University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 60

ECTS credits : 30

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: Full Year

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: To be arranged with the supervisor.

This project will involve extensive laboratory or field research to investigate a defined problem broadly within biology, psychology, or neuroscience appropriate to the degree programme being studied by each student. The project will involve diligence, initiative and independence in pursuing the literature, good experimental design, good experimental and/or analytical technique either in the field or the laboratory, and excellent record keeping. The project will culminate in the production of a high-quality report that demonstrates a deep understanding of the chosen area of research. Students will be allocated to a member of staff within the School of Psychology and Neuroscience who will guide and advise them in research activities throughout the academic year.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PN3312 and pass PN3313

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take any other project/dissertation module offered by the School of Psychology and Neuroscience

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Meetings with supervisor

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 567

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%. Re-assessment applies to failed components only.

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr G H Middleton
Module teaching staff: Various
Module coordinator email ghm@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop the ability to conduct a literature review and identify relevant sources of information.
• Develop skills to enable the asking of research questions or hypotheses that can be tested through data collection and analysis.
• Learn the research methods and tools to facilitate data collection and analysis.
• Communicate research findings clearly and effectively in written and oral formats.
• Demonstrate an understanding of ethical considerations in research and adhere to ethical principles throughout the project.
• Develop critical thinking skills by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different research approaches and methods.