Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This is a self-directed project focusing on issues, challenges, concerns, dilemmas or problems derived from a professional workplace context. Students will need to discuss their professional projects with the appropriate Unit Leader to select and pursue a research project appropriate to their workplace context and unit requirements. Even though the professional project will be self-directed, students will be offered guidance, support and feedback over the course of the project. As there can clearly be no prescribed curriculum, students may be required to participate in small group meetings that may be conducted on or off-campus, or a combination of both.

Objectives

By the completion of this unit students should be able to:

• identify how to understand and examine a particular work place issue or concern;
• use a range of skills in critically examining how to address their issue or concern;
• access research that is relevant to their professional lives and that impacts on their workplace issue or concern;
• identify implications for professional thinking and practice that impact on their specific workplace situation; and
• write about their professional practice for specific purposes and audiences.

Assessment

The Professional Project is the formal assessment task for this unit (6000 words): 100%. Hurdle tasks will include a written project plan and a personal reflection on the process of carrying out the research (2000 words). Students will work with the unit leader to select, research and report an issue related to their professional context. The unit leader will be responsible for supervision and assessment of each Professional Project.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Julie Harrington

Contact hours

Students will work through their project in relation to readings and prompts designed to stimulate their thinking and actions about their professional project.