Accredited Level 3 Postgraduate Research Techniques Diploma

Introduction

This Quality Assured, Level 3: Diploma in Postgraduate Research Techniques; will assist any researcher who is embarking on an empirical research project. Although, it has been written to assist Postgraduates, it is also suitable for those undertaking research projects; guided study; independent projects at level three and above.

The course will teach the student the many and varied skills that underpin good research, from the preparation of the research plan; primary and secondary sources; qualitative or quantitative methodology; how to interpret literature and bring your findings into a meaningful analysis and draw appropriate conclusions. In doing so, the course draws on the theoretical models currently used in academic research and beyond.

Learning Aims

The Learning programme for the student, offers choice and scope in regards to the greater understanding of good research techniques. The core aims of the diploma are to:

• Specifically offers the student a theoretical academic approach to the understanding research skills through a robust programme of learning that will enhance academic rigour towards producing professional project papers; dissertations and thesis’.
• The Diploma Postgraduate Research Techniques, encourages students to: develop their competence, and enthusiasm for, a rigorous study of good research techniques that can easily transferred into academic and professional papers/presentations.

Learning Objectives

• Students will have an opportunity to study aspects of research theory and practices that will improve current skills and empirical data gathering.
• To undertake a broader study of the subject of research, through the selection of a variety of topics: reviewing literature; understanding methodologies; qualitative vs quantitative; application and analysis of findings and much more.
• Some prior knowledge of undertaking research is recommended, or experience in an organisation that undertakes research projects. However, the opportunity is provided for candidates who have studied a social science or humanities subject at Foundation or Degree; GCE; IGCSE (either as a Full or Short Course) to build on knowledge, understanding and skills gained at that level. Or simply starting from a point of wanting to enhance professional skills.
• The course encourages students to develop the critical, analytical and evaluative skills which will enable them to either go on to/remain in, Higher Education to further their education through undertaking formal research at postgraduate levels.

This course consists of Ten Units and is a qualification awarded by Oxford Learning College, in its own right; with the quality assurance of a leading awarding body (CIE Global) that hallmarks this professional qualification.

Assessment Objectives (AO)

AO: 1

Students must select and demonstrate clearly relevant knowledge and understanding through the use of evidence, examples and correct language and terminology appropriate to the course of study. In addition, for synoptic assessment, students should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the connections between different elements of their course of study. This assessment, involves two written assignments: one halfway through the course and following the final unit. Both are assessed and graded by the assigned tutor, according to college procedures.

AO: 2

Students must critically evaluate and justify a point of view through the use of evidence and reasoned argument. In addition, for synoptic assessment, students should relate elements of their course of study to their broader context and to aspects of spiritual human experience.

Quality of Written Communication (QWC)

In addition, OLC require students to produce written material in English, candidates must: ensure that text is legible and that spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPG) are accurate so that meaning is clear; select and use a form and style of writing appropriate to purpose and to complex subject matter; organise information clearly and coherently, using specialist vocabulary when appropriate. In this Specification, SPG will be assessed in all tutor marked assignments (TMAs)

To ensure that we maintain quality standards; all our students written assignments are subject to our plagiarism policy and procedure.

Key Features

OLC offer the opportunity to learn research skills as a professional level 3 validated diploma course. The student will learn and/or review the many techniques of good research; be able to apply and use that gained knowledge in either: education or a research project.

This course has several features:

• To develop a comprehensive understanding of good research skills.
• To treat the subject as a professional discipline, providing the academic knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate for specialist research study.
• To teach students an enquiring, reflective and critical approach to the study of presenting good research papers at an academic or associate arena.
• To encourage students to reflect on their own professional development and practice.