Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2016 - 2017

Module Title
Module Code
School
Online Module Resources
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	25
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

Students will either, prepare and write a substantial and original piece of independent academic research in the area of Public Relations OR plan and complete a substantial practical Public Relations project. In first weeks of the second semester each student will present work in progress to the class for discussion and receive feedback from students and the module co-ordinator. Each student, working in tandem with the module co-ordinator and individual project supervisors, will submit the completed project / dissertation at the end of May.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate the ability to collect, sort and analyse insights and perspectives gleaned from a literature review.
2. Identify the ways in which a suitable research methodology must be selected and applied to individual research projects.
3. Demonstrate a sound grasp of the theoretical principles underpinning a defined area of Public Relations and communications.
4. Demonstrate a capacity for original thought, logical argument and the ability to discuss objectively and rigorously.
5. Show proficiency in the planning of an extended, systematically developed research project, worked upon independently, incorporating insights gained from taught modules, with the guidance of a supervisor.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Directed learning	20	Regular meetings with project advisor
Independent Study	150	Reading and preparation of literature review.
Directed learning	5	Library instruction on aspects of research.
Independent Study	400	Independent project work undertaken by student (research, analysis and writing).
Assignment Completion	50	Preparation of research proposal.
Total Workload: 625

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
Overview of the research process. Critically analyse and discuss existing literature relevant to the chosen topic.

Develop a Research Project
Develop research questions, aims, objectives and statements. Select appropriate methodologies and method rationale. Implement time management.

Literature Review
Conduct a review of the published material relating to the chosen topic, creating a foundation for the dissertation or project.

Data Analysis
Undertake a systematic analysis of data.

Conclusions
Draw appropriate conclusions. Identify areas for further research and the limitations associated with his/her dissertation or report. Develop a reflective account of the research process.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	%	Examination Weight	%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement
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
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

Denscombe. M.: 2014, The Good Research Guide, 5th, Open University Press,
Furseth, I. & Everett, E.: 2013, Doing Your Masters Dissertation, Sage,
Thomas, G.: 2013, How to do Your Research, Sage,
Kumar, R.: 2013, Research Methodology, Sage,
Schreier, M.: 2012, Qualitative Content Analysis, Sage,
Easterby-Smith, Thornhill, R. & Loww: 2001, Management Research: An Introduction (SAGE series in Management Research), Sage,
Walliman, N.: 2005, Your Research Project: A Step-by-Step Guide for the First-Time Researcher, 2nd, Sage,

Other Resources

23447, Web site, 2009, DCU Library guide to citation, Dublin, DCU, http://www.library.dcu.ie/citing&refquide08.pdf, 23448, Web site, 2009, Online guide to avoiding plagiarism, Cardiff University, https://ilrb.cf.ac.uk/plagiarism/tutorial/index.html,

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