Order Details;
Research Project – Unit Abstract
This unit is designed to enable learners to become confident using research techniques and methods. It addresses the elements that make up formal research including the proposal, a variety of research methodologies, action planning, carrying out the research itself and presenting the findings. To complete the unit satisfactorily, learners must also understand the theory that underpins formal research.
The actual research depends on the learner, the context of their area of learning, their focus of interest and the anticipated outcomes. The unit draws together a range of other areas from within the programme to form a holistic piece of work that will make a positive contribution to the learner’s area of interest.
Learners should seek approval from their tutors before starting their research project and must comply with the DG Code of Research Conduct.
Research Proposal
It is useful that you choose a topic you like and what you already have some academic knowledge. Your own past projects can be a good starting point to look for topics that capture your interest and that you can develop further. Also, you can search for topics that interest you through an initial literature search.
A research proposal serves a great deal of purposes. The proposal is a coherent statement of research intent, which entails that you will be able to express exactly what you are going to research. The proposal will also serve to convince your audience that your research is worthwhile and achievable within the timeframe and available resources. In a real life context, a proposal is the evidence of a contractual obligation by two parties: the researcher and the client.
Content of a Research Proposal:
- Title
- Background/Problem Statement/Literature Overview
- Research Question and Objectives
- Methodology (research design and data collection)
- Timescale
- Resources
- Ethical statement
- References
- Bibliography
You can find some good examples of the content of a research proposal; the style of writing and its purpose.
DGHE SCHEME OF WORK
| Module: Unit 8: Research Project: Part One | ||
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Module Tutor: Andreia Areal |
Level: 5 |
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| Teaching Weeks: 10 | Hours per Session/week: 3 hours per week
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| Learning Outcomes (LO) | ||
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1. Understand how to formulate a research specification
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2. Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to specification
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3. Be able to evaluate the research outcomes
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4. Be able to present the research outcomes.
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Aim
To develop learners’ skills of independent enquiry and critical analysis by undertaking a sustained research investigation of direct relevance to their Higher Education programme and professional development.
Unit abstract
This unit is designed to enable learners to become confident using research techniques and methods. It addresses the elements that make up formal research including the proposal, a variety of research methodologies, action planning, carrying out the research itself and presenting the findings. To complete the unit satisfactorily, learners must also understand the theory that underpins formal research. The actual research depends on the learner, the context of their area of learning, their focus of interest and the anticipated outcomes. The unit draws together a range of other areas from within the programme to form a holistic piece of work that will make a positive contribution to the learner’s area of interest. Learners should seek approval from their tutors before starting their research project.
The first terms deals with the preparation phase and the development of a research proposal
Policy and Regulations
This Scheme of Work must be read in conjunction with the Student Handbook and Regulations copies of which are available from College Management and are published for your convenience on the College VLE Moodle. All attendance, academic misconduct and College policy and regulations will be strictly enforced.
| Week | Learning Outcome(s) Covered | Topics/ Activities | Reference/ Resources/ Methods |
| 1
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LO1 |
Overview of course and assessments
· Aims of objectives · Scheme of Work · Learning outcomes · Moodle and resources · Research problems and how they relate to debates in research methods · Nature of business and management research · Research diary and critical friend · Case Study |
· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips
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| 2
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LO1 |
Formulating and clarifying a research topic
· Characteristics of a good research topic · Turning research ideas into research projects · Research questions, aims and objectives · Scope of research and limitations · Characteristics of a good researcher · Benefits and self-development · Case Study
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· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips
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| 3
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LO1 | Critically reviewing the literature
· Definition of a literature review · Critical thinking and reading · Secondary and primary sources · Conducting a literature search · Writing a literature review · Confirmation of research question objectives and questions · Plagiarism and Harvard referencing · Case Study |
· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips
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| 4
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LO1 | Critically reviewing the literature (seminar and lab)
· Annotated bibliographies, reference lists and bibliographies · Research articles · Online research · Open access journals · Practical Harvard referencing · Advanced Google and academic search engine |
· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips |
| 5
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LO1 | Formulating the research design – data collection
· Research strategy · Research philosophy · Data collection methods- introduction · Introduction to population definition and sampling · Credibility of research · Pre Test and Pilot studies · Case Study Task 1 and 2: Formative Feedback |
· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips |
| 6
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LO2 | Negotiating Access and Ethics in research
· Access issues in data collection · Research ethics · Ethics at each stage of the research process · Video: Mischief
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· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips |
| 7
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LO2 | Formulating the research design – data analysis
· Analysing and presenting quantitative data · Analysing and presenting qualitative data · Managing total error · Discussing findings in relation to analysis · Structuring a research proposal – introduction · Case Study |
· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study · Lecturer hand outs · Video / You Tube clips |
| 8
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LO2 | Structuring a research proposal
· Writing a research proposal · Estimating time and resources · Contracting with external agencies – research specifications · Review of example proposals · Case Study
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· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study t |
| 9
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LO2 | Reflection and personal development
· Overview of reflection · Reflection in practice · Transferable skills · Critical friend input · Reflective essay · Case Study
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· Scheme of Work · Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study
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| 10
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LO1,
LO2, |
Seminar and Revision
· Review of course · Guest speaker / documentary · LO3 and LO4 discussion and next stages · Group work discussion · Question and answer
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· Scheme of Work
· Assessment Guide · BPP Business Essentials Research Project · Saunders et al. Research Methods for Business Students · Greener, S. Business Research Methods · Lecture slides · Case Study
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| 11 | LO1 and LO2 | Submission of Task 3 and Task 4 | NA |
INDICATIVE RESOURCE MATERIALS
| Core Text Books
· Business Essentials: (available in the library) · BTEC Business Study Guide: Level 4 and 5 (available in the library) · Greener, S. Business Research Methods, Bookboon. (available in online library) · Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2009) Research Methods for Business Students, Fifth Edition. FT Prentice Hall (available in library)
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| Key Books
· Gill, John and Johnson, Phil (2002), Research Methods for Managers, FT Publishing · Jankowicz, A (2005), Business Research Projects, Chapman and Hall. · Bryman, A (1998), Quantity and Quality in Social Research, Routledge, London · Bryman, A and Bell, E (2008), Business Research Methods, Oxford University Press · Hague, P (1993), Questionnaire Design, Kogan Page. · Yin, Robert (2003), Case Study Research: Design and Methods, Sage Publications, Newbury Park.
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| Journals/ Magazines
· Academy of Management; · Sloan Management Review; · Harvard Business Review;
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HNC/D Assignment
Assignment Front Sheet
| Qualification | Unit number and title | ||
| Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma Business | Unit 8: Research Project: Part One | ||
| Student name | Assessor name | ||
| Andreia Areal | |||
| Date issued | Completion date | Submitted on | |
| Week 1 | Formative Submission: 26/10/2015
Summative Submission: 14/12/2015 |
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| Assignment title | Unit 8: Research Project: Part One | ||
| Learning Outcome |
Learning Outcome |
Assessment Criteria | In this assessment you will have the opportunity to present evidence that shows you are able to: | Task no. |
Evidence (Page no) |
| LO1 | Understand how to formulate a research
specification |
1.1 | Formulate and record possible research project
outline specifications
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1 | |
| 1.2 | Identify the factors that contribute to the
process of research project selection
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1 | |||
| 1.3 | Undertake a critical review of key references
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2 | |||
| 1.4 | Produce a research project specification
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| 1.5 | Provide an appropriate plan and procedures for
the agreed research specification
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4 | |||
| LO2 |
Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to specification.
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2.1 | Match resources efficiently to the research
question or hypothesis
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| 2.2 | Undertake the proposed research investigation
in accordance with the agreed specification and procedures
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4 | |||
| 2.3 | Record and collate relevant data where
appropriate
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4 | |||
| LO3 – TERM TWO |
Be able to evaluate the research outcomes |
3.1 | Use appropriate research evaluation
techniques
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| 3.2 | Interpret and analyse the results in terms of
the original research specification
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| 3.3 | Make recommendations and justify areas for
further consideration
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| LO4 – TERM TWO | Be able to present the research outcomes | 4.1 | Use an agreed format and appropriate media to present the outcomes of the research to an audience.
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| In addition to the above PASS criteria, this assignment gives you the opportunity to submit evidence in order to achieve the following MERIT and DISTINCTION grades | |||
| Merit descriptors | Indicative characteristics | Contextualised Indicative characteristics | |
| M1 | Identify and apply
strategies to find appropriate solutions |
An effective approach to study and research has been applied
Complex problems with more than one variable have been explored |
Answers reflect that effective judgments have been made about the topic choice, scope of the work and resources. The answers show that an effective approach to study and research has been applied within the scenario e.g. comparing features, theories and models comparison etc. |
| M2 | Select/design and apply
appropriate methods/techniques |
Relevant theories and techniques have been applied. A range of sources of information has been used | An accurate standard method has been used in defining information sources is well justified and summarized. Evidence of a wide range of sources from journals and recognised secondary sources to support statements and justify conclusions.
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| M3 | Present and
communicate appropriate findings |
The appropriate structure and approach has been used. A range of methods of presentation have been used and technical language has been accurately used | An accurate standard for presenting information has been used in terms of diagrams, charts, tables that are clearly referenced and relevant with appropriate discussion and interpretation. |
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Distinction descriptors |
Indicative characteristics | Contextualised Indicative characteristics | |
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D1 |
Use critical reflection to
evaluate own work and justify valid conclusions |
Conclusions have been arrived at through synthesis of ideas
and have been justified Self-criticism of approach has taken place
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Proper evaluation and justification shown in all discussion and relevant conclusions have been arrived at thorough synthesis of ideas following each section of writing. Awareness of limitations of theoretical perspectives clearly stated and evidence of understanding of their impact on the research is clearly stated. Student was able to critically reflect on his or her own learning and address areas for personal improvement. |
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D2 |
Take responsibility for
managing and organising activities
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Autonomy/independence has been demonstrated | Tasks have been attempted with minimal assistance provided by the lecturer. Effective time management and evidence of reflection on learning journal. Excellent time management.
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| D3 | Demonstrate
convergent/lateral/ creative thinking |
Innovation and creative thought have been applied. Self-evaluation has taken place | Ideas have been generated and proper evaluation and decisions taken based on facts gathered with research. Realistic recommendations for further research have been made. |
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SUMMARY OF GRADES
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| In order to achieve a pass in a unit |
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| In order to achieve a merit in a unit |
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| In order to achieve a distinction in a unit |
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| Learner declaration |
| I certify that the work submitted for this assignment is my own and research sources are fully acknowledged.
Student signature: Date: |
| Assignment brief | |
| Unit number and title | Unit 8: Research Project |
| Qualification | Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma Business |
| Start date | Week 1 28.09.2015 |
| Deadline/hand-in | Week 11: 14.12.2015 |
| Assessor | Andreia Areal |
| Assignment title | Unit 8: Research Project Part One |
| Purpose of this assessment
This unit develops learners’ skills of independent enquiry and critical analysis by undertaking a sustained research investigation of direct relevance to their Higher Education programme and professional development. |
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| Scenario
Congratulations! You have been appointed as a consultant to Curiosity Consultants Ltd. The company offers research and consultancy services to SMEs and micro-businesses in London.
Your manager Mr T Tutor, is a hard task master and has identified that you need to hone your skills by carrying out a business research project related to a business problem in the portfolio of businesses that Curiosity Consultants Ltd consults to. For this reason Mr T Tutor seeks a structured series of tasks to be completed that culminates in a proposal for his approval. He is also keen on your personal development and for that reason has requested a reflective essay to help with your career ambitions.
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| SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE
Word processed notes in font Arial 11, 1.5 spacing with cover sheet, reference list and appendices as required.
ALL TASKS MUST BE RELATED BACK TO THE SCENARIO
The assessment comprises SIX tasks to be completed during the course
TASK 1: 500 word essay justifying a topic. Due Week FIVE TASK 2: Resources as a base for literature review: Due Week FIVE TASK 3: 500 word reflective essay on learning and contribution to career: Due Week ELEVEN TASK 4: 2000 word research proposal: Due Week ELEVEN
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TASK 1 (Formative): Essay: Due Week FIVE
Understand how to formulate a research specification
1.1 Provide a short profile of the consulting client and identify and explain the research problem. 1.2 Explain how research might benefit the client 1.3 Outline the preliminary aims, objectives and scope of the proposed research
NOTE: This is the task on which you will receive written formative feedback to assess the suitability, feasibility and acceptability of the topic. The revised version (where applicable) should be submitted as a summative for formal summative grading.
Word count: 500 |
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| TASK 2 (Formative): Resources: Due Week FIVE
Understand how to formulate a research specification
2.1: Create an annotated bibliography where you identify key literature sources to address the problem identified in Task 1. 2.2: Explain how potential limiting factors and scarce resources might impact upon achieving the output of the Gantt chart.
NOTE: This is the task on which you will receive written formative feedback to assess the suitability, feasibility and acceptability of the topic. The revised version (where applicable) should be submitted as a summative for formal summative grading.
Word count: 500 |
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| TASK 3 (Summative): Reflective Essay: Due Week ELEVEN
Understand how to formulate a research specification Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to specification
3.1: Explain the importance of reflection in practice 3.2: Reflective on transferable skills development during the term 3.3: Comment on how these skills might contribute to your career development
Word count: 500 |
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| TASK 4 (Summative): Research Proposal Due Week ELEVEN
Understand how to formulate a research specification Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to specification
Draft a research proposal to address the business problem identified in Task One. You must make good use of as many of the references identified in Task 2 in your writing.
Word count: 2000
This Assignment Brief must be read in conjunction with the Student Handbook and Regulations copies of which are available from College Management and are published for your convenience on the College VLE Moodle. All attendance, academic misconduct and College policy and regulations will be strictly enforced.
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Achievement Summary
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Qualification |
Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Business |
Assessor name |
Andreia Areal |
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Unit Number and title |
Unit 8: Research Project |
Student name |
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| Criteria Reference | To achieve the criteria the evidence must show that the student is able to: | Achieved?
(tick) |
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| LO1 | Understand how to formulate a research specification
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| 1.1 formulate and record possible research project outline specifications
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| 1.2 identify the factors that contribute to the process of research project selection
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| 1.3 undertake a critical review of key references
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| 1.4 produce a research project specification
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| 1.5 provide an appropriate plan and procedures for the agreed research specification
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| LO2 | Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to
Specification
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| 2.1 match resources efficiently to the research
question or hypothesis
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| 2.2 undertake the proposed research investigation in accordance with the agreed specification and procedures
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| 2.3 record and collate relevant data where appropriate
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| LO3 / LO4 | TO BE EVALUATED IN THE FOLLOWING TERM
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Higher Grade achievements (where applicable)
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Grade descriptor
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Achieved? (tick) |
Grade descriptor |
Achieved? (tick) |
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| M1: Identify and apply strategies to find appropriate solutions
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D1: Use critical reflection to evaluate own work and justify valid conclusions | |||||||
| M2: Select / design and apply appropriate methods / techniques
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D2: Take responsibility for managing and organising activities | |||||||
| M3: Present and communicate appropriate findings
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D3: Demonstrate convergent/lateral/creative thinking | |||||||
Assignment Feedback
| Formative Feedback: Assessor to Student
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| Action Plan
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| Summative feedback
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| Feedback: Student to Assessor
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Assessor signature
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Date |
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Student signature
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Date |
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