Department of Economics, Unit Catalogue 2009/10 |
ES50063: Economics postgraduate dissertation preparation (formerly EC50176) |
 Credits:
| 0 |
| Level:
| Masters |
| Period: | Semester 2 |
| Assessment:
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| Supplementary Assessment: | Reassessment not allowed |
| Requisites:
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| Description: | Aims: To ensure students on the taught economics p/g programmes are better prepared for their dissertations. To develop skills in formulating a research synopsis containing a clear research question and with plans for a possible answer; to develop skills in obtaining and organising suitable data, identifying appropriate analytical techniques and locating appropriate literature for a dissertation. Learning Outcomes: By the end of the unit students should have a deeper and more critical understanding of how to formulate and develop an original research question. They should also have improved their skills in researching and critically appraising possible research topics. Skills: Ability to formulate a research question, then develop an original & coherent answer (T/F) Ability to analyse and manage data and conduct appropriate bibliographical searches. (T/F) To demonstrate how econometric and economic theory can be applied in the context of specific problems. (T/F) Ability to produce work to agreed specifications and deadlines (T/F) Ability to work independently, without close supervision of guidance (T/F). Content: 1. Introduction 2. Choosing and Developing a Topic * Identifying a Researchable Question * Preliminary Reading * Planning and undertaking a Literature Review * Sources of Data and Other Primary Material 3. Finding a Supervisor * Initial Contact * Final Allocation * Supervisor's Role * Dealing with Supervisory Problems 4. The Dissertation * Title Form and Ethical Statement * Presentation, Format and Binding * Title Page and Outline Contents * Plagiarism, Acknowledging Sources and Referencing Conventions * Additional Links for Information on Dissertation Research and Dissertation Writing 5. Dissertation Outline and Research Plan * Dissertation Outline and Research Plan * Outline of Proposed Research * Research Plan and Resources Needed 6. Concluding Comments * Key Dates for 2006-07 * Review Questions. |