1. To provide students with an understanding of the primary issues and decision stages involved in the completion of a research dissertation. 2. To provide students with the theory and its application of the various research philosophies, and research methods. 3. To develop a set of research skills including developing research question, sourcing information, analysis and interpretation skills project management. 4. To develop the competencies required assembling a research thesis, competencies in report writing, layout and presentation.

On successful completion of this component of the programme students will be able to: 1. Conduct analysis of the secondary literature; 2. Identify a research gap and frame a research question; 3. Choose a methodology appropriate to the research; 4. Conduct empirical work using appropriate methodologies and ethical frameworks; 5. Analyse and interpret data; 6. Draw appropriate conclusions from the research.

On successful completion of this component of the programme students will be able to: 1. Develop and/or demonstrate self motivation. 2. Develop and/or demonstrate competencies in time management and project management. 3. Respond in a positive way to constructive feedback from Faculty Supervisor. 4. Reflect on personal learning outcomes resulting from a self-directed inquiry involving implemention of research from inception to execution.

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Students will be taught reseach skills and methodologies through a series of online session with the Thesis Coordinator. Through interaction with their appointed their faculty supervisor students will benefit from one-to-one focussed discussions and feedback and will become aware of the collegial dimension to research and learning. The applied research project supports the development of all 6 graduate attributes: KNOWLEDGEABLE: Students develop critical thinking as they conduct a literature review and identify a research gap. PROACTIVE: Students make active use of data and research by collecting data to examine a research question, and in doing so develop confidence in managing a large, lengthy project they designed themselves with guidance from a supervisor. CREATIVE: Students develop their own research question, which requires them to integrate existing knowledge in a new way. RESPONSIBLE: Students manage their own research project, including submitting their research question and method to external scrutiny for ethical considerations. COLLABORATIVE: Students engage regularly with their supervisor, and must implement and build on the guidance provided. ARTICULATE: Students develop the ability to communicate challenging, academic concepts in a written document.