EDF3804

Independent Work-Based Project

8 Credit Points - Semester 2 - Peninsula Campus - 2 hours per week

Objectives: Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
* have developed an appreciation of the requirements of self-directed work-based research;
* have developed an understanding of the practical and theoretical contexts in which work-based research takes place;
* be able to develop a research proposal;
* be able to select and apply a variety of work-based research approaches and techniques;
* be able to design, manage and complete a work-based research project;
* be aware of the possibilities for dissemination of research project outcomes.

SYNOPSIS: This subject builds on the knowledge, experience and skills gained in previous BAL&D subjects and applies them in a work-based setting. It focuses on the research techniques and theories utilised in the work-place and asks participants to develop and complete a self-directed work-based research project. Students will be exposed to a variety of workplace research approaches and techniques, including independent and group-based approaches to research, questionnaires, interviews, document analysis, case-studies, action learning, focus groups and practitioner research They will also be expected to consider how the gathering of data will be shaped by the project's underpinning theoretical assumptions. The subject will emphasise the practical and independent development and management of a research project under the guidance of a mentor. Particular attention will be given to the workplace application of project outcomes.

ASSESSMENT: Development of a workplace project proposal (500 words) 30%; presentation of the proposal to the class(1000 word equivalence): 10%; completion of a workplace project : (3500 words) : 60%.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Harris R, Guthrie H, Hobart B & Lundberg D 1995Competency-based Education and training: Between a rock and a whirlpool, McMillan, Melbourne
Foley, G (ed) 1995 Understanding Adult Education and Training, Allen and Unwin, Sydney

Back to the 1999 Education Handbook