Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Arts and Humanities

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Project Preparation

• Unit Code

  CCA6150

• Year

  2016

• Enrolment Period

  2

• Version

  1

• Credit Points

  20

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  Online

Description

This unit is the first stage in the preparation of a project submission. Students will develop a range of skills and knowledge necessary for independent project work. These include an understanding of the role of supervision, the phases of project development, the acquisition of research skills, the processes of research, such as formulating research questions, finding an appropriate methodology and writing a literature review, the management of time and resources and the responsibilities involved in independent project activity.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Select and develop a suitable topic for a project and formulate research questions, demonstrating a knowledge of research principles, ethics, methods and trends.
2. Find an appropriate methodology in order to investigate, execute and report on a professional project.
3. Write a literature review, comprehensively analysing the background theories, approaches and strategies relevant to the project.
4. Develop appropriate bibliographic skills necessary to successfully plan and execute a professional project.

Unit Content

1. Choosing an appropriate methodology.
2. Conducting research in an academic environment.
3. Online and other resources for research and inquiry.
4. Responsibilities involved in project activities, e.g ethics clearance.
5. Selecting a suitable topic and supervisor.
6. Writing a literature review.

Additional Learning Experience Information

Tutorials and seminars.

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Due to the professional competency skill development associated with this Unit, student attendance/participation within listed in-class activities and/or online activities including discussion boards is compulsory. Students failing to meet participation standards as outlined in the unit plan may be awarded an I Grade (Fail - incomplete). Students who are unable to meet this requirement for medical or other reasons must seek the approval of the unit coordinator.

Text References

• Oliver, P. (2012). Succeeding with your literature review: A handbook for students. Maidenhead, United Kingdom: Open University Press.
• Morely-Warner, T. (2009). Academic writing is... A guide to writing in a university context. Sydney, Australia: Association for Academic Language in Teaching.
• Machi, L., & McEvoy, B. (2012). The literature review: Six steps to success. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
• Cottrell, S. (2013). The study skills handbook. (4^th ed.). Basingstoke, United Kingdom: Palgrave Macmillan.
• American Psychological Association. (2010). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association. (6th ed.). Washington, DC: APA.
• Weeakkody, N. (2015).  Research methods for media and communication. (2^nd ed.).  London, United Kingdom: Oxford.
• Davies, M. B. (2014). Doing a successful research project. London, United Kingdom: Palgrave MacMillan.