Type of module:

Summary module description:

A dissertation project is an independent piece of research work in MSc programme pathway in Information Management and Digital Business (Digital Health and Data Analytics). It is closely linked with practical health related organisations for students to understand real health and data analytics scenarios in practice in collaboration with NHS hospitals and organisations in integrated care system (primary and social care, clinical commission group, local government) and related commercial companies. It is considered to be the most important element in this programme pathway as it demonstrates the knowledge and skills acquired both in terms of the subject area and academic research. It is normally conducted by an individual student guided by an academic supervisor in the chosen specialised domain. It gives students the opportunity to undertake a substantial applied research project which draws the prior knowledge and many skills acquired from the past experience and during the taught part of the MSc programme, enables students to practise writing a scientific report, allows students to develop problem-solving skills, and enables students to manage research activities and critically assess the outcomes from the project. 

Aims:

The aim of the module is to enable the student to conduct research and apply the knowledge into practice through an independent project. The student should show a detailed understanding of health system, digital technology and modern data analytics to solve real-world problem. This will involve a joint project design and problem identification with NHS and health related public/private organisations, a survey of recent developments in the field, a critical analysis of these developments and a prognosis of future developments.  

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module the student will be able to: 

• Identify challenges and opportunities in research areas of health system, digital technology and data analytics from NHS and health related public/private organisations 


• Develop an understanding of the research topic subject matter 


• Develop and acquire new skills in conducting research 


• Plan and manage a systematic approach to a research project 


• Develop a research proposal 


• Carry out a literature review 


• Critically approach a research problem 


• Develop a solution to a given research problem 


• Evaluate the solution and provide a critical appraisal 


• Derive logical conclusions 


• Produce a dissertation 


• Present the work in form of oral presentation 

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The dissertation normally commences with sessions during the Spring Term covering research methods, based on which a research proposal is developed. The sessions will include topic selection, literature review, research methods, evaluation approach, and writing a research proposal. The topic is normally proposed by the student and developed in consultation with the appointed supervisor and the collaborating NHS and related public/private organisation.  

The research work must be conducted in an ethical and professional manner. The text of the dissertation would not normally exceed 12,000 words but it may be supported by ancillary material. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The dissertation project is normally conducted by an individual student guided by a supervisor. The student is expected to have regular meetings with the supervisor and contact with other members of staff, where appropriate, with expertise in the chosen research field. There is an opportunity to give an oral presentation at an interim stage to seek for feedback from staff and peers. 

Students may carry out their dissertation projects in organisations as part of placement or internship of up to six months in duration. The placement needs to be arranged by students and requires an approval by the Programme Director who ensures that the placement enables the students to satisfy the academic requirements of Dissertation. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:

None.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Assessment will consist of Dissertation (90%) due in week 53, and presentation (10%) to take place in week 43. The presentation assesses the student’s presentation skills. 

Formative assessment methods:

Students receive feedback from their project supervisors during supervision meetings. They will also receive comments and feedback from the audience at the oral presentation reporting on progress of research normally organised around two months before the dissertation deadline. 

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:

Students will be required to obtain a mark of 50% overall through weighted average of the two components. 

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of dissertation.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2019