BA Classics / Course details

This module is designed to enable students to write a sustained piece of independent research, in the form of the Dissertation, addressing key questions/problems in Archaeology, Classics or Ancient History. Through a series of workshops and case studies, supported by individual tutorials with the Dissertation supervisor, students will be given guidance on appropriate topics, and assistance in framing their research proposal. Workshops will focus on the relationship between concepts, theory and practice, and the ability to synthesise, analyse and critique archaeological information. Advice on time management and accessing resources will also be provided. Supported by supervisions, students will develop confidence in conducting original research, expressing informed opinion and reflecting on the research process. The course will also enhance writing and presentation skills to appropriate academic standards.

Available to all UG programmes administered by Classics, Ancient History, Archaeology and Egyptology.  Required module for all students on Classics, Classical Studies, Ancient History degree programmes. Restricted to Single and Joint Hons/Minor students within CAHAE.

• Enable students to identify a topic for sustained research, independent research
• Develop awareness of the relationship between theoretical frameworks, methods and practice
• Develop research skills, including:
• Identification of research issue/question: define scope and select appropriate research methodology
• Develop ability to retrieve information from a variety of sources: libraries, databases, websites and reports
• Enhance ability to evaluate and critique secondary literature
• Conduct original synthesis of primary evidence
• Evaluate and present results of analysis, in the context of broader research (both in oral and written form)
• Build confidence in expressing opinion, in an informed manner, and reflect on the research process
• Develop awareness of standards of academic presentation

• Demonstrate critical awareness of previous scholarship on the research topic
• Evaluate previous arguments and offer informed opinion
• Engage with primary and secondary data and formulate opinion/argument
• Synthesise and summarise results
• Reflect on their contribution to knowledge and understanding of the past, identifying strengths and weaknesses within their own research

• Conduct independent research and present results in a professional, ethically informed manner (NB plagiarism)
• Present a clear, coherent and logical argument, in relation to an identified research issue or question, both as a formative oral presentation to the supervisor and in final, written summative format
• Present the essay in accordance with appropriate standards of academic referencing, citation and bibliography, annotation, illustration and data analysis (where apposite)

• Plan, conduct and report on research, within a specified timetable, making use of available resources
• Take active responsibility for academic progress and development: identify a programme of work, arrange regular supervisions, reflect on and learn from feedback (both written and oral)
• Make relevant use of research resources, archaeological equipment, collections etc. and utilise them in a safe, approved fashion

• Conduct Ethics and Risk Assessments where necessary
• Make oral presentations utilising visual aids
• Identify skills gaps and seek relevant training and support where necessary
• Conduct themselves as a member of a research community, showing appreciation for research support (through apposite use of communication, letters of permission, and acknowledgements)