RATIONALE 

The extended project provides students with the opportunity to work on a project of interest to them. It is an important part of Level 6 study which allows, and requires, the development and application of specialist skills (for example in data manipulation, project management and critical thinking). Students are expected to draw upon knowledge and skills from other modules as they work on their project. The module is deliberately designed to be flexible and to offer students the option of undertaking a more formal piece of research; to work on a project suggested by their employer or another organization; or to undertake research into the feasibility of a business idea or in preparation of a business plan. In addition to being an important element of the degree, the extended project provides students with the chance to demonstrate and evidence skills and knowledge that relates to their intended career path following graduation. 

AIMS 

Through the completion of this module students will: 

• Demonstrate academic skills through the completion of a sustained investigation into a clearly defined area of interest that relates to their programme of study. 
• Apply principles of good research which ensures that conclusions and recommendations (where appropriate) are based on a reliable evidence base.  
• Where appropriate, highlight the implications for practice from their study, making recommendations, as necessary. 
• Reflect on the skills for employment that their project has required them to develop and practice. 

LEARNING OUTCOMES 

On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to: 

1. Design an appropriate research project that relates to their programme of study 
2. Devise and justify an appropriate research plan in which reliable data is collected 
3. Conduct a small-scale piece of secondary research. 
4. Analyse, synthesise and evaluate secondary data collected in order to meet the aims of the project. 
5. Present their work in a professional manner. 
6. Demonstrate an awareness of the contribution that the completion of the extended project has made to the development of skills for employment.