AUS5035A - Research Dissertation in Australian Studies - Pt 1

Leader: Dr Andrew Hassam

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

Students devise a research project on a topic of their choosing in consultation with the unit coordinator and a potential supervisor. Students develop skills of independent learning and critical thinking through carrying out their research under the supervision of a member of the academic staff. The completion of an 18,000-word dissertation assesses the student's ability to complete a work of research that satisfies the highest standards of scholarly argument, research, documentation and referencing.

Objectives

Upon completing AUS5035 students should be able to demonstrate:

1. skills of independent learning and research;
2. the ability to reflect on personal learning and respond productively to constructive feedback;
3. the ability to utilise proficiently a range of IT resources such as word processing and email, search databases and text files, and to locate, employ and evaluate internet sites;
4. knowledge of a specific body of research in the field of Australian Studies;
5. critical thinking, analytical and problem solving skills;
6. the ability to recognise, represent and critically reflect upon ideas and concepts from diverse cultures, and the ability to reflect on their own cultural values;
7. a critical awareness of conceptual and empirical issues pertaining to Australian Studies;
8. effective written communication skills across an 18,000-word project;
9. the ability to complete a work of research that satisfies the highest standards of scholarly argument, research, documentation and referencing.

Assessment

Dissertation proposal synopsis and outline (1500 words): 10%;
Literature review (1500 words): 10%;
Dissertation (15,000 words): 80

Contact hours

Average contact 1 hour fortnightly with 24 hours of private study per week

Prohibitions

AUS5003 Research Project in Australian Studies