EDMAP3-Academic Research and Practice

Module Provider: Institute of Education
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites: EDMAP1 Introduction to Academic Practice EDMAP2 Developing Academic Practice
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: c.e.mccullagh@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module provides an opportunity for students to advance their knowledge and understanding in a specific area of academic practice through a small-scale research project.. This module seeks to recognise the integrated nature of the academic’s role, and as such, students may choose to focus on an area of pedagogic interest, or the organisation, leadership and/or management of professional practice. Dissemination of project outcomes is a requirement of the module, via a number of options to be agreed during the planning stage.

Students are supported during the module by two supervisors: the first, normally a discipline-specific supervisor, agreed with the student; and, the second, the module convenors (or their nominee). The project should be in an area of interest and strategic relevance to the student’s department/school and/or the University, agreed by the supervisors. 

The module enables students to build on the knowledge, skills and understanding developed during EDMAP1 and EDMAP2 by exploring a specific higher education context in greater detail, and by engaging with particular elements of the UK Professional Standards Framework, depending upon area of interest.

Aims:

•To explore good practice, and apply theory to practice, in a specific higher education context

•To develop an argument for a considered and well-informed point of view on a topic, supported by reference to literature

•To consider national and/or University quality assurance and enhancement policies

•To encourage the development of reflective practice leading to continuing professional development and improvement

•To promote engagement with the relevant dimensions of the UKPSF.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On successful completion of the module students should be able to:

• undertake a small-scale research project demonstrating understanding and critical awareness of  current issues in a specific area of interest relating to academic practice


• critically engage with a range of possible methodological approaches to researching the issue with reference to research methods literature


• explore the implications of your findings for your contexts


• critically engage with a range of current and relevant theoretical and/or pedagogical literature to support your research project


• demonstrate the general presentations skills required at level 7 (M level)


• demonstrate engagement with, and understanding of, the relevant dimensions and/or descriptors of the UKPSF

Additional outcomes:

Through the module students will develop a number of non-assessed transferable skills such as: research skills, analysing factors contributing to successful or problematic learning situations, identifying opportunities for innovation where appropriate, writing for a T&L audience and disseminating good practice to colleagues and beyond.

Outline content:
This module enables students to explore a specific area of interest by carrying out a small-scale research project of interest and strategic relevance to their department/school and/or the University. Content will therefore depend upon the specific area chosen.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The research project is supported by two supervisors. Contact time takes the form of one-to-one supervisory meetings.

Please note that the terms indicated in the contact hours are indicative. Students take the module over two terms of their choosing.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

This module is assessed through a small-scale research project relating to academic practice. This is presented in the form of a dissertation, journal publication or other project output (other than a written piece) of 5,000-6,000 words or equivalent, the final format to be agreed with the module convenor during the project planning stage.

A learning needs analysis will be undertaken to identify practical skills support to be provided which will enable completion and dissemination of the project. 

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
50% or above for the dissertation.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-submission within three months of the date results are released.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 6 November 2019