Beginning Philosophical Research - PHI00016C
Module summary
Each student on this module is tasked with running their own independent research project into a philosopher and topic of their choosing. Once a philosopher has been selected, each student will be supported by a research supervisor, a member of our faculty, through a series of one-on-one tutorials as well as through feedback offered on formative tasks. By the end of the semester, each student will have produced a 1000-word annotated bibliography as well as an academic poster on their philosopher. The purpose of this poster is to provide the student with an opportunity to find ways of effectively communicating complex information in a concise and accessible way. In the final point of assessment, each student will deliver a fifteen-minute oral presentation (with Q&A) on the topic of their poster. This module is designed to help students develop as independent researchers, as well providing an opportunity to develop their presentation skills.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 2 2025-26 |
Module aims
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To enable students to carry out independent research into philosophical topics of their choosing.
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To build knowledge of significant philosophers, and key philosophical themes.
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To develop methods for effectively communicating philosophical ideas outside of the traditional format of the academic essay.
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To develop the skills of research, independent thinking, and time management
Module learning outcomes
By the end of this module students should be able to …
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undertake independent research projects.
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articulate and defend their philosophical views in an academic essay.
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present their research as an academic poster, making efficient use of the format to convey complex information in a concise and accessible way.
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present their research orally, and field questions in response to their presentation.
Module content
This module is designed to help students develop as independent researchers.
Students will run their own independent research project into a philosopher of their choice. Students will be supported by a research supervisor, but the students are in charge of leading their projects. At the end of their projects, students will produce a 1000-word annotated bibliography as well as an academic poster on their philosopher. The purpose of this poster is to provide the student with an opportunity to find ways of effectively communicating complex information in a concise and accessible way. Students will also give an oral presentation on their poster.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 70.0 |
| Oral presentation/seminar/exam | 30.0 |
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
Formative assessment: Poster plan to be submitted at a date agreed with module convenor
Summative assessment:
Summative 1 - Poster & Annotated bibliography 70
Summative 2 - Oral Presentation of poster 30%
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 70.0 |
| Oral presentation/seminar/exam | 30.0 |
Module feedback
All formative and summative feedback will be returned in accordance with University and Departmental policy.
Indicative reading
Key texts will depend upon the topic and philosopher chosen.