Units
Independent Study
Unit code: HLN701
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
Independent Study allows students to study a topic which is not otherwise available as a formal unit. Students have the opportunity to pursue their studies relatively independently and to develop and practice skills in problem identification, evaluation and/or critical thinking. The study may be for example a critical literature review, an examination of guidelines or an evaluation. The process and outcomes are negotiated in a contract with a supervisor.
Availability
| Semester | Available |
|---|---|
| 2013 Semester 2 | Yes |
| 2013 Summer | Yes |
Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013
Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.
Rationale
The development of critical appraisal skills is essential for students undertaking postgraduate study. This unit provides an opportunity to investigate a relevant topic in your area of study. In the process of identifying, gathering and analysing up-to-date relevant literature, you will strengthen skills in the synthesis of information and report writing relevant to your field.
Aims
This unit aims to develop critical appraisal skills in gathering and analysis of up to date research literature, within the deeper exploration of a relevant topic to a field of study.
Objectives
1. Critically appraise current research literature in your field of scholarship
2. Synthesise and analyse information to construct emergent knowledge
3. Apply cognitive, technical, creative and academic communication skills to a professionally oriented inquiry process
4. Present a well-reasoned, logical and coherent argument
Content
The content covered will vary according to interests of students and expertise of supervisors. The student is expected to work independently on the project during the 13 week semester for approximately 12 hours per week, or equivalent.
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
Prior to enrolling in this unit, students MUST contact the Unit Coordinator to discuss supervision and expectations of enrolment.
Approaches to teaching and learning
Independent Study requires time management and self discipline. The research area selected is to be discussed with supervising staff. This partnership is critical to the collaborative and supportive path. Students should meet regularly with their supervisor and are advised when necessary to attend the Advanced Information Retrieval Skills workshop organised through the library.
Assessment
General assessment information
Regular meetings (or communication) with your supervisor are to be used to critically discuss your approaches to the topic and your questions answered.Ongoing formative assessment will be provided via regular meetings (or communication) with your supervisor to outline progress and ensure objectives are met.
Assessment name:
Report (draft)
Description:
In consultation with your supervisor, you are required to source and appraise current literature relevant to the negotiated topic and prepare and submit a coherent report. Approx. 5000 words. Criteria set in consultation with supervisor.
Part A: Week 6 Draft Report. Topic, rationale for choosing the topic, chapter outline, detailed literature search methodology, criteria for selecting literature to review, initial list of references to be considered. 40%
Relates to objectives:
1-4
Weight:
40%
Internal or external:
Both
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 6
Assessment name:
Report
Description:
In consultation with your supervisor, you are required to source and appraise current literature relevant to the negotiated topic and prepare and submit a coherent report. Approx. 5000 words. Criteria set in consultation with supervisor.
Part B: Final report: 60%
Relates to objectives:
1-4
Weight:
60%
Internal or external:
Both
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
End of Semester
Academic Honesty
QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.
A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.
Resource materials
Nil
Risk assessment statement
There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.
Last modified: 08-Apr-2013
