This module aims to reinforce, in a research context, the student’s knowledge and practical skills acquired from the taught modules, whilst further...

This module aims to reinforce, in a research context, the student’s knowledge and practical skills acquired from the taught modules, whilst further developing their teamwork and leadership skills. The module will run over two terms and consist of a research project with an assistive or rehabilitative technology theme. The project will develop the student's skills in planning, design, implementation and critical evaluation in an assistive technology/rehabilitative context, drawing upon their acquired knowledge from other modules in the MSc programme. In addition, the module aims to develop the student's communication skills in both written and oral form, as well as further forming their teamwork and leadership skills through practice.

The MPA Individual Project can be selected as an option with prior project approval from the department. It is an alternative to the Group Project (STEP0035),...

The MPA Individual Project can be selected as an option with prior project approval from the department. It is an alternative to the Group Project (STEP0035), the default option for the final project, a major component of UCL STEaPP’s MPA programme. The Individual Project is enabling students to work individually on a real-world policy challenge with the support of UCL STEaPP faculty. This option may specifically suit candidates who already have a partner organisation to work with, do not need a project partner for their project or are working towards doctoral studies.

The topic of this project will be developed by the student, with the support from a STEaPP supervisor who has expertise or knowledge of the area. The student may originate this project from their own area of interest (which they may have developed during the MPA), or their own academic and professional expertise. They may also develop a project relevant to their employer/other sponsor or on a topics suggested by another external organisation (although projects which involve an external organisation will usually be required to include an external, secondary supervisor).

Through the project process, candidates will integrate, apply and deepen the knowledge and skills acquired during the MPA curriculum. Over the course of the project, candidates will sharpen capability in engaging with the design of their project, strengthen their data collection and analysis skills, hone their critical thinking, develop their written and oral communication.

The Individual Project will be assessed via a 10,000w written submission (in recognised form for either a dissertation or policy analysis) and a formal presentation of their work at the end of the programme.