At Bangor research skills are an essential element of the degree programmes and
the research project is the crux of the degree. It takes place at level 3 and
carries 40 credits - a third of level 3. We start teaching research skills from
day one and research skills (cognititve and otherwise) are integrated throughout
all modules. There are specific research skills modules at level 1 (20 credits)
and level 2 (20 credits). At level 2 (second semester) students work on a
project proposal (10 credits) which they have to pass in order to go onto the
level 3 project ( the alternative at the moment at level 3 if they fail their
proposal is a 20 credit dissertation and 20 extra credits of taught modules).
The research project and proposal together involve the whole research process -
from identification of a question to reporting the results at a student
conference and in a final report. As they are well-prepared for the project and
have had an opportunity to practice every element of it (including the time
management element) they love it - best bit of the degree for most of them. The
staff are also well-practiced at providing a supportive system to make sure that
the project happens according to plan or that the student has the opportunity to
get him/herself organised.
The iterative practice, from the beginning of the degree is, we feel, the
essential element of its success as students are focused in on research from the
beginning and excited at the prospect of studying something that is very
relevant to them personally.
If you would like further information about this, please contact me directly.
Best wishes
Della Fazey
D.M.A.Fazey [log in to unmask]
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