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

The Psychology thesis is a research study, focusing on a particular theory, issue, challenge, dilemma, concern or problem in the field of psychology, undertaken with a supervisor. While students will be expected to demonstrate initiative and independence, the supervisor will offer guidance, support and feedback over the course of the research. The thesis is especially important for students who are intending to undertake further higher degree studies. Graduates who have successfully completed the Psych Thesis (both part 1 and part 2) 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 EDF6536 Psychology thesis part 2), students should be able to produce a thesis that displays competence in understanding and carrying out research in the field of psychology, 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

In conjunction with EDF6536 the Master of Psychology research thesis is a 9,000 - 16,000 word research project. The format of the research project must comply with the options as set out in the APAC Accreditation Standards research requirements for postgraduate coursework degrees at the time of commencing in the research.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr John Roodenburg

Contact hours

24 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must successfully complete coursework units. However, students may, with the written agreement of the course adviser, undertake a thesis before completing all the coursework requirements.