EDF6035 - Masters thesis major rewrite

Leader: Associate Dean Teaching (Postgraduate)

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2007 (Evening)
Clayton First semester 2007 (Off-campus)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Evening)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

The Masters thesis is a research study, focusing on a particular theory, issue, challenge, dilemma, concern or problem in the field of education, undertaken with a supervisor. Although students will be expected to demonstrate initiative and independence, the supervisor will offer guidance, support and feedback over the course of the research. The Masters thesis is designed for students who are intending to undertake further higher degree studies. Graduates who have successfully completed the Masters thesis will be able to use this 16,000 word study as evidence of independent research experience in an application for entry into the PhD or Doctor of Education programs.

Objectives

By the completion of this unit (and EDF6031 Masters thesis Part 1, EDF6032 Masters thesis Part 2, EDF6033 Masters thesis Extension 1 and EDF6034 Masters thesis Extension 2), students should be able to produce a thesis that displays competence at understanding and carrying out research in the field of education, but with less emphasis on comprehensive knowledge and originality as required in a PhD or EdD.
Specifically, they should be able to:

1. Devise a research topic to investigate that is feasible within the two-unit time frame
2. identify key research questions that are not too general and ambitious
3. Select and review relevant theory and literature
4. Design a study and choose appropriate methods to investigate research questions
5. Select appropriate modes of analysis
6. Consider ethical issues involved in research
7. Implement, critically appraise or apply research in a particular field
8. Prepare a comprehensive written report that is professionally presented and contains all the required components including a bibliography at the end.

Assessment

The Masters of Education thesis is a 16,000 word dissertation and is the formal assessment task for this unit (together with EDF6031, EDF6032, EDF6033 and EDF6034).

Contact hours

Workload requirement: 24 hrs per week

Prerequisites

Enrolment in the Masters thesis extension 3 will usually occur when, after examination, students require time to make substantial revisions to their theses. A case needs to be made, and with the support of their supervisors, students may enrol in EDF6035 Masters thesis extension 3.