Research Project (Learning Outcomes)

This subject is not offered in 2015.

340 hours

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.

The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

In this subject, participants implement a research project allowing them to undertake a yearlong study of their classroom students’ progress. They are required to analyse and review student performance data and explore the impact of the various teaching and learning strategies on student achievement.

Throughout the year participants receive ongoing supervision from a member of academic staff through campus or school based group workshops. The research project culminates with participants synthesizing the findings of their research in a written form such as a conference paper, journal article or report. They are also expected to report findings to their school community.

On completion of this subject, participants should be able to:

• Carry out a substantial research-based project
• Demonstrate capacity to improve student achievement, engagement and retention
• Demonstrate capacity to lead and manage change through collaboration with others
• Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical issues associated with practitioner research
• Analyse data and synthesize research findings
• Report research findings in written and verbal forms
• Use research findings to advance education theory and practice.

• Preliminary Report (2,000 words) due end Semester 2, 20%
• Research Project (6,000 words) due end of Summer semester, 80%

Hurdle – Oral presentation of the report to relevant members the school community

Attendance at all classes (tutorial/seminars/practical classes/lectures/labs/online classes) is obligatory. Failure to attend 80% of classes will normally result in failure in the subject.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject, participants will have the knowledge, skills and understanding to enable them to:

• Apply critical thinking skills
• Apply foundational research skills to address a research question
• Demonstrate planning, time and change management skills
• Demonstrate leadership skills
• Undertake research independently
• Demonstrate a capacity to communicate research results clearly, comprehensively and persuasively.