Writing Course and Project Description

Postgraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

The course get the student to start early with his/her master thesis through writing training and practical insight in the research process. The course aims at offering students more insight in the writing process behind a successful master thesis by working with a project proposal for the future master thesis. The project proposal forms the basis for the master thesis and the allocation of a supervisor.

Learning Outcomes

Having completed the course the student should be able to:
  • choose relevant knowledge in geographic research related to his/her specialisation within geography
  • choose a topic for a Master's thesis, develop and narrow it down to a clear researchable question that can be investigated within the given time and resource limits.
  • carry out an independent project with the support of a supervisor.
  • argue scientifically, structure a Master¿s thesis and follow good scientific use of references.
  • carry out a systematic search in the library, in scientific and other data bases, and interpret and evaluate data and literature critically.

Level of Study

Master level

Semester of Instruction

Autumn
Required Previous Knowledge
Admitted to Master in Geography or Master's in Resources and Human Adaptations.
Access to the Course
Reserved for Master in Geography or Master's in Resources and Human Adaptations. GEO310 is obligatory for both Master's in Resources and Human Adaptations and Master´s program in Geography.
Teaching and learning methods

Lectures, seminars and assignment in a 2 week intensive course in August/September.

Total: 4-5 lectures á 2 hours pr. week - 9 lectures

1 seminar with presentations in December

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
Two assignments: During the first phase of the course in August, a 'thought paper' (1-2 pages: first week) with the aim to elaborate theme, perspective and argument, and a project draft (4-6 pages: second week) which seeks to develop the project towards a scientific problem, including important references. Oral seminar presentation (30 minutes)
Forms of Assessment

A project description of 10-12 pages, containing an elaborate description of theme, aim/justification of the project, scientific problem, and a brief outline of research design, methodology and planned schedule.

Grading Scale
Grading: Pass/fail
Assessment Semester
Autumn
Course Evaluation
GEO310 will be evaluated minimum every third semester