Dissertation/Applied Research Project

This Applied Research Project or Dissertation module provides the mechanism for learners on the Master of Science in Outdoor Education, Sustainability and Wellbeing to carry out an in-depth, independent investigation, analysis and presentation of a research topic, research driven intervention and/or innovation related to one or more of the three core themes of the programme: connection and interdependence of the biosphere (sustainability); the role of place and connectedness with place (place and landscape) and the importance of nature and the diversity of its experiences for wellbeing (wellbeing).

In addition, as this dissertation module has been designed as a mechanism to consolidate the learning across the three strands of this programme, if the learner's research investigation focuses specifically on one of the three thematic areas, it is a requirement that adequate reference to, and integration of the two other programme thematic areas be substantiated within the dissertation. 

This Applied Research Project or Dissertation module requires the learner to conceptualise, design, conduct, analyse and formally write up, then visually / orally present a substantial applied research project or research driven innovation/intervention to postgraduate research standard. The objective of this module specification is to provide a structured pathway to support students through a process of systematic investigation and applied, scholarly work and develop their capability to conduct an independent, ethically compliant, critically evaluated research investigation. Learners are expected to engage with research projects or innovative interventions which are relevant and applicable to the thematic strands of this programme, as outlined above.

1. Articulate advanced knowledge and understanding of a research topic / research driven practice-based intervention and or innovation within the thematic areas of the programme. 

2. Structure research work to a timeline, collaborating effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with their dissertation supervisor/ intervention mentor.

3. Critically evaluate and apply a complex and specialised range of research design, data collection, data analysis techniques and investigative skills (such as fieldwork, interviews, questionnaires and quantitative techniques), relevant to the thematic areas of sustainability, place and landscape and well-being.

4. Formally present an in-depth critical review of professional and academic literature related to the research or intervention topic.

5. Defend decisions related to theoretical and practical research design and implementation choices, justifying these with reference to ethical and regulatory considerations and, where applicable, potential or perceived organisational, environmental and/or societal impact.

6. Present, to the appropriate scholarly standard, a robust, independently produced and critically evaluated, written research dissertation or formally structured report.

7. Formally present and defend research and/or intervention findings, drawing conclusions and delivering recommendations, having due regard to potential individual, societal, environmental and/ or organisational impacts of the investigation and with reference to the three thematic strands of the programme.