Senior Lecturer in Creative Arts and Mental Health
Students have to identify a research question on which to conduct research and critically analyse the topic in the form of an essay. We believe there is value in personal experiences, therefore, students are encouraged to engage with their experiences and have them reflected in their academic work (keeping in mind any ethical requirements and academic standards). This ensures students stay in touch with their work throughout the semester.
Students are assessed on:
The use of sources appropriate to the research question (i.e relevant primary and secondary sources)
Critical engagement with the research material, including the use of productive examples or case studies, and the use of pertinent referencing to support your argument
How well the structure of the essay supports the overall claims being made
The presentation of the argument(s) in a coherent and persuasive manner
Written communication which must be presented in a clear and assertive style using a recognized citation system
Gives students the liberty to choose and work on a topic of interest in an area of their expertise
Prepares students for advanced research projects like dissertations. Essays can be used progressively towards writing a dissertation
Students get an opportunity to contribute knowledge in a sector/field they are passionate about
These essays encourage critical thinking
Teaches students to be more selective in terms of the topic and sources they consult
Puts new knowledge in conversation with other knowledge already produced
Encourages students to be inquisitive and ask meaningful questions that contribute to the body of knowledge in their field of interest
Students learn how to make arguments that add flesh to their work/research
• QMPlus
Students get feedback in the form of text comments on their essay submissions. Ongoing feedback is also provided during seminars in preparation for summative assessments
Can it be used face to face and/or online?
Online and face-to-face
Do you use it summatively or formatively?
Summative assessment
Even with technological resources like Turnitin, submissions can still be compromised. The biggest challenge is that students usually resort to lifting a greater potion of their essays from undergraduate submissions and other sources without proper acknowledgement or referencing.