Run once, throughout the year

• To enable students to research and present an extended piece of scholarly work on a dance-specific topic, in consultation with a supervisor.
• To provide students with research and key skills training, in line with the Arts and Humanities Research Council’s framework of research training requirements.

• In-depth knowledge of a research question, set of ideas, theories or practices in an area of specific dance interest.
• A thorough understanding of the research context of the project and of trends in the discipline.
• Critical awareness, complex understanding and thorough application of relevant theories and methodologies.
• An in-depth understanding of the nature of argument and evidence, and the relationships between practice, theory and criticism.
• A critical engagement with related disciplines or practice where appropriate.

• Ability to identify, articulate and present (in written, visual and/or performance modes) a dance-specific topic within clearly-defined parameters.
• Ability to use appropriate research methodologies and to present a sound rationale for their application.
• Ability to present research outcomes using appropriate scholarly apparatus and register, together with appropriate documentation.
• Ability to construct, sustain and debate complex arguments and to critique contradictory information.
• Ability to critically evaluate findings to support conclusions and/or recommendations.

• Ability to direct and manage own learning with minimum guidance.
• Ability to locate and use appropriate source materials.
• Ability to engage effectively in a tutorial context and respond professionally to feedback.
• Ability to work independently on drafts of work and/or practical projects and to write up or present a final version in the required format.
• Ability to produce a cogent and coherent piece of work resulting from self-directed research and problem-solving.

The choice of Dissertation topic may arise from a specific dance interest developed through theoretical and/or practical experience in one or more of the taught modules. It is possible for the Dissertation to be part-practical in nature. If this is the case, the written part of the Dissertation will be shorter and may be of a different nature. In all cases, however, the written component must constitute at least 50% of the Dissertation, i.e. 10,000 words or equivalent, and will count for at least half of the marks.

The topic should have appropriate content and parameters, and should be designed to demonstrate the student’s analytical, critical and evaluative skills.

Delivery will vary according to the nature of the selected research topic but all students will be tutored individually during the process of their research and the writing of a Dissertation.

Sources for the Dissertation are topic-specific. Students will be directed to the relevant research materials by the Dissertation supervisor and will be expected to undertake cogent, thorough and critical searches of the available sources. An in-depth critical review of relevant literature and a comprehensive bibliography are integral parts of the Dissertation.

09.01.07