Module Details

Module Code: EDUC9029
Title: E-learning Thesis
Long Title: E-learning Thesis
NFQ Level: Expert
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2016/17 ( September 2016 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 20
Field of Study: 1420 - Education Studies
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: This module is the capstone of the MA in E-learning Development and draws from modules delivered over the previous semester of the programme as well as parallel work conducted during this semester with regard to the development of a real-world e-learning solution. The aim of the module is to support learners in contributing to the development of e-learning as a practice and a discipline while also helping learners develop integrative learning and critical reflection as they bring together a range of concepts, theories, frameworks, technologies and practices within a research setting, work which is directly evidenced in a final research thesis which forms the key formal assessment task for the module.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Evaluate and implement a valid and reliable research design for his/her own research question/s
LO2 Conduct a rigorous research study with real users/participants, integrating an original e-learning solution, data gathering techniques and tools, and valid and reliable methods
LO3 Communicate research findings in clear and professional manner in keeping with the standards of academic writing and scholarship
LO4 Link research findings to key issues in contempory e-learning and technology-enhanced learning practice in addition to, as appropriate, key national, European and international policy with regard to education and training, employment, the knowledge-based economy etc.
LO5 Critically appraise the role of the research study within a wider pedagogical and socioeconomic context with a view to identifying potential future development.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Research Design
Formulation of research question and associated aims and objectives. Choice of aligned research type/style and associated data gathering and analysis strategies.
Piloting/Study
A formal research study based around the piloting of students’ own original e-learning solution with real users/participants
Completion of thesis
Findings and conclusions to be presented in context of a formal academic thesis incorporating, as appropriate, a literature review and technical/use case background and adhering to standards of academic writing (referencing, formatting, style, argumentation etc.)
Context
Students will be encouraged to link their semester 3 work to real life learning needs, ongoing real world commercial and grant-funded elearning projects and initiatives, as well as key national, European and international policy with regard to education and training, employment, the knowledge-based economy etc.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 80
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Completion of academic thesis incorporating a literature review, research methods, primary/field research, analysis and findings, and discussion and conclusions.
Assessment Type Presentation % of Total Mark 10
Timing Week 6 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Class presentation on thesis progress
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 10
Timing Week 4 Learning Outcomes 1,3
Assessment Description
Initial feasibility study data, evaluating planned research approach
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Tutorial Contact Supervision of project and thesis Every Month 0.25 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Student work on research design, study and completion of thesis Every Week 27.70 27.7000007629395
Total Hours 28.70
Total Weekly Learner Workload 27.95
Total Weekly Contact Hours 0.25
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Tutorial Contact Supervision of project and thesis Every Month 0.25 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Student work on research design, study and completion of thesis Every Week 27.70 27.7000007629395
Total Hours 28.70
Total Weekly Learner Workload 27.95
Total Weekly Contact Hours 0.25
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Louis Cohen, Lawrence Manion, Keith Morrison,. (2011), Research Methods in Education, Sage, [ISBN: 0415583365].
  • Randy L. Joyner, William A. (Arthur) Rouse, Allan A. Glatthorn. (2012), Writing the Winning Thesis or Dissertation: A Step-by-Step Guide, 3rd Ed. Corwin, [ISBN: 978-145225878].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Dr Keith F Punch,. (2014), Introduction to Research Methods in Education, 2nd Ed. Sage, [ISBN: 978-1847870186].
  • William Horton,. (2011), e-Learning by Design, John Wiley & Sons, [ISBN: 0470900024].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_HELDE_9 Master of Arts in E-learning Design and Development 2 Mandatory