module specification

The aims of this module are to allow the learner to undertake a detailed piece of original research either by the empirical collection of data or an original secondary analysis of existing data.

To build upon experience at undergraduate level and understanding of the research methodologies relevant to human nutrition and/or food science and/or dietetics and to demonstrate application of knowledge and skills developed through their prior study in the respective degrees. This module also aims to provide an opportunity for critical reflection of the research topic and self-reflection of learning, studying and research skills and knowledge.

This module is designed for learners to undertake a substantial piece of research in the nutrition and/or food science and/or dietetics. The research project is intended to build upon the taught modules of the relevant award. The dissertation is designed to demonstrate synthesis of knowledge and skills developed throughout the award. As the largest piece of assessed work undertaken on the award, the dissertation will carry great significance with the assessment board as it will be seen as the clearest expression of the learners’ ability at postgraduate level.

Assessment: Will comprise of project proposal (750 words), Dissertation (8000 words) and a viva voce of 20 minutes where learners will defend their research submission.
To pass the module an aggregate mark of at least 50% must be obtained.

Competence to undertake independent research on a contemporary related to the subject studied within the original award will be developed as follows:
Theoretical research/literature review: (LO 1,4 5,6,and 7)
Advanced information searching, interpretation and abstraction skills will be applied in the production of a theoretical framework. (LO 1, 4, 5,6 and 7)
Ethical approval application (LO 1, 4 and 7)
Experimental skills will be applied in the design and execution of a laboratory or field-based study. Analytical and evaluative skills will be applied to data appraisal and contextualisation.(LO2, 3, 4, 5,6 and 7)
Statistical analysis (LO 3,4,5,6,and 7)
Communication of results( LO 5,6,and 7)
Where relevant to the topic to consider the religious and cultural beliefs and practices that impact on food, nutrition and health as well as consideration of financial/social and environmental circumstances on food production, diet and nutritional intake.(LO1,2,6 and 7)
Written presentation skills will be applied in the production of the project report. Oral presentation skills will be applied in the viva voce (LO 4,5,6 and 7)

This module will require the learner to self-direct and manage their own independent learning experience. The area of research will be matched, as far as is possible with the research interest of the student.
The supervisor may be a member of academic teaching or research staff within the University, or from outside in appropriate organisations where the supervisor is of sufficient academic standing. Topics will be chosen that give the opportunity for high-level research that advances the boundaries of current knowledge but gives the learner a realistic opportunity of completion. A total of 592 hours self-directed study would be typical for this module.
Upon arrangement by the learner, the project supervisor will initially assist in the following processes:
1. clarifying the terms of the research project
2. establishing a timetable for the research and dates for subsequent learner/supervisor meetings
3. directed background reading
4. study design, methodology, ethical approval and statistical analysis
Individual supervisory support will form a key part of the teaching method, but ultimately, most of the learning will be learner-centred. Comments of the draft of the dissertation can be expected.

On successful completion of this module, learners should be able to:
1) Plan and execute a piece of original research relevant to the area depending on the MSc route (Human Nutrition/Food Science/Dietetics).
2) Demonstrate innovation and originality of thought with respect to basic and applied research.
3) Select, execute and interpret appropriate statistical tests at an advanced level of capability using statistical software at an advanced level of competency.
4) Demonstrate an ability for self-managed time in the area of research.
5) Critically interpret and place their own research within the wider context of research within the discipline studied.
6) Write a detailed dissertation in a rigorous scientific manner with correct use of English and defend it.
7) Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the role of research in the academic and professional development of the discipline, the philosophy of research and the function of learned societies and professional bodies.

1. Extensive literature review with evidence of an advanced critical evaluation of earlier related research (LO 5, assessed in dissertation).
2. Clarity of hypothesis formulation and outline of research proposal (LO 1, assessed in project proposal).
3. Design or adoption of relevant research methodology to the problem to be addressed, including its critical evaluation (LO 1, LO 2, assessed in project proposal and in dissertation).
4. Clear management of practical laboratory work or fieldwork (LO 4, assessed by supervisors mark for process).
5. Rigorous demonstration of research findings together with a comprehensive statistical analysis and interpretation (LO 2, LO 3, assessed in dissertation and viva voce).
6. Appropriate discussion of results and relevant and accurate conclusions (LO 2, LO 5, assessed by dissertation and viva voce).
7. Evidence of policy and/or practical implications of findings and the context of the research in general (LO 7, assessed by dissertation and viva voce).
8. Correct use of English, clarity of presentation and appropriate formatting of document (LO 6, assessed in dissertation)

TBC