Module manager: Dr Ian Sapiro
Email: i.p.sapiro@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is not approved as a discovery module
On this module you will identify, plan and execute an independent research project of an appropriate scale and scope, in consultation with an academic supervisor. You’ll be supported to hone your critical research skills, as you take the final steps within your programme to becoming a fully independent researcher.
The module aims to foster in you a strong identity as an independent researcher through a supervised project of your own devising. You will engage critically with research sources and may, depending on the scope of your project, undertake primary and/or empirical research. You will be confident in your handling and use of research materials and data (understood broadly) in the pursuit of independent findings, and communicate these findings in a manner appropriate to the discipline.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Conceive and plan a project in a focussed area of study in consultation with an academic tutor;
2. Execute an independent research project of an appropriate scope and complexity for a given timescale;
3. Identify appropriate methodologies to apply within the project.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Time management, particularly the ability to balance deadlines and organise activities within a large project.
5. Independence, and the ability to set agendas and lead a project.
6. Communication skills appropriate to the dissemination of ideas and of completed projects and outcomes.
The syllabus is defined by the objectives. The project is chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 6 | 0.5 | 3 |
| Lecture | 9 | 1 | 9 |
| Seminar | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Private study hours | 387 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 13 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 400 | ||
Formative feedback points are embedded in the module structure, and are (currently):
- Interim Report (1000 words), mid-way through semester 1
- Presentation (10 minutes), end of semester 1
- Draft Chapter, early in semester 2
Progress is monitored through supervision meetings, spaced to work alongside the formative submissions and feedback.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Dissertation | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 10/03/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team