Course unit details:
Science Communication Research Project
| Unit code | HSTM60022 |
|---|---|
| Credit rating | 60 |
| Unit level | FHEQ level 7 – master's degree or fourth year of an integrated master's degree |
| Teaching period(s) | Semester 2 |
| Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
This research project allows students to use skills developed across the taught component of the programme to more independently, under academic supervision, work on an original piece of research. The topic of the project will be related to science and health communication; typical projects focus on mass media, digital media, social media, museums, science centres, science and health in entertainment media, science and/or health policy, and outreach and engagement activities. Research will be undertaken using a variety of methods and techniques drawn from science communication studies such as content analysis, textual and visual analysis, surveys, archival research, and interviews.
Aims
The unit aims to:
- produce an piece of original research based on empirical data, firmly grounded in the primary and secondary literature of science commuincation
- present this research clearly and effectively in the form of a research essay following disciplinary conventions on format and structure
Assessment methods
Research project (12,500 - 15,000 words)
Feedback methods
Students receive written formative feedback on a 1500-word research proposal, and written
summative feedback on the complete dissertation.
Study hours
| Independent study hours | |
|---|---|
| Independent study | 600 |
Teaching staff
| Staff member | Role |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth Toon | Unit coordinator |
| Harriet Palfreyman | Unit coordinator |