Module Title:Thesis
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 10
NFQ Level:8
Module Delivered In 1 programme(s)
Teaching & Learning Strategies: The learning outcomes will be achieved through the following teaching methodologies: • Lectures – communication of knowledge and ideas from the lecturer to the learners. • E- learning – The module will be supported by on line learning materials. • Self-Directed independent learning - The programme for the learner is characterised by a high degree of independent learning in consultation with their supervising lecturer. • Tutorials – Learners will be guided through their individual thesis work through tutorial support. • Formative feedback: Formative feedback will be provided on work in progress at key stages throughout the module.
Module Aim: The aim of this module is to guide the learners through the process of writing an honours degree thesis from developing a thesis statement to the presentation of the final document.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Formulate a research proposal appropriate for an Honours Degree thesis in a design related subject area.
LO2 Plan and time manage independent research and present it in a thesis format.
LO3 Locate, record and evaluate a range of primary and secondary research material such as books, reports, peer reviewed journals, etc using a range of library facilities such as catalogues, online databases and the World Wide Web.
LO4 Develop a sustained and coherent argument in a design related subject area supported by critical evaluation, analysis and synthesis of a range of appropriate evidence within a defined word limit.
LO5 Apply the language, styles and conventions of academic writing to their writing. Use quotations and illustrations to support an argument and the Harvard referencing system.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Thesis Proposal Development
The learner will be guided in the preparation of a proposal appropriate for an Honours Degree design thesis. This will include identifying an appropriate framework to structure the thesis, the role of theory and primary analysis, assessing feasibility in terms of time and resources and identification of appropriate resources.
Thesis Research and Writing
Planning and time management, Use of library facilities and evaluating resources, Developing a thesis statement/position, Writing a critical essay, Academic style, Structuring the chapters and discussion, Integrating evidence, Harvard referencing, Thesis presentation, editing and redrafting, Criterion for assessment.
Thesis Supervision
Each learner will be assigned to a design lecturer with whom he/she will meet on a weekly basis for guidance on the preparation of their thesis.
Design Studio
Design Studio - a dedicated space designed to allow for studio based learning. This space is specific to a particular learning group. While used to deliver studio-based education the space is available to be used outside the time frame of the working day. It provides a safe learner driven, peer-reviewed environment, supported on a one-to-one basis. It supports the synthesis of parallel concurrent modular knowledge, skills and competency with prior learning & personal aesthetic judgement, to resolve specific design research question/s.
Computer/Plotters/Printers
Computers/Plotters/Printers – in this year each learner requires the use of a personal computer of suitable specification to run software used on the design programme. There should be access to the internet and the IT Carlow library databases, Blackboard and Turnitin.There should be access to printing and plotting facilities in order to complete final deliverables.
Software
Software on student PCs - Microsoft Office software and a recent version of EndNote referencing software.
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment100.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Essay Thesis Proposal: Topic identification, preliminary research and thesis plan. Formative feedback will be provided to each learner following the assessment procedure. 1,2 5.00 Week 5
Essay Draft Thesis: The draft thesis (5000 words) will be submitted approximately mid-way through the module. Formative feedback will be provided to each learner following the assessment procedure. 1,2,3,4,5 25.00 Week 14
Essay Final Thesis: Between 7000 and 9000 words. 1,2,3,4,5 60.00 Week 26
Other Throughout module, learner awareness, engagement and development of Institutional and sectoral graduate attributes is captured on a Likert Scale range; including module participation, contribution, collaboration, professionalism etc.. 2,5 10.00 Ongoing
No Project
No Practical
No End of Module Formal Examination

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecturer-Supervised Learning (Contact) Every Week 0.25
Assignment Per Semester 10.00
Total Hours 250.25
 

Module Delivered In

Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CW_DHPDI_B Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Product Design Innovation 8 Mandatory