DCU Home | Our Courses | Loop | Registry | Library | Search DCU

Module Specifications..

Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024

Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title MAP Dissertation
Module Code CM572
School School of Communications
Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Kevin Rafter
Semester 2: Kevin Rafter
Autumn: Kevin Rafter
Module TeachersKevin Rafter
Alessio Cornia
NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 30
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Repeat the module
Resubmit full dissertation
Description

To prepare and write a substantial and original piece of independent academic research in the area of political communication.

Learning Outcomes

1. show proficiency in the planning of an extended, systematically developed research project, worked upon independently, incorporaing insights gained from taught modules;
2. demonstrate the ability to work on a research project over an extended period of time, with the guidance of a supervisor;
3. demonstrate the ability to collect, sort and analyse insights and perspectives gleaned from a literature review;
4. identify the ways in which a suitable research methodology must be selected and applied to individual research projects;
5. critically analyse the most appropriate ways to integrate theoretical perspectives already acquired into the pursuit of new empirical data appropriate to the dissertation.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Seminars25Introduction to writing an academic thesis; overview of DCU thesis procedures and guidelines; class presentation on selected topic.
Lecture35Research supervision
Independent Study690Research and writing
Seminars24Introduction to writing an academic thesis; overview of DCU thesis procedures and guidelines; class presentation on selected topic.
Total Workload: 774

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction to writing an academic thesis; overview of DCU thesis procedures and guidelines

Research supervision

Research and writing

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Thesis20,000 word dissertation100%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 2
Indicative Reading List

  • Zina O'Leary: 2017, The Essential Guide to Doing Your Research Project, 3rd, Sage, 9781473952089
  • Deacon, D. Pickering, M. Golding, P. and Murdock, G. (eds): 2010, Researching Communications A Practical Guide to Methods in Media and Cultural Analysis, 2nd, Bloombury, London,
  • Hansen, A. Cottle, S. Negrine, R. and Newbold, C.: 2008, Mass Communication Research Methods, Palgrave Macmillan, London,
  • McQuail, D.: 2010, Mass Communication Theory, 6th, Sage, London,
  • Krippendorff, K.: 2004, Content Analysis An Introduction to its Methodology, 2nd, Sage, London,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
MAPPMA Political Communication
Date of Last Revision04-FEB-11
Archives:

My DCU | Loop | Disclaimer | Privacy Statement