module specification

This dissertation allows students to demonstrate and develop the core objectives of the MA in Safeguarding and Security MA degree by completing an independent research project.  The research project should be based on and developed around a relevant substantive topic to be chosen by the student and authorised by the dissertation supervisor. The research must be grounded in the appropriate conceptual frameworks and debates addressed across course modules and demonstrate an in-depth critical awareness of contemporary safeguarding policies and practice.  The dissertation must also demonstrate evidence of the student’s capability to produce independent research that reflects a high level of knowledge and skills. The dissertation process and workshops provide an environment for students to further develop and apply academic skills acquired on the MA Safeguarding and Security degree course. These stand alongside a range of transferable skills that can be deployed in professional environments and contribute to the student’s future role as a reflexive practitioner in safeguarding and/or related positions and in terms of their performance in performing associated responsibilities of care and security.

Students are required to:

1. In agreement with their supervisor choose a topic for research and will make a formal dissertation plan.

2. Submit a formal proposal

3. Attend dissertation workshops as required

4. Have at least four meetings with their supervisor to review progress, plan future work and set an agenda for future meeting(s)

5. Submit the completed dissertation by the relevant deadline and in accordance with the formal dissertation requirements

LO1 to LO7

During the early stages of the dissertation, seminars and workshops will help to familiarise students with the aims and methodology of the dissertation. In addition, sessions will be held with library staff. The supervisor will provide guidance and advice in regular one to one tutorial sessions or via email/telephone.

Students can select their own research topic, but this is subject to authorization of the module leader. Students will be required to submit a formal dissertation proposal on an agreed date. Once this has been approved, students will be allocated a dissertation tutor and for the
remainder of the supervision of the dissertation will be conducted on an individual basis. It is expected that pertinent knowledge and skills gained in other course modules will be reflected in the dissertation.

This module programme requires a high degree of responsibility and autonomy from the student in the planning and completion of the task. Students will receive a dissertation booklet early in the programme and will be required to complete a proposal form followed by a literature review draft on which they will receive written feedback. Student and supervisor will meet on a regular basis for discussion on objectives and progression.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

LO1. Formulate and develop a research question and a clear set of research objectives

LO2. Collect, organise and present a comprehensive range of relevant literature and background information as a demonstration of their knowledge of their topic.

LO3. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of theoretical frameworks and core concepts relating to the topic.

LO4. Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of research methodologies.

LO5. Deploy a range of critical analytical skills in relation to their research findings.

LO6. Exercise self-direction throughout the research process.

LO7. Communicate their research findings in a scholarly and accessible format.

The students are assessed by their supervisor on a continual basis, taking into account the student’s ability as a researcher, the ability to plan and reflect upon his/her work, and the level of initiative.  The proposal and literature review will be used to provide formative feedback with the latter including summative assessment. The final dissertation (12-15,000 words) is assessed independently by at least one member of university staff, excluding the supervisor. In awarding a mark the examiner will take into account the achievement of the student in terms of the results obtained, the clarity of presentation and layout, and the standard of the discussion including the student’s consideration of the wider context of the investigation. An overall aggregate mark of 50% or more is required to pass the module.

Marking will assess:

• clarity of objectives
• organisation and presentation of ideas
• research skills
• application of theory to real case studies
• conclusions

Core Texts:

Bell, J. (2005) Doing Your Research Project: A guide for first-time researches in education, health and social science [4th edn]. Milton Keynes: Open University Press.
Hart, C. (2018) Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Research Imagination,.London: Sage
Silverman D. [ed] (2004) Qualitative Research: Theory, Method and Practice [2ndedn]. London: Sage
Mason, J. (2017) Qualitative Researching. London: Sage.
Swetnam, D. (2004),Writing your dissertation: how to plan, prepare and present successful work. Oxford: How to Books

Additional readings:

Olofsson, A. and Zinn, J. (2018) Researching Risk and Uncertainty: Methodologies, Methods and Research Strategies. London: Palgrave.
Blyth, M., Solomon, E. and Baker, K. (2007) Young People and Risk. Bristol: Policy.
Liamputtong, P. (2006) Researching the Vulnerable: A Guide to Sensitive Research Methods. London: Sage.
Davis, P. (2004) Victimisation: Theory, Research and Policy. London: Palgrave.