Sir John Cass Department of Art, Media & Design

JC3001C Dissertations
essential guidelines from proposal to final copy
Final submission: 1 x bound copy only, week 13, January 2012, REGISTRY: By 5pm exact date to be confirmed in October 2011: see pink notice-board for hand-in date.

CORE MODULE BOOKLET Proposal: Spring-Autumn Semester 2011 Dissertation: Complete in January 2012 Honours Level

contents
Section 1: Staff team teaching details Section 2: Module specification Section 3: Essential guidelines and timetable
introduction
why write a dissertation? what is a dissertation? expected structure of the dissertation independent study and tutorial support working through the dissertation process timetable

starting your dissertation

selecting your dissertation topic and title assessing the viability of your dissertation topic writing your dissertation proposal

dissertation proposal proforma download: WEBLEARN research

what is research? research techniques libraries, archives and other sources

preparing and writing the dissertation

preparing an outline structuring the dissertation working methods and essential support networks plagiarism referencing use of images submitting a draft word processing

final presentation of dissertation

general presentation images handing in

Section 1: Staff team teaching details

Module Leader: Office Location: Email: Office Hours: Other staff: Dr Dipti Bhagat th Room 6-44, 6 floor d.bhagat@londonmet.ac.uk tba Amanda Girling-Budd (A.Girling-budd@londonmet.ac.uk room 600) Matthew Hobson (m.hobson@londonmet.ac.uk) Chris Emmett (c.emmett@londonmet.ac.uk) David Gates (d.gates@londonmet.ac.uk) Heidi Yeo (h.ye@londonmet.ac.uk)

Diary of tutorials: you MUST bring these to every tutorial, tutors will check these against their record of the tutorial Note below your tutors location and the days and times of your tutorial. Indicate for yourself what is required of you in preparation for your tutorial Name of tutor: Location of tutorial: Date and time Progress expected in preparation for tutorial

Final submission: January, 2012, week 13. By 5pm. Check notice-board for exact date.
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Section 2: Module Specification

Teaching Location Teaching Semester Module Level City Autumn/Spring H

Home Academic Department JCAMD

Module Web Site Teaching Mode Module Title Timeslot Credit Rating For Module

JC3001 day Dissertation City campus 15

Module Summary CODE: JC3001C TITLE: Dissertation BRIEF DESCRIPTION: This (15 credit, 1 semester) dissertation module permits students the opportunity to make explicit connections between art, media and/or design theory and practice in the form of an independently researched academic paper. The module comprises a series of research seminars and individual supervision, provided to encourage development of an independent programme of research and writing in response to structured feedback and guidance. Students will be expected to identify and engage with a key research question, reading broadly to contextualise their area and object of interest, and upon this foundation to undertake close, thorough and detailed analysis of an appropriate case study. ASSESSMENT: Plan & Outline of Works (circa 500 words) (10%); Dissertation (90%) (circa 4500 - 5000 words) SEMESTER: Autumn or Spring PREREQUISITES: Completion of level C Prerequisites And Corequisites Prerequisite: Completion of level C Summary Description Of Assessment Items Assessment type Description of item DIS CWK % Weighting Qual Mark Qual Set Tariff Week due 13 13 Dissertation (circa 5000 words) 90% Studentship 10%

Module Aims The aims of this module are to: A) Encourage students to identify, plan and develop a substantial and focused programme of academic research [A2] B) Consolidate and enhance students' knowledge of an agreed area of study (including relevant historical, contextual, conceptual and ethical aspects of research) and to demonstrate command of research skills appropriate to completion of the research (including retrieval, recording and analysis of information, and the synthesis, articulation and communication of research findings). [A1, A2, A3] C) Stimulate students to engage with the disciplines of research and to work independently under structured guidance and supervision. [A1] D) Permit students to produce a coherent dissertation in response to the wider context of the subject discipline and in compliance with the conventions of scholarly presentation and citation [A2, A3] The graduate attributes focused on in the module are A1, A2 and A3. Syllabus
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This module will reflect the current conditions of research and practice within the cognate fields of art, media and design. 1. Fomulation of a focused research question and deployment of appropriate theory and research methods, towards a programme of autonomous research. 2. Appropriate use of research terminology, academic conventions and protocols. 3. Identification and appropriate investigation and study of primary and secondary sources employing ethical research methods. 4. Reflective research, facilitating of personal development planning. 5. Analysis, synthesis and coherent communication of research findings. Feasible areas of study may include: 1. Historical and contemporary studies and criticism of art, design and/or media culture. 2. Studies of production and consumption or studies of craft and industry practices within the cognate field of Art, Media and Design. 3. Practice-led philosophies, modernism, post-modernism, gender, sexuality, post-colonial studies, globalisation, socio-cultural geographies, identity, race and ethnicity, technology, materiality and immaterality, phenomenology, the everyday, sustainability, inclusivity. Learning And Teaching The module comprises 150 learning hours. The Teaching and Learning strategy for this module prioritises self-directed study, under appropriate supervisory guidance and direction. The following methods will be used: structured seminars to support and direct formulation of research plan regular student-led tutorials provide formal support and guidance and encourage peer discussion Supervisor/Supervisee meetings, to develop skills in oral communication, argument and visual analysis students timetabled study for self-directed continuous research students self-directed reading of specialist literature within the subject area to develop autonomous learning exploratory reading in related subjects to encourage creative reading and writing regular drafting and revision of work in progress to foster development of creative and appropriate writing styles and to promote progression Learning Outcomes On successful completion of the module, students should have: 1. Applied their knowledge and understanding of a range of research strategies to an agreed programme of study under appropriate supervision. [A2] 2. Proposed, planned and directed their own learning through sustained critical development. [A1, A3] 3. Developed and evaluated an appropriate research question and object of inquiry within the context of a coherently structured and argued dissertation which meets the prescribed, honours level academic conventions. [A3] Assessment Strategy The Dissertation (90%) will normally include a survey of a specified area of art, media and/or design scholarship. The written thesis will be expected to be grounded in relevant research and citation, to be coherently structured, argued and illustrated, providing a close analysis of its chosen case study situated within its context of study (i.e., locating the work historically, discursively and aesthetically, as appropriate). Typically, dissertation work will be expected to demonstrate a good level of visual literacy and awareness. Where relevant, ethical issues should be explicitly reflected upon. Where students undertake work of real originality, credit will be given for this. All submitted work must comply with the conventions of scholarly writing and citation. Learning outcome 1,2 & 3 are assessed within both components.
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For guidance in planning and development, towards completion of coursework requirements: << Studentship (10%) i.e., equivalent to circa 15 learning hours >> (Indicatively, this 15 hours may be thought of as comprising such activities as: e.g., reading, thinking, tutorial attendance, drafting and revision in response to feedback, planning of thesis in outline and plan of working toward completion.) << Dissertation (90%) i.e., equivalent to circa 135 learning hours >> (Indicatively, this 135 hours may be thought of as comprising such activities as: e.g., primary and secondary research (information gathering, processing, interpretation) and development (of structure, argument, evidence and illustration), identifying an appropriate research question and object of inquiry and theory adequate for purpose of investigation in tutorial discussion with supervisor, proofing and checking, presentation.) Formative input and assessment is provided, at intervals, in the structured feedback given in response to drafting and revision, guided reading and in an agreed plan of works drawn-up between supervisor and supervisee. Summative assessment for this module occurs in week 13. Students are expected to engage with the module throughout. The module will enable the development of students Personal Development Planning. Please submit 1 copy of the dissertation manuscript. To pass students must submit both components and receive an overall module pass (i.e., an aggregate mark of +40%) Bibliography As this module is research-based, students will be expected to develop their own, dedicated, subject specific bibliographies, under the direction of their dissertation supervisor. As a general source and starting point, you may wish to consult: Blaxter, L., C. Hughes, M. Tight, How to Research, Open University Press, 2006, third edition.

Section 3: Essential guidelines and timetable

introduction
This guide to and brief on the dissertation is intended to explain what the dissertation is, why you are expected to undertake such work. It also guides you through the process of researching, preparing for and working on your dissertation to successful completion. You are also given a clear indication of what is expected of your work and how it will be assessed. This is a detailed guide and brief and it should be read carefully and regularly and used throughout the dissertation process.

why write a dissertation?

As a design student, the major part of your education is concerned with the design of objects and space, though drawings, models and other kinds of visual representation. You are trained to work in studio settings, present design work, deal with a challenging crits and prepare a careful portfolio. Yet, design is not only about images and objects. Words are an integrated, essential part of design: design is then textual as well as visual and spatial. Words are often a necessary adjunct of design, often time providing explanations. Words and text are a way of understanding past ideas, or exploring new territories, new ideas, new kinds of design: through history to present day, designers and makers have explored their processes, intentions and the meaning of their work through sometimes elaborate texts. A dissertation then is best imagined as designed words: it is conceived and created through the sentences, paragraphs and considered argument. And indeed it is visual in the way it uses images to enhance an argument. A dissertation is where you can explain, explore, challenge, theorise or imagine design. It is a process through which you can learn about design and present your thoughts to others. Besides the dissertation is a core requirement of any university degree: the concentrated, detailed, analytical thinking that is the dissertation is precisely what the world of professional work expects of graduates. No dissertation - No degree.

what is a dissertation?
A dissertation is not the place to sum up everything you have thought or believed about design. It is, however, an opportunity to enquire in depth into a subject that is of interest to you. It is a conscious effort to identify, define, explore and articulate a subject of relevance to both design discourse and your own development as a designer and a thinker. A dissertation, then, is a lengthy piece of written work in which a chosen subject is examined in some depth. It develops through a process of research and is the outcome of a process of independent study. The definition of an appropriate research topic and the use of systematic research methods, are all-important, and you will be given guidance on these through tutorial supervision. A dissertation is different from a coursework essay in significant ways: It is normally substantially longer (at least 5000 words long, max 6500 words) It deals with a topic chosen by you (this must be approved by the Module Leader) It requires extremely thorough research It has additional presentation requirements

expected structure of the dissertation

The finished dissertation is a comprehensive document of at least 5000 words in length. It has a carefully organised, formal structure: title page, acknowledgements, contents page, list of illustrations, acknowledgements, introduction, followed by: the main body of the work which MUST form a 3 section structure, a conclusion, (possibly appendices)
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and a correctly formatted bibliography.

This structure is explained in the section on writing your dissertation, and defined again in the section on presentation. It is essential for any study that deals with visual culture to be illustrated with appropriate visual material. Material used must always be fully and perfectly referenced and be referred to in the discussion. Your dissertation must be word-processed and bound in a protective outer cover. The standard format is A4 other size formats may be permissible only on consultation with the module leader; please read the section on presentation very carefully. It is imperative that your dissertation is written in your own words even while you reference and quote from other writers. You must take care that you do not either deliberately or carelessly present the words or work of another person as if they were your own (see later: notes on avoiding plagiarism).

independent study and tutorial support

This is not a taught module: it is based on independent study. You have the prime responsibility for managing your work for the module. You will be allocated a supervisor by the first week of the new academic year and you must make proper arrangements to meet for regular tutorials. You must keep appointments, be punctual, always take notes, and come prepared: tutorials are a waste of time if you have no work to demonstrate, report on or ask about. Allow time for your supervisor to give feedback and follow advice given. Make proper and respectful use of your supervisor.

working through the dissertation process

The dissertation is concerned with the process of research and communication as well as with the final finished product. The production of the dissertation goes through distinct stages and you must meet the deadlines for each stage. All stages are considered in the final assessment. These stages are: Formal proposal this is presented to the Supervising team and external examiners once you have identified an agreed topic. Dissertation outline ideally, you should be constructing this whilst you are deciding on your final topic. The outline just as does the proposal requires you to have gathered information about your topic and analysed it. You need to discriminate between information that is central to your argument and that which is of lesser importance. Having analysed your material you should be able to develop a section structure in which you detail your key findings. You should bring this to your first tutorial with your supervisor. THIS IS ASSESSED. Draft this is normally expected to be a complete version of what will be the main text of the final document (optional visuals). This stage of the process is vitally important, as it enables your supervisor to give you detailed feedback in time for you to make improvements before submitting your work. This is not assessed. Finished document this completes the module - hopefully, successfully. Timetable to be followed faithfully. Proposal: Spring Semester, Level 2 Summer: Conduct research Autumn Semester, Level 3, 2011-2012: Week 1 Outline: week 4, to supervisor (Assessed) You should have completed a detailed dissertation outline with section headings and a full plan of the contents of each section. You should also hand in an up-dated and perfectly formatted bibliography. First section draft: week 7. You should have completed a rough version of the first section this should be given to your supervisor for comments. Second section draft: week 9. You should have responded to feedback on section 1 and completed a rough version of section 2 this should be given to your supervisor. You are just over half way through the dissertation module: make sure that your work reflects this. The winter break should be spent on: polishing the study; proof-reading; checking that the line of argument is clear throughout; writing the abstract (show this to your supervisor) and finalising the conclusion (if you manage your time correctly you should be able to give this to your supervisor for general comments). Check your references for accuracy, produce and caption your images. Week 12/13 is for printing and ensuring that your work is in the correct format and beautifully presented for submission.
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Final submission: 1x bound copy, in Week 13; January, 2012: REGISTRY, by 5pm.
MAKE CERTAIN IT IS ON TIME TO REGISTRY. LATE SUBMISSIONS ARE CAPPED. Computer error, printer failure, late busses, late tube trains and no parking are NOT mitigating circumstances. (If you encounter difficulties/ problems prior to submission, do not abandon your work, speak to your supervisor asap, and ask for help constructing a work plan or advice regarding mit circs.)

timetable
The dissertation timetable drawn up for you below is crucial and if you follow it closely, transcribe it onto your diary, you will find your dissertation manageable. Note the dates in your tutorial diary and meet the deadlines Week 1: October 2011 Week 1/2 Tutorial Meet your supervisor. Discuss the development of your proposal and the research carried out through summer. Present your extended bibliography, current reading. Discuss possible outline/structure of dissertation to present at next tutorial. Set regular tutorial times for the semester. Hand-in dissertation outline: to your supervisor for comment in tutorial. Typed, double spaced, with correct bibliography. Discuss the drafting of first section, structure and negotiate time for section feedback. Report on current research. Present draft of first section to your supervisor. Discuss drafting of second/third section and report on current reading. Make certain all references are thorough. Present draft of second/third section to supervisor. Discuss the first draft + completion: expectations, structure, etc. Winter Break/Christmas Week 12 Final polishing, proof reading, checking and printing. Production of images, binding. Make sure you have made ample time for production of a perfect dissertation

Week 3/4 Tutorial

Week 5/6/7 Tutorial

Week 8/9 Tutorial

Week 13 January 2012

Final submission. 1 complete copy, bound securely, well presented By 5pm Registry: (you must keep one electronic copy - PDF - for yourself). DO NOT BE LATE

starting your dissertation

selecting your dissertation topic and title
The single most important decision you will make in the dissertation module is the initial choice of topic, expressed as a working title. You need to put considerable thought into this aspect: carry out some initial research and think about the following: Is the topic right for you? Can you balance personal enthusiasm against practical considerations (time, access to sources etc.)? Will the study be a valuable addition to your portfolio, or your development as a designer? Remember that the subject of your dissertation could contribute to your employability. What links might you make with ideas you have for the Final Project? The Dissertation is an analytical discussion of a subject that leads to a personal interpretation supported by evidence. The use of a question as the form of your working title gives focus to the study and will help you to determine the relevance of any particular piece of research material. On completion of the study it is best to convert the question into a statement e.g. In what ways was the design work of the Bauhaus influenced by technological advances? could be expressed as The impact of technology on the working ethos of the Bauhaus. When you are contemplating a working title try to make sure that you avoid the over-ambitious or the vague e.g. Branding, Advertising, New technologies in design, green design etc. These are subject areas not working titles of a manageable dissertation. Broadly speaking, there are probably three key types of dissertation topics that provide the scope for discussion or argument: Historic or contextual concerns: which examine the way a particular subject has changed over a period of time and tries to account for the change. These can look at distant or recent events but share th the basic notion of change over time. Eg How did the design of Paisley shawls in the early 19 century Britain incorporate Indian motifs and thus come to dominate Indian textile production? Comparison of two (or more) related things, people or phenomena: these are compared to decide why similarities or differences occur, and the significance of the findings is assessed. Eg A consideration of British aesthetics in the 1980s as articulated through the work of Norman Foster and Richard Rogers. Acknowledgement of influences: seeks to explain phenomena in terms of particular influences. Questions on abstract influence, philosophical or ethical, on design practice belong to this category: eg How are the principles of green design and sustainability addressed by contemporary urban development in London/ by contemporary British advertising. Any study that looks into the notion of influence must consult the preface/introduction to the second revised edition of H. Bloom, The Anxiety of Influence. Below is an illustrative list of sample topics, that can be closely connected to design, and which could be treated in one of the three basic ways outlined above: People generic. Engineers, designers, retailers etc. (i.e. people as a group rather than particular individuals). How can designers actively contribute to an argument for sustainable industrial production and sustainable consumption practices? People particular. Named individuals such as designers, architects, manufacturers, critics etc. who have some bearing on the world of the product/object. Consider the work of Le Corbusier: to what extent was International Modernism strongly influenced by his practice in India? / Consider the work of Aubrey Beardsely: to what extent can his Orientalist work be considered a break with tradition? / In what ways has Jasper Morrison extended Modernist notions of good design in his practice? Professions. Architecture, interior design, museum curation, textile industries, etc. To what extent can we suggest that the interior design profession in Britain has become feminised through the last century? Objects. Extended and focussed object analysis. Consider the Orientalising representations of (3) recent Disney animated film(s). Processes. Planning, testing, managing, recycling etc. To what extent can large scale furniture manufacturing engage with issues of sustainability in comparison with batch-craft production? Ideas/ideal. Ethics, sustainability, fitness for purpose etc. A consideration of Fosters recent work addressing issues of sustainability as allied with Modernisms maxim of form follows function. / How has contemporary fashion design attempted to address principles of sustainability? Culture. Trends, values, groups, semiotics etc. Consider how multi-culturalism in Britain has tended to produce essential ethnicities as fashionably consumable./ An analysis of Amoldovars iconic representations of women./ An analysis of the contemporary return to ornament in fashion: is ornament now adored for the very reasons it was once reviled by pioneer Modernists?

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Law. Consumer legislation, copyright, environmental legislation etc. Consider the making of laws to protect the intellectual copyright of designers: how effective is such protection across a globalised and networked world? Technology. Software, materials, control systems etc. How has the technological advancement of the west enabled a globalised design industry to function? Consider with direct reference to textile/fashion production. All the above examples offer examples of British/Western design. You are encouraged to study examples from around the world: but ONLY if you are able to visit the sites/objects you wish to study. Please consult your tutor, or dipti or Amanda for advice.

assessing the viability of your dissertation topic

It may be useful to identify three or four topics for research, and test them for feasibility. In evaluating a potential dissertation topic, try to identify four things: What are the particular objects of your study? It must be about something: textiles, films, architectural/interior sites, collections of designers (furniture/jewellery/photography), existing exhibitions, particular companies: these will offer real case studies to test and expand your ideas. What are the interpretative possibilities of your subject? What can you say about it that is analytical, intelligent, goes beyond repetitive description? Consider what kinds of issues and questions you want to investigate; how these issues relate to your object of study, and how much this will give you to discuss. What is the nature of your investigation? Is it to be an explanatory history? Is it critical history or interpretation? Is it highly theoretical or object centred? What is the established academic context of your topic? It is essential to know what has been written about something. This knowledge must be demonstrated throughout your dissertation. Seek to pursue a balance of objects, description, interpretations and theorisations. Be realistic about the practical aspects of conducting your research: avoid planning a topic that necessitates impossible travel, the need for extensive surveys, a lazy subject. Do draw on the strengths you have, such as your language skills: your fluency in any of your first languages may enable a particular topic ideal (though remember this is a British degree and must be completed in English).

writing your dissertation proposal (500 words) download form from weblearn
Your dissertation proposal is an important way to begin your research and an important guide to continuing your work. The purpose of the proposal is to give you a clear idea of what you are going to do, how you will do this and when you will do this. It forms a contract between you and your supervisor for the work you will complete. Your proposal should contain the following: Title and subject matter. Here give the title and subtitle, or you may express this as a question. Be as specific as possible, do not offer vague, amorphous subject areas. You may always come up with a snappy, seductive title later, at submission time. Statement of research. This is most important and you must provide all the following. Identify: The objects of study: what buildings, cities, textile/jewellery/furniture collections, designers, films, practices you wish to investigate. You must select primary objects of study, which you can see or visit now and through the duration of your period of research. You cannot select objects of study that you have not seen first hand, i.e. do not rely on objects only accessible through books or the internet. The significance of what you are investigating. What is interesting about it, what questions, do you intend to ask, what ideas will you pursue? The kind of analytical approach you will adopt: how will you explore and assess your topic? What case studies will you provide, what theoretical angles might you take? Academic context. (300 words) Who else has written about this subject already and what have they said? How will this help you develop your own argument? How will your work differ? Provide a review/analysis of 3 relevant texts. Do not copy the descriptions of books you find on the back cover. Find and read relevant texts and consider who these will be used in your analysis. Provisional section headings, research sub-questions: these can be 3 key questions that arise from your main topic question. These questions should expand your thinking and refine your topic. Sources: list all arenas of information gathering, libraries, archives, interviews, objects, exhibitions, sites, websites and all books, magazines and journals. A full and complete bibliography is expected (at least 10 sources). Timetable: provide an indication of your forward planning from June 2011 showing when you will carry out essential research, interviews, site-visits etc.
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dissertation proposal from: MUST BE DOWNLOADED FROM WEBLEARN

Follow the headlines below and complete every section, else you will be asked to resubmit your proposal. Keep a copy for yourself: be sure that the proposal is thorough: it will help your own progress after the summer.

Name: Course: Date Submitted: 1. TITLE AND SUBJECT MATTER This can be a question to begin with; a snappy title may come much later. 20-30 words 2. STATEMENT OF RESEARCH 100 words Identify the objects of study: Identify and list your objects of study: these must be PRIMARY sources that you can see/ visit/ access directly now and later. Make it very clear what and where these are. (WHAT exactly are you researching.) Define the significance of your subject: why are you researching this? What is important about it, what questions do you intend to ask, what issues/ideas will you pursue? Define the approach you will adopt: how will you approach your subject? Provide theoretical approaches and their relevance to your objects of study (reference carefully). 3. YOU MUST provide an ACADEMIC CONTEXT for your topic, 350 words: Provide brief analysis (not plagiarised) of 3 relevant texts (books, sections, journal article) to show how these will be useful to your study (reference carefully and provide full bibliographic detail). Do not copy the descriptions of books you find on the back cover. Find and read relevant texts and consider who these will be used in your analysis. 4. PROVISIONAL SECTION HEADINGS 3 key questions that expand/explain your title and subject matter and will form 3 sections later. 30 words 5. SOURCES: minimum 10 listed All relevant libraries, archives, interviews, objects, exhibitions, sites, websites and all books, magazines and journals. A full and correctly formatted bibliography is expected. 6. TIMETABLE Timetable essential research, interviews, site-visits etc. before next semester. Hand in to REGISTRY: 5pm, 13 MAY. Keep a copy for yourself, we will keep all submitted proposals. Feedback on these proposals will be brief and may advise you on potential structure, reading and focus. Feedback advice must be followed. Module code: JC2002C/ Theorising Art, Media and Design

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research
what is research?
Research is the endeavour to discover new material or offer new interpretations though scientific study or critical inquiry. It seeks factual information, but more specifically, the key ideas and approaches to this information. Good research is that which offers critical and creative interpretations of what is uncovered and demonstrates and acknowledges other peoples work as appropriate. Good research is eclectic, while relevant: it looks in varied places. Research for a design dissertation is textual as well as visual. Before you begin research you should clearly define your purpose and subject as these definitions largely determine the material you select for research. Think about the following questions while defining your subject: What do I already know about the subject? This will guide further reading. What might I focus on within the subject? This will help define areas objects of study. What subject headings are central? This will help organise research into potential section headings. How will I approach this area? This will enable a critical/theoretical approach to develop. You must consult primary sources: site visits, historical texts where relevant, exhibitions and actual objects that you wish to study. Ultimately you should aim to examine both primary and secondary sources. Once you have selected and collected relevant material you need to evaluate it consider the aims of your project when searching for new information.

research techniques
Make sure your material and ideas are in an organised state either develop a filing system or use a large sketch-book to chart the progression of your ideas and research. Make sure you critique the information you collect. Make sure you always note all information for: bibliography, references and footnotes, image source. Preview your notes and ideas regularly you need to evaluate what you have collected. This is not easy; you need to consider the purpose, content, structure and presentation of the material for its general quality and for its specific relevance to your subject and purpose. Not all of the material you have selected will be as relevant as you may have hoped some of it will not suit your definition of your subject and some may present ideas with which you disagree. Do not necessarily reject this material, as you may be able to incorporate a criticism of it into your writing. Develop your ability to interpret primary sources and offer opinions on secondary sources. It may help to consider (and work on) the following: Get to know your primary sources thoroughly see what questions arise each time you consider these objects; follow these up with your reading. Use secondary sources to clarify points you are unsure of in the primary material. Examine critically other peoples interpretations of the ideas or objects you are studying. See if the secondary sources throw up any new insights or unexpected connections: follow these. There are a number of different approaches to organising and integrating ideas and information: Write each of the separate ideas onto separate sheets of paper or cards and arrange the cards under appropriate headings. Use this method to rearrange your ideas and information. Use a mind-map to establish key points, unifying threads. Make sure to write drafts of key sections these can be discussed with your supervisor: write as you go along.

libraries, archives and other sources

Research widely: use varied sources in and around London. Every museum in this city has either a library or an archive that you can consult. Your priority is read books, journals, newspapers (broadsheets), design press. Be very careful with your use of Internet sources. This will be monitored closely.

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preparing and writing the dissertation

preparing an outline (500 words, text only) (assessed)
Follow the guidelines below: You must have conducted some in-depth research to be able to write an outline. Draw on your notes and your interpretations and critical assessments of your research. You must have developed distinct themes and angles on your subject, and a sense of what is the central to your argument. Out of this critical review, develop a section structure (see below) through which to make your argument. Your dissertation should be more than a factual description of your findings. Your outline should contain: Your name and your dissertation title: reconsider the working title. Does it work, amend if necessary Introduction: briefly how you will approach your subject, what theoretical ideas you will use, what objects are you studying Sections: list each one, suggest a short title for each. Under each title, summarise the central argument, indicate the academic context and offer an assessment of the main object/s of study that is/are the focus for the section. Bibliography: updated with correct formatting: YOU MUST USE THE STYLE TAUGHT IN YOUR CONTEXT MOUDULES. Comment on progress: Add a brief statement of your progress and indicate what needs to be done. Hand-in: to your supervisor, typed.

structuring the dissertation

The basic rule in structuring a your argument for your dissertation is: Say what you are going to say INTRODUCTION Say it MAIN ARGUMENT, IN SECTIONS Say that you have said it CONCLUSION Introductions do exactly that: it explains the main content, arguments and structure of the dissertation (500800 words). It should cover: The object of study. Summarise the subject and indicate the main objects of study. Interpretative ideas. Introduce the main theoretical and intellectual ideas that you bring to bear on the subject. Which are the main themes you will investigate, which sets of ideas are you using and why? Academic context. Identify other work that is relevant to yours, note how yours is similar or differs. Methodology. Summarise your process of investigation and analysis: is this history, case study, theoretical with illustrative examples? Explain why you have taken this approach. Dissertation structure. Simply summarise and describe each section/section of the dissertation, in terms of what they do, what questions they will address and which objects of study each section will focus on. The introduction is one of the final pieces you write, once you have written the main body of the dissertation. Main argument is where the body/meat of the dissertation is located, where you investigate and present your subject. Follow the five tips below: Sub-divide the main body of the dissertation into 3 sections. Each section should deal with a distinct element of your subject. Like paragraphs one must lead well into the next: the sequence of the sections is important. Focus each section on its selected topic: stick to the point. Size your sections appropriately and keep them to the same or similar size. Eg 800 words for intro and conclusion, then 4200 words for 3 sections, 1400-2000 words each, depending on the number of sections. Link each section with the next, with linking paragraphs at the end and/or beginning of each section, summarising what you have achieved and where you go next. Plan each and all sections carefully and write each in turn. Do not move about too much between the sections at the same time. Within each section: there must be an introductory paragraph: this presents the focus of the section (research question and object of study). Within each section: paragraph structure as you have learned must be closely followed to develop your argument. Within each section: your argument is developed through the presentation of your research. MAKE SURE that you are using references and quotations both fully footnoted, and images to reinforce your argument.
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Within each section: conclude each section, briefly stating what you have argued/focussed on, and make a direct link to the next section.

Conclusions must reiterate what the dissertation is about, what has been achieved: Summarise your argument and interpretations, drawing out the salient points (400 words). Speculate on the value of your research for design in general. You may suggest possible further research, but do not introduce a new idea/discussion to your own argument: this is finished in the main body.

working methods and essential support networks

Follow the tips below: Review your notes thoroughly before writing, and do so often. Write regularly and systematically, one section at a time. Assess your work at regular intervals. Arrange your thoughts: a dissertation is about organised, critical thinking. Use flow charts and mindmaps. Write detailed plans before writing. Refer to your subject always, do not loose sight of it. Contextual study and parallel comparisons and theoretical critiques are always related and are about your subject of study. Keep to the upper limit of your word count: overwriting is about being unable to edit and distinguish relevance. Make sure grammar, spelling and use of English is always accurate. Make sure you reference well, correctly and perfectly. Make sure you write the dissertation in your own words: plagiarism will not be tolerated: see below. For those who need extra assistance for use of English, tackling dyslexia, writing dissertations, the University runs support classes at Calcutta House. Contact the Learning Development Unit. Also contact the Writing Centre for advice, to set up tutorials: this is a HIGHLY VALUABLE resource. Any students who find writing academic work in English as a second language should really establish a support network as soon as possible: this can make a very real difference to a happier and successful dissertation experience.

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 plagiarism
For a detailed discussion of plagiarism see Joseph Gibaldi, MLA Handbook for Writers or Research Papers, (New York: The Modern Language Association of America, 2003), section 2. Plagiarism is: passing off another persons work as your own (including the work of fellow students). re-using of an authors ideas or information without making a clear citation/reference. paraphrasing the ideas of an author without any citation/reference. paraphrasing a section of text using the language of the author, and not your own. downloading information from the web without giving exact citation/reference. re-using your won work for subsequent assignments. buying essays/dissertations and passing them off as your own. Why avoid it? Your study should be a combination of your own work in the context of established academic work: the two should be distinguishable in your work. Plagiarism is intellectual fraud, theft, and regarded by all Universities as academic misconduct. It wastes your time, degrades the University, is ethically wrong. It prevents you from developing your own voice and expression of ideas. What is not plagiarism? Your use of well known proverbs and sayings that have become part of our everyday language. Your use of well known facts/received knowledge: eg the start of the World War 2; but giving another persons opinion of the War without reference is plagiarism. It is very important that you do not commit plagiarism: this is considered academic fraud and will be dealt with by the University according to the rules that govern academic misconduct. To avoid plagiarism: Take notes correctly in a way that indicates to you what is and is not your own thinking. In your note taking: be sure to have all the information regarding the source so you can reference perfectly. Distinguish your own ideas from that you have read and do not use the authors words other than in a direct quote. Be sure that you can make correct citations/references for any set of ideas or quotations that you have researched and are using.

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 referencing
Essential to all dissertations is the careful use of the referencing system footnotes and bibliographies. This system demonstrates where your research comes from, where your main ideas are derived from. Further, referencing clearly shows your knowledge and acknowledgement of the academic context of your dissertation topic. Footnotes have two purposes: They provide extra information that offer additional clarification or comment to that which is in the main text. They also state the source for the facts and ideas and quotations that your text uses. This is very important and all quotes and ideas you have drawn from other sources must be footnoted. Always provide a footnote: When you are making a direct quote. When you are paraphrasing in your own words the ideas or work of someone else. When you are referring to a source. When you are drawing attention to an already established source. When you are challenging a previous argument or opinion (even your own, so you may refer the reader back to an earlier page and earlier footnote) Eg: Spiller argues that the influence of new biological and mechanical systems on architecture means that we 1 must now re-assess architecture. His argument ranges from alchemy and secrecy to cyborgian mutation 2 and genocide. The above example demonstrates some uses of footnotes. Further, the footnotes at the bottom of the page show the ways of citing references: the first time a text is referenced note all details and page numbers. Thereafter, the same text can be noted with a short title and page numbers (single p. for page number; pp. for more than one page). Note how quotations are incorporated into the sentence. Longer quotations (more than three lines) should be indented into a separate paragraph. No speech marks are used for indented quotes. Eg: Said insists upon the power of narrative, reminding us, that, As one critic has suggested, nations themselves are narrations. The power to narrate, or to block other narratives from forming and emerging, is very important to culture and imperialism, 3 and constitutes one of the main connections between them. When you are quoting/making reference to an author/idea that you have read as a quote/reference made by another author, follow the guide in the example below: Eg: Edward Saids argument for understanding the ways in which Orientalism works is not merely about understanding the history of Orientalism. He suggests that one aspect of the electronic, postmodern world is 4 that there has been a reinforcement of the stereotypes by which the Orient is viewed.

Footnotes must always appear at the bottom of the page: see below. Full bibliographic detail must be noted in footnotes when the text is first referenced. Thereafter use short titles: see below, note 1 and 2.

Neil Spiller, Digital dreams: Architecture and the New Alchemic Technologies, (London: Ellipsis, 1998), pp.1-13. 2 Spillers argument is more concerned with the impact of these technologies rather than with their objective, technical effects. See Spiller, Digital Dreams, pp. 9-10. 3 Edward Said, Culture and Imperialism, (London: Vintage, 1994), p. xiii. 4 Edward Said, cited in Homi K. Bhaba, The Location of Culture, (London: Routledge, 1994) p. 46.
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 use of images
Images should always be used to support your research. Consider the type and atmosphere of an image, its relevance to your argument and what you can say about it. So select them carefully, use them to further your argument, analysing them and commenting on their significance. DO NOT use images merely decoratively, DO NOT use illegible images. Each image should have a full caption, naming the image and giving details of its source. Number the images consecutively through your work; refer to them by their number. (Eg: Che Guevara was immortalised, even romanticised by Kordas enigmatic portrait, see fig 4) You must also list all images with full bibliographic details of their sources at the front of your dissertation. When listing them, order them according to their order in your work. All images must appear on a separate page, directly after you have made reference to it in your text.

Eg:

Fig 4. Kordas enigmatic portrait of Che Guevara, Che Guevara, Cuba, 1961, Bernstein, E, Imagining Che, (Los Angeles: UCLA Press, 1992), p. 92

submitting drafts of your work

Your draft should be a complete document: it is an ideal opportunity for your supervisor to read your work carefully and comment for your benefit. The draft should be typed, thorough in its referencing and accurate in its presentation. Be sure to meet the deadline: your supervisor cannot be expected to comment on your whim. Consider the following points when preparing your draft and when checking the final dissertation? Is your subject clearly defined, your focus strong? Is your evidence clearly presented? Does the narrative flow well through each section/paragraph? Does your argument develop in a logical manner through each section? Have you enough or too much material, have you repeated yourself? (check repetition of words, phrases, and ideas) Avoid repetition. Have you made it clear which are your ideas and which ideas are those you have read and are using? Have you referenced your research well? Check that footnotes are perfect. Check your writing style: is there waffle? Are you writing in a formal way? Is your use of language correct? Check: spelling, grammar, sentence structure. Are you using images effectively? Check the details of their sources. Does your conclusion: reflect the material and theme presented in your study? relate to your introduction? finish smoothly? suggest any further areas or questions to be followed up without introducing any major new ideas? Have you expressed your ideas clearly and is your writing style your own? (no plagiarism) Complete the writing process with thorough proof reading (do not rely on the computer).

word processing
All dissertations and all stages must be word-processed, 1.5 line spaced, spell checked and proof-read in simple, readable font. Save regularly, make back-ups all the time, keep hard copies of your work at each stage. Use the word count: no less that 5000 words, text only. MAX 6500 words.

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final presentation of dissertation

general presentation
Follow the rules below for the final production. All dissertations to be typed, in 12 point legible, simple font, 1.5 or double spaced. Spell check and proof read thoroughly. All pages to be numbered Use A4 paper, A3 for foldouts Margins of 2cm all around the text Print on only one side of the page, only in portrait layout All dissertations must be spiral bound, or by other secure binding system (no box files) Do not use an acetate sheet for cover, use only heavier paper or light card. The complete dissertation must be arranged in the following order: Title/cover page: Name, Student number, Dissertation Title, Module code Department of Art, Media and Design, London Metropolitan University, Date, Module Leaders name and Supervisors name. Acknowledgements This short paragraph allows you to acknowledge all individuals who have given you real/significant help throughout your dissertation work. Contents page The contents page should give titles and page numbers for each of the section of the dissertation: List of illustrations (list all images in order, by their number as they appear in your work: you must include your caption, and the exact source with full bibliographic detail and page number) Introduction Main Body: Sections with their titles: each section must begin on a new page, with section number and title, introduction, main body and conclusion linking to next section. Conclusion Appendices (if relevant) Bibliography Images to be neat, reproduced clearly, legible, mounted carefully, and you must provide your own caption below the image, with the full details of the source included. Images must be integrated throughout the body of the text: either scanned or carefully mounted on a separate page immediately after it is mentioned in the text.

A golden rule is: do not leave printing and binding your document until the last minute, and never until the hand-in day itself. Unforeseen problems with the computer of photocopier can ruin your work, or cause you to miss the deadline. Such problems are not accepted as valid mitigating circumstances, since, with proper time management, they are avoidable.

handing in
HAND IN ON TIME: ONE COPY ONLY OF YOUR DISSERTATION. You must keep a PDF version safe. DO NOT BE LATE: LATE HAND-INS ARE CAPPED Mitigating circumstances: The universitys general Academic Regulations give Boards of Examiners the power to take account of circumstances which may affect students performance. So, if unusual circumstances beyond your control prevent your submitting your dissertation be sure to discuss these with your supervisor and make an application for mitigating circumstances before the deadline.

Final submission: week 13th, in January, 2012, Registry, 5pm Exact date to be announced: check notice-board for confirmation.

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