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MA Landscape Studies
MA Landscape Management
LSC6003 LANDSCAPE DISSERTATION
GUIDELINES
Summer 2009
Module Co-ordinator: Paul Selman
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POSTGRADUATE DISSERTATION GUIDELINES
These Guidelines provide information about the Postgraduate Dissertation in the MAs inLandscape Studies and Landscape Management. They advise you about what 留学生大学申请essay isrequired, what assistance you can expect, and how we will mark the Dissertation.
This module provides the opportunity to engage in autonomous study and research. Allstudents work closely with an advisor in order to produce a substantial piece of researchin their chosen area which has been informed by appropriate methodological andtheoretical frameworks.
Aims
• to enable students to operate autonomously, and to plan, manage and achievedefined research outcomes.
• to facilitate students in acquiring breadth and depth of knowledge andunderstanding in their chosen areas of study and the ability to analyse andsynthesise appropriate concepts.
Learning Outcomes.
At the end of this module students will be able to:
• demonstrate a systematic understanding and knowledge of current issues in adefined field of landscape and apply these to research enquiry
• correctly apply methods of enquiry applicable to the research
• structure, execute and complete an enquiry which produces new findings,insights and/or interventions
• communicate findings fluently and coherently according to the appropriateconventions of scientific, social scientific or artistic landscape research.
The Dissertation may be one of four types:
1. An original research project involving experimental design and the collection,analysis and reporting of new information. Normally, this will be based on a topicproposed by http://www.ukassignment.org/ a member of academic staff.
2. A structured, critical review of research and practice/policy in a selected area,which may include evidence-based case studies, and should identify knowledgegaps and/or ways in which leading-edge practice could be informed by newresearch and theorised understanding of precedent;
3. A theoretically contextualised creative project, reported in a rigorous way, withthe project appropriately documented and critiqued. Normally, this will be basedon a topic proposed by a member of academic staff.
4. A critical precedent study of a set of work – for example a linked series ofprojects, or the work of a particular designer or landscape architecture practice –usually in the format of a ‘photographic essay’.
Dissertations must exemplify the use of appropriate methods of enquiry. In relation to thetypes of dissertation above, these will typically comprise:
1. experimental design, primary analysis and reporting#p#分页标题#e#
2. systematic review, paying particular attention to emergent themes
3. creative practice, plus documentation and structured reflection
4. selection, illustration and interpretation of works, comprising a critical
assessment of precedent.
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Four types of dissertation are encouraged, as set out below. It is not intended that these arerestrictive, and the distinctions between different types may become blurred. It is expected thatthe balance between review, original investigation, analysis of literature, and use of precedentwill be fluid. All dissertations should include a review of literature/ precedent but the extent of thiswill vary significantly according to the type of dissertation with, for example, very extensivecoverage in Type 2 and more limited coverage in Type 4. It is important to agree an appropriatebalance and format with your advisor.
Project Based (Type 1) Dissertation: this comprises an original research investigation gatheringand analysing primary data, or re-interpreting secondary data including historical archives. Itshould include: a clear aim, a set of objectives, research questions, and hypothesis (not all ofthese are always appropriate, depending on the type of study); an appropriately framedinvestigation; a methodology for data collection and analysis; a resolution of ethical issues; an
analysis and interpretation of findings; and a critical discussion of findings in relation to previous
literature, with a reflection on future research avenues.
Review Based (Type 2) Dissertation: this comprises a systematic, themed and critical analysis of arelevant topic, probably drawing together research and practice. It should include: a justificationand contextualisation of the topic; an explanation of how you have undertaken a systematic
approach to reviewing relevant research and practice; an organisation of the review into clearthemes, with a clear and logical structure of chapters/ headings/ subheadings; an insight intomethodological approaches and the strengths and weaknesses of these; and a critical
interpretation of findings, with a discussion of potential future research avenues. It may beappropriate to undertake a small original investigation as part of the dissertation, e.g. trialling asurvey technique or documenting a case study.
Advanced Theorised Design (Type 3) Dissertation: this comprises an engaged and reflexive studyof a creative landscape work, which often involves your direct involvement in a landscapeintervention. It should include: an account and explanation of the significance of an artefact,performance or other approved creative work; a review of literature and practice to explain itstheoretical and conceptual origins; and account of the nature of the creative practice and how itwas undertaken; a clear and reflexive documentation, analysis and interpretation of the creativepractice.
Practice Review (Type 4) Dissertation: this comprises an illustrated review essay (sometimes
referred to as a ‘photographic essay’) of landscape practice or a landscape practitioner. Although#p#分页标题#e#
this type of study often focuses on the work of a particular designer, it could potentially relate to
a linked series of projects (e.g. arising from a policy programme or regeneration exercise), the
work of a particular landscape practice, or a particular type of landscape design/ planning/
management intervention (e.g. rain gardens). It should comprise: a systematic inquiry into a
significant example of influential practice; an elucidation of its practical achievement and
underlying philosophical principles; intelligently selected illustrations (e.g. photographs,
sketches, plans) based on a clearly articulated rationale, and fully acknowledged; a reflective
and critical commentary, appraising the subject’s distinctive contribution to landscape
architecture; and an appropriate use of precedent and literature.
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Outputs
• Either a 10,000 word written text based on discipline specific norms and
expectations (Types 1 and 2)
• Or a written Critical Evaluation Report of 5000-7000 words plus appropriate
visual material (Types 3 and 4).
Assessment Criteria
Students will be assessed on the extent to which the presentation of their research
process demonstrates the ability to:
• Display a systematic understanding and knowledge of current issues in their field
of study and apply these to a research enquiry
• Realise ideas and intentions, and synthesise knowledge, in coherent ways.
• Effectively deploy appropriate processes, techniques and media that enact a
clearly articulated methodology of research
• Articulate and apply conceptual, aesthetic and critical frameworks that are
appropriate to negotiated research aims
• Analyse, present and articulate research findings and conclusions in a way that is
coherent and lucid, and indicates competence in following conventions.
The Nature of the Dissertation
The Dissertation is an independent exercise, in which you choose a topic of relevance to
your degree and of personal interest. Whilst you will receive some assistance, a major
purpose is to demonstrate your ability to work on your own initiative, and to manage your
time in such a way that you produce a high quality submission, to a deadline, with limited
direction.
The Dissertation builds upon module LSC 4120. You will thus have an acquaintance with
research methods and their application to landscape issues, and you will have
developed an initial proposal. Normally, your choice of Dissertation topic will follow on
from this research proposal: however, if you wish to change your topic, you should
consult the Module Coordinator as soon as possible, as you may need to be allocated a
new advisor.
Your Dissertation should show evidence of:
• choice of a clear and focused topic, which is achievable within the time and#p#分页标题#e#
resources at your disposal;
• ability to select a topic which is relevant to and has arisen from your course, and
which clearly draws upon and integrates knowledge from it;
• a degree of academic challenge appropriate to postgraduate level;
• clarity of aims, objectives and research questions/hypotheses;
• a sound knowledge of and insight into the relevant literature;
• selection and implementation of an appropriate and valid methodology;
• new findings or ideas, leading to defensible and interesting conclusions that are
linked back to the literature in a reflective manner;
• ability to see relevance in findings and to exercise selectivity in the inclusion of
pertinent material;
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• clear presentation and organisation of the dissertation, produced in a
professional manner (this includes grammar, style, spelling and paragraph
structure);
• actual or potential relevance to professional situations.
Selection of Topic
You should already have a topic based on your Research Proposal, although you are
able to change this prior to confirming your dissertation topic. Your topic must be one
which can reasonably be supervised by a member of staff of the Department and is
relevant to the aims and objectives of your course. You are expected to arrange at least
one meeting with your advisor before the end of the summer term and have additional
email/phone contact. It is essential that you have agreed a topic, objectives, method of
working and means on keeping in contact with your advisor over the summer vacation.
When you contact your advisor, it will be helpful if you can give them a summary of your
research proposal.
Structure and Content
The chapter headings and contents will vary according to your topic and approach. All
dissertations should start with the following sections:
Title Page
Acknowledgements
Contents (including lists of tables and figures as appropriate)
Abstract (a factual summary of about 300 words, describing the nature and scope of
your study, including an observation on the nature and significance of any findings)
They should all contain a full set of References, usually organised into a list at the end of
the Dissertation.
Whilst alternative formats are acceptable, the following gives an idea of the chapter
content of a conventionally structured dissertation:
Introduction – setting the scene, explaining the problem or issue, leading to a review of
the literature. It will nearly always include a statement of your aim, objectives,
research questions or hypotheses.
Literature Review – identifying the key literature, and including broadly relevant
publications which help set the context for your study, and more specific sources
relating to your detailed topic. Often, it is desirable to include a variety of types of#p#分页标题#e#
reference, such as refereed journal articles, books, professional press, official
documents and reports. Good literature reviews are often ‘themed’ according to the
key issues associated with your topic; often, they take a ‘funnel’ approach, starting
with a general contextualisation and progressively focusing on your selected topic,
showing how your study addresses a ‘knowledge gap’ within an important subject
area.
Method – discussing the alternative approaches to your topic that you have considered,
and selecting an approach which is rigorous and appropriate.
Results and Discussion – sometimes these are presented as separate chapters, but for
some types of topic it may be difficult to separate them. If you are doing a
‘positivistic’ kind of study, it is frequently helpful to set out your factual findings in a
Results chapter so that fact can readily be separated from opinion; objective analysis
of data may also be presented in such a chapter. ‘Discussion’ implies critical
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interpretation of your findings, and a reflection on their significance. As well as
reflecting on your results in their own right, you should also relate them back to your
literature review – your findings take on a significance insofar as they can be
‘positioned’ relative to wider knowledge and extend what was previously known
about a subject. Being able to identify and explain the significance of your findings is
usually a hallmark of a successful Dissertation. Equally, your Results and Discussion
may be enhanced by leaving material out! Your ability to exercise selectivity in what
material to include is often a sign of insight and good judgement.
Supervision
Your advisor will be available for tutorial support during the summer vacation. During this
period, they cannot be expected to be in the Department all the time or be available at
short notice: it is important, therefore, that you consult with your advisor regarding their
availability. If you find that your advisor is not responding to communications, it is
essential that you alert the Dissertation Coordinator as soon as possible.
Your advisor’s primary responsibility is to provide guidance on your research approach
and to answer queries where appropriate. If you are able to produce typed drafts of your
work, your advisor will, if given a reasonable amount of time, provide constructive
comment on style and content. Your advisor will not provide detailed written feedback or
correction of drafts.
Submission date
The dissertation must be submitted on the final day of the summer vacation following
completion of your taught programme.
Extensions may be given with appropriate documentation of mitigating circumstances. If
http://www.ukassignment.org/ you enter full-time employment on completing the Diploma, this will normally be sufficient
reason for seeking an extension, but this should not be taken for granted. Approved
extensions may be granted up to the first Monday on which the University re-opens
following the New Year closure.
Dissertations are to be handed in between 3-4 pm or posted by registered mail to Paul
Buck. Two copies of the Dissertation are required, and the Department will retain one.
Your Dissertation will be considered at an Examiners’ Meeting about one month after
submission date, and we cannot release your mark to you until it has been agreed at this
Meeting.
Marking and Feedback
Dissertations will be double marked according to the criteria contained in the attached
marksheet. In making judgements about a dissertation, markers will refer to the grade
criteria for written projects, set out in the Departmental Handbook.
Failed dissertations cannot be re-submitted.
We need to retain one copy of your Dissertation. If you wish to retrieve the second copy,
please collect it or make arrangements for its return as soon as possible after receiving
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notification of your mark; we cannot guarantee to retain uncollected Dissertations
indefinitely.
Production Details
Normally, the document should be in A4 format, typed, double-spaced, referenced in
accordance with standard protocols (normally Harvard or Modern Humanities), and
illustrated with line drawings, photographs and illustrations as appropriate. Margins
should be 25mm on all sides except the left, where 40mm should be allowed for binding.
Dissertations should be spiral bound. Any variation on this format should be agreed with
your Advisor, and should be based on sound academic reasons. However, non-standard
size documents create problems of submission and storage and we strongly prefer A4
format.
All illustrations should be appropriately captioned and numbered. In a conventional
Dissertation, illustrations should be labelled as Tables or Figures, and should be
numbered sequentially (e.g. Table 2.5, Figure 4.1). Any variation on this, for example to
identify design proposals, should be agreed with your Advisor.
Appendices may be included, but should not be used as ‘overspill’ for surplus text.
Markers may not read appendices as closely as the rest of your Dissertation, and so you
should not use them for crucial material which should have been placed in the main
body of the text. In cases of excessive length, markers will only read the first 10,000
words. In order to assist archiving and to enable markers to check word length, you
should also submit your dissertation as a CD.
The dissertation should be have permanent covers (e.g. card), and the front cover page
must contain the dissertation title, your name, and the month and year of submission.#p#分页标题#e#
Other Important Considerations
Health and Safety. Your attention is drawn to the Health and Safety statement in the
Departmental Postgraduate Handbook. Your dissertation may well involve independent
fieldwork or laboratory work, and you must complete a Risk Assessment Form with your
supervisor. If working out of hours (which is likely) you must have satisfied the
University’s requirements in this respect. When working in the field, give due
consideration to the risks of lone working, possibly in isolated places.
Equipment. If your project requires particular equipment and resources, you should
留学生大学申请essaydiscuss this with your advisor as soon as possible.
Research Ethics. You should discuss with your advisor whether your investigation
raises issues of research ethics. These must be addressed and resolved during the
initial meetings with your advisor.
Plagiarism. Given the nature of the dissertation – where you may be drawing
留学生大学申请essayextensively on previous work, personal communications or ‘secondary’ data – there are
particular risks of intentional or inadvertent plagiarism. It is important that you consult the
University’s policy on the Use of Unfair Means in the Assessment Process, contained in
the Teaching and Learning Support Unit’s handbook
http://www.shef.ac.uk/lets/design/unfair
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MARKSHEET USED FOR MA LANDSCAPE STUDIES/ MANAGEMENT
demonstrates clarity of purpose: a focused and relevant
topic, demonstrating good awareness and effective use
of how it can be executed within available time and
resources
clear unclear
shows clear relationship to, and is well informed by
knowledge from, the course
well informed poorly informed
demonstrates a postgraduate level of scholarly and
professional maturity and insight
perceptive superficial
student has stated aims, objectives, research questions
and/or hypotheses clearly and accurately
clear unclear
student draws upon an appropriate range of relevant
literature, whose significance relative to the purpose and
conclusions of the project has demonstrably been
understood
appropriate inappropriate
methodology is appropriate, valid and clearly justified sound flawed
project is written in an appropriate style, with good
grammar, spelling and expression, and is succinctly and
economically expressed
good style poor style
the project contains original findings or ideas, leading to
defensible and interesting conclusions that are linked
back to the literature in a reflective manner
original unoriginal
student exercises sound judgement in selecting pertinent#p#分页标题#e#
evidence and contextual information for inclusion,
demonstrating depth of insight and understanding
well-judged poorly judged
project is produced to a high scholarly and professional
standard, is well organised and structured, with sensible
use of appendices, diagrams, tables, etc., as appropriate
well presented poorly presented
留学生大学申请essaygeneral comments, including performance relative to postgraduate marking scale grade descriptors:
1st marker Name Mark
2nd marker Name Mark
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