Dissertation (MSc in Language Teaching) (P00356)

? Credit Points : 60 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : EDU-P-DISLTLING

The dissertation (approximately 15000 words) is the outcome of a guided process of research - planning, implementation and writing up - largely carried out in the last three months of the programme. In it, candidates are encouraged to explore links between theory, their own research findings, and the practical realities of their own teaching context. Examples of possible dissertation topic areas are:
- evaluation of teaching materials on paper and/or in observed use
- pedagogical description of a specific language area for a specific learner group
- case studies of classes or learners
- needs analysis for teaching a language for specific purposes
- test evaluation and design.
Training and preparation for undertaking the dissertation will be provided, mainly during semester 1, in the form of a combination of lectures, workshops and on-line learning, covering:
- an overview of the main kinds of research and their appropriateness to different kinds of investigation
- techniques and instruments of research
- guidance on library research and conventions of academic writing.
Students receive individual guidance in preparing and implementing their research plans.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Research (EDU), (The Moray House School of Education, Schedule C)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Full Year (Blocks 1-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 1 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

? Other Required Attendance : 1 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

In their work on the dissertation, participants will demonstrate:
- appropriate use of skills in library and electronic resource research;
- knowledge and understanding, at a basic level, of a range of research paradigms and research instruments;
- ability to apply the above knowledge and understanding in the evaluation of published research and in the design and implementation of their own research, paying due attention to the fit between context, purpose, paradigm and instrument;
- ability to produce academic writing of an acceptable standard.