Systematic Literature Review Dissertatio (937C8)
Systematic Literature Review Dissertation
Module 937C8
Module details for 2025/26.
60 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
The literature review-based dissertation module is a comprehensive, research-intensive component that challenges you to deeply engage with existing scholarly works in the chosen area of psychological study. This module is designed to develop advanced critical thinking, analytical, and synthesis skills by guiding students to critically examine and integrate a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and other relevant sources.
Throughout the module, students are expected to identify and define a specific psychological research question or problem, demonstrating a thorough understanding of its context and significance within the broader field. The literature review forms the backbone of the dissertation, requiring students to methodically search, select, and appraise relevant research, while critically analysing themes, methodologies, findings, and theoretical frameworks. This process not only acquaints students with the current state of research in their chosen topic, but also helps them identify gaps in existing knowledge and potential avenues for future research.
Emphasis is placed on developing a coherent, logically structured narrative that weaves together various strands of research into a comprehensive overview. Students learn to balance the presentation of data with critical interpretation, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates their ability to engage with complex ideas and contribute meaningfully to academic discussions in psychology. This module is essential for those aiming to pursue further research or a professional career in psychology, providing a solid foundation in literature analysis and academic writing.
Full Module Description
The literature review-based dissertation module is a comprehensive, research-intensive component that challenges you to deeply engage with existing scholarly works in the chosen area of psychological study. This module is designed to develop advanced critical thinking, analytical, and synthesis skills by guiding students to critically examine and integrate a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and other relevant sources.
Throughout the module, students are expected to identify and define a specific psychological research question or problem, demonstrating a thorough understanding of its context and significance within the broader field. The literature review forms the backbone of the dissertation, requiring students to methodically search, select, and appraise relevant research, while critically analysing themes, methodologies, findings, and theoretical frameworks. This process not only acquaints students with the current state of research in their chosen topic, but also helps them identify gaps in existing knowledge and potential avenues for future research.
Emphasis is placed on developing a coherent, logically structured narrative that weaves together various strands of research into a comprehensive overview. Students learn to balance the presentation of data with critical interpretation, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates their ability to engage with complex ideas and contribute meaningfully to academic discussions in psychology. This module is essential for those aiming to pursue further research or a professional career in psychology, providing a solid foundation in literature analysis and academic writing.
Module learning outcomes
Critically evaluate and integrate diverse psychological research, identifying key theories and methodologies while highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the literature.
Articulate a significant research question or problem in psychology, demonstrating an understanding of its relevance and grounding in existing knowledge.
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding deep understanding of various research methodologies in psychology, with the competence to critically assess their application and effectiveness in addressing specific research questions.
Master scholarly writing in psychology, presenting complex research in a clear, concise, and structured manner, adhering to academic standards and effectively communicating the research narrative.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Dissertation (8000 words) | Summer Vacation Week 13 Thu 16:00 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11110000000 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11111000000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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