

  2. Outline • Course aims • Why the dissertation is important • Choosing a topic • Supervision • Working on the dissertation

  3. Aims Explore a topic in depth Use skills and knowledge gained from other modules Experience of independent work with the advice of a mentor

  4. Why important? • 1. Develops important skills • ability to analyse in-depth and work independently • skills in making arguments, presenting evidence and communicating complex ideas • transfer these skills to work and postgraduate studies • 2. You can choose the topic! • Can focus on something that interests you (but needs also to be manageable) • Enables you to work with an experienced member of staff

  5. Choosing a topic Find an area Proposed a focused topic Proposed supervisor Best is to match your interest with the supervisor’s

  6. Example of topics

  7. Two things to keep in mind It is usually sensible to choose a topic related to something you are doing or have done It will also be good if you can match the interests of possible supervisors

  8. Just a long essay? • The dissertation is something more than just a ‘long essay’ • 1. Choose a fairly focused topic and show that you can analyse issues in detail • 2. For some dissertations, sources might go beyond academic books, articles and web search (some field work – Dr. H. Kawanami) • 3. Present ideas as linked chapters (help available from student learning support from the faculty – Joanne.wood@lancaster.ac.uk)

  9. Supervision • Supervisors will provide 3 hours of supervision. • That allows for six 30-minute meetings. • Your supervisor will: • i. help you to focus your topic and work out a more precise title; • ii. give you advice on your plan of research and on appropriate reading • iii. comment on an outline plan for the dissertation of 1500 words (max) • iv. be available from time to time (by appointment) for consultation and advice. • But your supervisor will not read or comment on the completed draft of the dissertation prior to submission

  10. Working on the dissertation • First meeting with supervisor no later than the end of the Summer term • Aim to get your topic finally agreed during the Summer term • Work on your dissertation during the Summer vacation, if possible, and during next Michaelmas and Lent terms. • Dissertation must be submitted by 19th March 2012 (end of Lent term).

  11. What to do next... • Week 16: Using library resources (Lorna Pimperton) 23 Feb 2012 • Week 17: Mechanics of Writing a Dissertation • Start thinking about a topic • Start thinking about a possible supervisor (check the pamphlet) • Return forms to Sue Mahon (B.40) no later than Wednesday 2nd May 2011

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