REMDISS30-Spatial Planning Dissertation

Module Provider: Real Estate and Planning
Number of credits: 30 [15 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Richard Nunes
Email: r.j.nunes@henley.reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module brings together teaching and learning across the programme, incorporating taught and assessed research methods.

Aims:

The Real Estate and Planning Dissertation module provides a vehicle for an in-depth understanding of a chosen area of planning, real estate, and rural land and business management practice. Depending on the student's interest, the aim of this module is to enable a student to conduct a substantial and in parts original research study on a relevant topic - selected by the student in consultation with the module convenor and later refined with an assigned supervisor.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Conduct a literature review;

• Select the appropriate research methodology;

• Present results so as to be able to formulate defensible conclusions; and

• Support an argument with citations.

Additional outcomes:

Students will develop an understanding of the research process and the main challenges encountered in undertaking an independent study. Students also have an opportunity to study a relevant subject in greater depth than is normally possible elsewhere in the programme.

Outline content:

• Introduction to the research process


• Literature reviews and styling academic arguments


• Research design and ethics


• Introductions to qualitative and quantitative research methods

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The contact time for the dissertation consists of one introductory lecture and practical classes on research methods, and one to one supervision over the Spring and Summer terms. Students are: 

• Expected to participate in lectures and practical classes, and to work independently on their research project. 


• Encouraged to apply the skills learned during these sessions to the development of a final dissertation. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• Dissertation at a word count of 8,000 words – Submission will be early September 2024. 

Formative assessment methods:

• Research proposal


• Regular supervisory meetings during the Spring and Summer terms. 

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:

The pass mark for the module is 50%

Reassessment arrangements:

Reassessment will be by the same method as for the module’s original assessment requirements, subject to variation by the Examination Board where appropriate.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Printing and Binding

Travel, accommodation and subsistence

Last updated: 30 March 2023