MASTER OF APPLIED SCIENCE
KGA802
Master of Applied Science, Thesis Geography and
Environmental Studies Streams
KGA808
Master of Applied Science, Thesis (part-time)
Geography and Environmental Studies Streams
KGG802
Master of Applied Science, Thesis Remote Sensing
and GIS Stream
KGG803
Master of Applied Science, Thesis (part-time)
Remote Sensing and GIS Stream
Unit Guide
Semesters 1 & 2
2010
Unit coordinator
Dr Kevin Kiernan
School of Geography & Environmental Studies
Faculty of Science Engineering and Technology
CRICOS Provider Code: 00586B
Contact details
Unit coordinator
Dr Kevin Kiernan
Campus and location
Hobart Geography-Geology Building, Room 441
e-mail:
Kevin.Kiernan@utas.edu.au
phone:
(03) 6226 2461
fax:
(03) 6226 2989
Consultation hours:
If you have any problems with any section of the unit, do
not hesitate to contact me by phone or email. If I happen
to be out of my office, please leave a message on the
answering machine and I will get back to you as soon as
possible.
Contents
Unit summary
Learning outcomes
Generic graduate attributes
Unit schedule
The thesis
Specific attendance/performance requirements
Submission of thesis
Requests for extensions
Penalties
Academic referencing
Further information and assistance
Occupational health and safety
Details of Research Proposal
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Produced by the School of Geography & Environmental Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart,
Tasmania, Australia.
Unit summary
Unit codes & titles
KGA802 Master of Applied Science, Thesis (Geography and Environmental Studies)
KGA808 Master of Applied Science, Thesis (part-time)
KGG802 Master of Applied Science, Thesis (Remote Sensing and GIS)
KGG803 Master of Applied Science, Thesis (part-time)
Unit descriptions
These units comprise the research component of the Master of Applied Science. In
total, this research comprises either one quarter (50% of 200%) or one third (50% of
150% if entering at an advanced level) of the requirements for the Master of Applied
Science degree. The research is carried out under the guidance of a supervisor, or
supervisory panel. The results of the research are reported in a minor thesis which is
assessed by two examiners, at least one of whom is from outside the University.
Coordinator
Dr Kevin Kiernan
Campus & modes
Hobart, On-campus
Unit weights
KGA802/KGG802 50%; KGA808/KGG803 25% is each semester
Teaching pattern
Meetings with supervisors, seminar presentation
Pre and
Corequisites
At least 75% of successfully completed coursework units in the Master of Applied
Science
Mutual exclusions
Nil
Assessment
20,000 – 30,000 word thesis
Learning outcomes
On completion of these units, you should be able to demonstrate that you have:
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identified a suitable research topic;
developed a research proposal that indicates the context, scope, significance, objectives
and methodology of the work;
accessed, organised, presented and evaluated current knowledge relevant to the
research;
conceptualised problems and where appropriate formulate solutions;
applied methodologies appropriate to the research in relation to specific research
questions or objectives;
adopted and applied data analyses appropriate to the research;
discussed the results of the research in relation to their implications, significance and
limitations;
further developed skills in academic presentation and writing; and
defended the method, outcome and/or interpretation of the work.
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Generic graduate attributes
This unit will contribute to developing the following generic attributes.
Knowledge
Graduates will develop an in-depth knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge in
practice. In particular, they will have the capacity to:
 apply technical and information skills;
 understand the limitation of, and have the capacity to evaluate, their current knowledge;
 learn both independently and cooperatively;
 learn new skills and apply learning to new situations.
Communication Skills
Graduates will be able to communicate effectively across a range of contexts. They will have
the capacity to:
 demonstrate written communication;
 present well-reasoned arguments;
 access, organise and present information.
Problem-solving Skills
Graduates will become effective problem-solvers, capable of applying logical, critical and
creative thinking to a range of problems. They will have the capacity to:
 identify critical issues in the discipline or professional area;
 conceptualise problems and formulate a range of solutions;
 work effectively with others;
 find, acquire, evaluate, manage and use relevant information in a range of media.
Unit schedule KGA802/KGG802 for Thesis undertaken within Semester 1
Date
Nov 09-Jan 10
1 February 2010
22 February 2010
8 March 2010
8 March 2010
28 May 2010
After examination
4 June 2010
Tasks
Make an appointment with Course Coordinator to discuss topic
selection and supervisory team
Commence research, confirm enrolled correctly, attend induction
Submit Masters Plan
Submit Research Proposal & Budget (see details given on page 7)
Present Research Seminar (introductory) optional
Submit Thesis
Make any changes as required by the School
Present Research Seminar (concluding) optional
Unit schedule KGA802/KGG802 for Thesis undertaken within Semester 2
Date
May 10- Jun 10
12 July 2010
2 August 2010
16 August 2010
16 August 2010
15 October 2010
After examination
22 October 2010
Tasks
Make an appointment with Course Coordinator to discuss topic
selection and supervisory team
Commence research, confirm enrolled correctly, attend induction
Submit Masters Plan
Submit Research Proposal & Budget (see details given on page 7)
Present Research Seminar (introductory) optional
Submit Thesis
Make any changes as required by the School
Present Research Seminar (concluding) optional
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Unit schedule KGA808/KGG803 for Thesis undertaken across Semesters 1 and 2
Date
Nov 09-Jan 10
1 February 2010
22 February 2010
8 March 2010
12 April 2010
16 August 2010
15 October 2010
After examination
22 October 2010
Tasks
Make an appointment with Course Coordinator to discuss topic
selection and supervisory team
Commence research, confirm enrolled correctly, attend induction
Submit Masters Plan
Present Research Seminar (introductory) optional
Submit Research Proposal & Budget (see details given on page 7)
Present Research Seminar (introductory) optional
Submit Thesis
Make any changes as required by the School
Present Research Seminar (concluding) optional
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The thesis
Thesis – n. a proposition laid down or stated, esp. one to be discussed and proved or to
be maintained against objections. 2. a subject for a composition or essay. 3. a
dissertation, as one presented by a candidate for a diploma or degree, esp. a
postgraduate degree …
The aims of a thesis are to:
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encourage the candidate to develop the ability to acquire relevant information on a
particular field from the published literature and to synthesize a systematic and logical
review which identifies key issues, concepts and theory;
provide practical research training through a specialized project to facilitate the design
and conduct of future investigations in the chosen field and related areas;
develop skills in critical analysis of published material and newly collected information,
identifying significant issues and limitations or shortcomings in the available
information;
develop written skills to a level appropriate for preparation of professional reports and
preparation of a paper suitable for submission to a refereed journal;
develop oral communication skills to a level appropriate for the delivery of a
presentation at a national conference; and
prepare candidates for undertaking higher degrees by research and professional
working careers.
Assessment of Masters Coursework Theses
By their thesis performance candidates must demonstrate that:
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they are familiar with the appropriate literature and are able to reference material
correctly;
they can plan and conduct a research program suited to the research question or
hypothesis proposed;
their assessment of their own work, and that of others, is critical, perceptive, and
constructive; and
they can communicate well in writing and are able to organize their information and
arguments into an academic thesis.
In addition, candidates should show that they can at least generally recognize, use, and
integrate relevant contributions from more that one discipline for application to the
investigation. Examiners are asked to note, however, that this approach is more or less
practical and advisable depending on the topic, and there may be circumstances where a
single-disciplinary focus is appropriate for environmental research.
Two examiners normally carry out the examination of the thesis; one may be internal to the
School but may not be the supervisor. The Committee may appoint a third examiner if there is
a discrepancy between the original assessments. Each examiner is asked to assess the
thesis, give a grade out of 100, and write up to a page of relevant constructive comments on
the strengths and weaknesses of the thesis. Examiners will consider the:
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Quality of all sections of the work, including abstract, chapters, bibliography and
appendices
Research question, aims and significance
Convincing interpretation of an appropriate literature
Effectiveness of engagement with theoretical/conceptual material
Correct and consistent citation method in text
Description and justification of research methods
Evidence that methods are planned, systematic and comprehensive
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Evidence of careful, thorough and accurate conduct of research
Appropriate, logical and defensible data analysis
Quality and consistency of argument
Appropriate indication of limitations and challenges to research
Appropriate indication of new and potential research
Clear prose supported by correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
Correct presentation of figures, tables and plates
Readable and appropriate layout of whole document
Complete and accurate reference list
The grades adopted for your thesis will be:
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less than 50 per cent fail;
50 to 59 per cent pass or equivalent to third class honours;
60 to 69 per cent credit or equivalent to lower second class honours;
70 to 79 per cent distinction or equivalent to upper second class honours; and
80 per cent and above high distinction or equivalent to first class honours.
If you wish, you may make corrections to your thesis in response to the examiners’
comments. Note that your grade is determined on the basis of the thesis that you originally
submitted for examination, even if you subsequently make changes to this version. Note also
that if you choose to make corrections, this may delay the date of your graduation.
Candidates are normally advised of the identity of examiners once the examination process is
complete; however, an examiner may request to remain anonymous. The examiners’ reports
will be made available to the candidate. Examiners should not communicate directly with the
candidate about the thesis. Examiners are asked to complete their assessment of the thesis
within six weeks, although a quicker assessment would be much appreciated.
The Faculty of Science and Technology policy regarding examination can be found at
http://www.scieng.utas.edu.au/scieng/policies.asp.
Specific attendance/performance requirements
Students are required to undertake all the tasks, attend the meeting and present a seminar as
indicated in the Unit Schedule. Failure to complete these requirements without approval of the
unit coordinator may result in failure of the unit.
Submission of thesis
Printing
You must print three (3) copies of your thesis, this is to be arranged through Uni Print. You
will need to collect an IDR form from Mrs Paulene Harrowby (Administration Manager) before
taking your thesis to Uni Print, preferably on a memory stick or CD in PDF format. The
document must be in one file only. The IDR form will authorise Uni Print to charge the School
for the cost of printing and binding your thesis.
Soft binding and submission
Three (3) soft (thermal) bound copies of your thesis must be submitted to the Graduate
Programs Support Officer (GPSO) in Room 316 for examination in Hobart on the due date.
Launceston candidates must submit three (3) soft (thermal) bound copies to Dr Greg Unwin.
The thesis must contain a signed statement of authenticity. Uni Print can complete the soft
binding, however be aware that this may take several days depending on how busy they are
at the time.
Examination, corrections, re-printing and final binding
The Graduate Programs Support Officer (GPSO) will notify you once your thesis has been
examined, at which time you may collect the soft bound copies and written comments by
examiners. You should then make an appointment with your supervisor to discuss the
examiners comments and make any necessary corrections.
Once final corrections are complete you will need to print four (4) copies of your thesis, again
this is to be arranged (as above) through Uni Print. Remember to collect an IDR form from
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Paulene beforehand. Your thesis (4 copies) will need to be hard bound at either Uni Print or
another binder of your choice, discuss this with Paulene. You must provide evidence of
submission of your four (4) copies (to be hard bound) to a book binder before your result will
be released to the exams office. Evidence of submission must be given to the GPSO in Room
316 in Hobart, or Dr Greg Unwin in Launceston, usually in the form of a receipt from the book
binder. Please ask Uni Print to deliver your hard bound copies to the School. Upon return
from the binders, one copy of the hard bound thesis will go the Morris Miller Library, one to
the SGES Resource Centre, one to the Masters supervisor and one to the Masters candidate.
Requests for extensions
You should make every effort to submit your thesis on the due date. However, due to
circumstances beyond your control, delays may occur. If you have a legitimate personal or
professional reason for not meeting the submission date, you may apply for an extension from
the unit coordinator. Documentary evidence of the grounds for the application must be
provided. An Application for Extension is available online at
<http://www.geol.utas.edu.au/geography/documents/Request%20for%20Extension%20pg.pdf
>.This application (together with supporting documentation) must be approved by your
supervisor and the Honours Coordinator and submitted to the Graduate Programs Support
Officer (Room 316). IMPORTANT: Any approved extension may directly affect your eligibility
to graduate, please contact the Graduate Programs Support Officer for clarification.
Penalties
The standard arrangement for late penalties in the School of Geography and Environmental
Studies is that, unless an extension has been approved, late submissions will attract a penalty
of 2 percentage marks per day (including weekends and public holidays). These rules apply
to this unit.
Review of results and appeals
Information about mechanisms for review of results is available on the Faculty of Science,
Engineering and Technology website (http://fcms.its.utas.edu.au/scieng/scieng/policies.asp).
See, particularly: Teaching & Learning Operational Guide No 6: Requests from Students for
Review of Assessment.
Academic referencing
In your written work you will need to support your ideas by referring to scholarly literature,
works of art and/or inventions. It is important that you understand how to correctly refer to the
work of others and maintain academic integrity. Failure to appropriately acknowledge the
ideas of others constitutes academic dishonesty (plagiarism), a matter considered by the
University of Tasmania as a serious offence.
The appropriate referencing style for this unit is given in: Presenting material in Geography
and Environmental Studies, which provides guidance on how to reference, how to write
well, assessment criteria, and how to incorporate illustrations into your work. This guide is
available from the “Helpful information for staff and current students” section of the School
website: http://www.geol.utas.edu.au/geography/index.htm
For information on presentation of assignments, including referencing styles:
http://www.utas.edu.au/library/assist/gpoa/gpoa.html
Please read the following statement on plagiarism. Should you require clarification please see
your unit coordinator or lecturer.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a form of cheating. It is taking and using someone else's thoughts, writings or
inventions and representing them as your own; for example, using an author's words without
putting them in quotation marks and citing the source, using an author's ideas without proper
acknowledgment and citation, copying another student's work.
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If you have any doubts about how to refer to the work of others in your assignments, please
consult your lecturer or tutor for relevant referencing guidelines, and the academic integrity
resources on the web at http://www.utas.edu.au/tl/supporting/academicintegrity/index.html.
The intentional copying of someone else’s work as one’s own is a serious offence punishable
by penalties that may range from a fine or deduction/cancellation of marks and, in the most
serious of cases, to exclusion from a unit, a course or the University. Details of penalties that
can be imposed are available in the Ordinance of Student Discipline – Part 3 Academic
Misconduct, see http://www.utas.edu.au/universitycouncil/legislation/
The University reserves the right to submit assignments to plagiarism detection software,
and might then retain a copy of the assignment on its database for the purpose of future
plagiarism checking.
For further information on this statement and general referencing guidelines, see
http://www.utas.edu.au/plagiarism/ or follow the link under ‘Policy, Procedures and Feedback’
on the Current Students homepage.
Further information and assistance
If you are experiencing difficulties with your studies or assignments, have personal or life
planning issues, disability or illness which may affect your course of study, you are advised to
raise these with your unit coordinator degree coordinator in the first instance.
There is a range of University-wide support services available to you including Teaching &
Learning, Student Services, International Services. Please refer to the Current Students
homepage at: http://www.utas.edu.au/students/ Should you require assistance in accessing
the Library visit their website for more information at http://www.utas.edu.au/library/
Occupational health and safety (OH&S)
The University is committed to providing a safe and secure teaching and learning
environment. In addition to specific requirements of this unit you should refer to the
University’s policy at: http://www.admin.utas.edu.au/hr/ohs/pol_proc/ohs.pdf Please note the
following special arrangements within the School of Geography and Environmental Studies:
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All students undertaking practical work are required to complete a medical declaration
form and return it to the School secretary.
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All students using any one of the School’s laboratories should access and read the
School’s Laboratory Protocol, which can be accessed under the “Safety and
Wellbeing” heading on the “Helpful information for staff and current students” section of
the School website: http://www.geol.utas.edu.au/geography/index.htm
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Details of Research Proposal
Research Proposal
Task
description
In consultation with your supervisory team, develop a specification for your research
that includes:
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a title;
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the context in which the work will take place;
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the potential significance of the work;
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objectives and/or research questions or hypotheses;
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methodology; and
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budget and timeline.
Task length
1500-2000 words
Links to
learning
outcomes
This assignment addresses the learning outcomes related to:
Assessment
The research specification will not be graded, but it is a requirement of the unit to
undertake and complete the specified task.
Date due
See the relevant Unit Schedule on page 2
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identifying a suitable research topic;
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developing a research specification that indicates the context, scope,
significance, objectives and methodology of the work.
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