EDF5741 - Psychology thesis part 1 - 2018

This is a unit of research study focusing on a particular theory, issue, challenge, dilemma, concern or problem in the field of psychology, undertaken with a supervisor. While students are expected to demonstrate initiative and independence, the supervisor offers 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 psychology thesis (both part 1 and part 2) are able to use this 12,000- to 16,000-word study as evidence of independent research experience in an application for entry into the PhD course.

Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

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

In conjunction with EDF5742, the Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology research thesis is a 12,000- to 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.

Minimum total expected workload equals 288 hours per semester.

See also Unit timetable information