This module requires students to complete an individual research project on a subject of their choice. It enables students to demonstrate their ability to design, manage, and execute a programme of independent research. Students can develop research projects that follow-up on an issue identified while on a placement year (if applicable), or they can develop a specialised study in a particular field (e.g. urban design, regeneration, housing etc.). Students are expected to undertake independent inquiry and investigation, with the support of an allocated academic supervisor. The project is a substantial piece of work and will be assessed as an important, individual component of final year undergraduate studies.

The assessment of the module takes the form of one written submission. Since ethical research conduct is a foundational element of any research project, the university requires that an (unmarked) ethics approval submission is also successfully completed before undertaking fieldwork, and therefore to pass the module.

1. Show a clear understanding and knowledge of urban development and planning through evidence of engagement with the spatial, social, and / or institutional contexts of the research;
2. Demonstrate an ability to design and execute an independent and original research project;
3. Exhibit in-depth understanding of a specialised area of urban development and planning, identifying the limits of existing knowledge on the subject, and the potential for further research;
4. Illustrate critical engagement with the merits and deficiencies of their selected topic by reaching justified conclusions and making recommendations for policy and/or practice change in that area;
5. Show competence in communicating research findings, drawing conclusions and (where relevant) making appropriate research, policy and/or practice recommendations  
6. Show knowledge and understanding of professional values and behaviour, such as research ethics and working in a professional capacity with an allocated supervisor

The module will be delivered through lectures and seminars, in-person and on campus unless mitigating circumstances arise. Seminars will enable small group discussion about key issues relevant to the module. Students are expected to engage with additional module content on Learning Central e.g. readings or other material, to prepare for lectures and seminars, and to supplement and deepen taught components.

Skills/Presentation:
 

1. ability to identify, collect and analyse relevant primary and/or secondary data;
2. ability in effective written and visual communications, to present arguments and illustrate findings;
3. ability to define and defend clear and focussed research questions, and related aims and objectives;
4. ability to demonstrate effective research and appraisal skills, evident in data collection, quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis, and the reaching of appropriate conclusions;
5. successful management of an independent, small-scale research project;
6. organisation and structuring of a complex document;
7. understanding, and assessment of ethical issues related to a research project

Values/Attitudes:

1. display an awareness of the principles of ethical research conduct
2. appreciation of the merits of adopting a critical and questioning approach to existing knowledge and research conduct;
3. appreciation of the contribution research can make to improved subject knowledge and understanding, by reflecting upon the value of the research undertaken.

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment takes place throughout the module.  There are learning checks in every lecture and the workshops which support the assessment provide an opportunity for peer to peer and lecturer feedback.

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:

Re-assessment

Students are permitted to be reassessed in a module which they have failed, in line with University regulations. https://intranet.cardiff.ac.uk/staff/teaching-and-supporting-students/teaching-support/academic-regulations. You will only be reassessed on the components of the module in which you have failed. The format of the reassessment will be the same as the original assessment and will take place in the Summer re-sit period.

Data Collection and Ethical Approval

Where appropriate students will conduct their own data collection or analyse existing data set(s). The nature of the data to be collected and analysed will depend upon the student’s conceptual and methodological approach and whether appropriate ethical approval has been obtained. Ethical approval from the School Research Ethics Committee must be obtained for all forms of primary data collection. This will involve discussing the ethics of your research with your supervisor, who will advise you on how to complete the necessary paperwork. The paperwork will need to be submitted for final approval by the School Research Ethics Committee. The ethical approval process, including completing and submitting paperwork, is explained in detail during the module.

YOU CANNOT COLLECT ANY PRIMARY DATA / SOCIAL MEDIA DATA UNTIL YOU HAVE OBTAINED ETHICAL APPROVAL FROM THE SCHOOL RESEARCH ETHICS COMMITTEE.

The ethical approval process will take time and you are strongly recommended to adhere to the timetable outlined by the module leader to ensure that you are not delayed in collecting your data. Any delays may affect the quality of your data and hence the standard of your dissertation and the mark you receive.

Syllabus content typically includes

• Introduction to doing a research project
• Working effectively with an academic supervisor
• Identifying a suitable topic for research
• Preparing a literature review
• Managing your research project
• Handling and analysing your data
• Writing and structuring your research project
• Developing your conclusions and recommendations

• Preparing the final submission