student handbook 2017 master by project
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Table of Contents Part A: Introduction................................................................ 9 The Architecture Pathway, Construction Infrastructure and Engineering Network..... 10 Kia ora and Welcome.................................................................................................. 11 Staff............................................................................................................................. 12
Part B: The Programme......................................................... 15 Programme Aims and Learning Outcomes................................................................. 16 Programme Structure.................................................................................................. 17 Supervisors................................................................................................................. 21 The Research Proposal.............................................................................................. 22 Workshops.................................................................................................................. 25 Examination................................................................................................................ 28 Course Descriptors..................................................................................................... 34 Programme Regulations............................................................................................. 34
Part C: Appendices................................................................ 35 Appendix A: Maps ...................................................................................................... 36 Appendix B: Grades ................................................................................................... 39 Appendix C: Guidelines for the Presentation of Postgraduate Student Research...... 41 Appendix D: Guidelines for Thesis Writing of International Students ......................... 47 Appendix E: Course Strutcutre in Chinese Language ............................................... 51 课程结构（中文版）.............................................................................. 51
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Part A: Introduction
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The Architecture Pathway, Construction Infrastructure and Engineering Network A warm welcome to you at the start of your new design research programme. We are pioneers in design research, internationally and we are proud of what has been achieved in a short time. Please feel that you are part of a community that is here to support you. I’m sure you will enjoy your time, and that your study will provide a great platform for your creative future. Matthew Bradbury Aacademic Leader, Masters of Landscape Architecture (by Design Research) & , Master of Architecture (by Design Research)
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Kia ora and Welcome A research by design project involves the exploration of a research question through engagement in design. Research by design is a rigorous, reflexive process which generates, develops and refines a body of work informed by theory. At the same time, the theory is questioned, challenged and further developed. The research project therefore has two intertwined components: • a clearly articulated theoretical framework • the design of a new body of work Both of these are set out in your research proposal. As the project proceeds the theoretical framework may be refined or changed in response to the development of the design. At the end of the project you will critically appraise both the new work and the theoretical framework. We look forward to working with you this year.
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Staff The Master of Architecture (by Project) and the Master of Landscape Architecture Academic Leader is Matthew Bradbury. He can be reached at mbradbury@unitec. ac.nz (ext 7152). The Academic Leader is able to: • Provide advice and guidance for students; • Allocate appropriate interim supervisors and recommend principal and associate supervisors; • Nominate external critics to participate in workshops and examinations; • Support Supervisors in the administration of the candidates; • Convene Supervisors’ meetings on a regular basis; • Collate research proposals for presentation to the Proposal Approvals Committee; • Ensure feedback from the workshops is given in a timely manner; • Correspond with students as appropriate; • Track the progress of each student. The MbP Programme Administrator is TBA. The Programme Administrator is able to assist with: • Liaison with research approvals committee and research ethics committee; • Results and graduation queries; • Information about programme regulations, policies and procedures; • Provision of forms; • Details of workshops, seminars and examination sessions.
Supervisors Architecture Graeme Mconchie (gmcconchie@unitec.ac.nz) Chris Murphy (cmurphy@unitec.ac.nz) Dr Bin Su (bsu@unitec.ac.nz) David Turner (dturner@unitec.ac.nz) John Hewitt (jhewitt@unitec.ac.nz)
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Landscape AP Matthew Bradbury (mbradbury@unitec.ac.nz) Dr Hamish Foote (hfoote@unitec.ac.nz) Pete Griffiths (cgriffiths@unitec.ac.nz) Nikolay Popov (npopov@unitec.ac.nz) Daniel Irving (dirving@unitec.ac.nz) Sue Wake (swake@unitec.ac.nz) Xinxin Wang (xwang3@unitec.ac.nz) Other Important Staff Renee Davies - Dean of Engineering & Construction and Infrastructure, Engineering Network (rdavies@unitec.ac.nz) Brett Orams - Technician (Archtecture)( borams@unitec.ac.nz) Trina Smith - Technician (Landscape Architecture) (tsmith@unitec.ac.nz)
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Part B: The Programme
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Programme Aims and Learning Outcomes Programme Aim The aim of the programme is to produce graduates who have developed a theoretically sophisticated understanding of design through engagement in research by design. The students are expected to develop this understanding by undertaking a research project which involves creating a new body of work within a theoretical context and then critically appraising the new work and the theoretical framework which informed it.
Learning Outcomes On completion of the research project the candidate will be able to : 1.
Critically evaluate current theory and practice.
2. Devise a research question that requires the creation of a new body of works that is Informed by a clearly articulated theoretical framework. 3. Create new work in a manner which: - engages a theoretical framework; - entails rigorous intellectual analysis, criticism and problem solving, and - develops a critical relationship to the evolving body of work through critique of the work and incorporation of responses to that critique in successive iterations. 4. Critically appraise new work and the theoretical framework that informs it: - compare the work with that of others and contextualise it within contemporary practice and discourse; - critique the theoretical framework that informs the design and draw conclusions Regarding further development of that theory; - analyse the implications of the research for practice. 5. Communicate the outcomes of research by design to others and present a defence of the new work created and theoretical conclusions reached.
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Programme Structure Students may choose to study the MArch (by Project) and MLA (by Project) either full-time or part-time. The following timeline outlines the usual progress of a full-time student.
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The following timeline outlines the usual progress of part-time students.
All applicants must first have their candidature approved, and must then successfully complete three workshops before their final examination. Timing of candidature proposals, workshops and examinations depends upon whether the student is full-time or part-time.
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Orientation The programme begins with a combined Orientation Seminar for all new MLA and MARCH by Project students which will provide you with an introduction to Architecture programme staff, and your fellow students. In the first term of enrolment, all students attend a seminar series. This usually comprises a number of two-hour sessions, held once a week. The seminar series has a number of functions, such as: • Visit and stay on a Marae; ntroduction and exploration of current areas of critical theory; • Introduction to research and research methods; • Encouraging students to share research through presentation of work; • Providing guidance on how to frame up a research proposal. Full attendance of the seminar series is expected; • Introduction to the Te Aranga Principles.
Candidature Please note that when you first enrol into the programme you are a student but not yet a candidate. There is an important distinction between the two. In the first term of the programme, you will work towards developing your research question and associated methodology; this is a vital phase as it sets the stage for you to work effectively for the duration of your project. You will be supported by interim supervisors during this intense phase in submitting a sound, feasible proposal. At the ‘candidature workshop’ you will present your work to date to a panel of critics and fellow students, and a decision on whether to grant candidature will be made. When your research proposal is accepted by the Research Proposal Approval Committee, you are then a candidate. The time for completion of your project starts at this point (you must complete within three years for full-time students, and four years for part-time students). It is because time to complete your project is limited that the first phase of research proposal development is so important. Getting it right before you commence your research will give focus and direction to your work, greatly increasing the chances of successful and timely completion. 19
Consultation and tutorial support during this vital pre-candidature phase are available in several forms. These include your Interim Supervisor—an academic staff member chosen for his or her suitability to your area of interest, the seminar series and associated readings, and finally, input from other staff and peers.
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Supervisors Interim Supervisor The formal appointment of supervisors occurs on the acceptance of the research proposal. To support you in getting to this stage an interim supervisor is appointed. The Interim Supervisor’s role is to assist with the following: • the portfolio review and the identification of underlying themes; • the process of critical reflection through self-directed reading; • identification of a suitable research question; • identification of an appropriate research methodology; • the development of a quality research by design proposal; • check the completion of the appropriate forms. The Academic Leader will appoint an interim supervisor based on your probable area of research. It is expected that you will meet with your supervisor on a regular basis. Normally these meetings will occur once a week, in an individual meeting.
Approved Supervisors You will have both a Principal Supervisor and an Associate Supervisor. While it may be the case that your interim supervisor becomes one of your ‘official’ supervisors, this is not always so. The selection of suitable supervisors is determined through negotiation between yourself, the advisor/s and the Academic Leader, and centres on providing you with sound support in your area of interest. The Supervisors’ names are forwarded to the research proposal committee for approval, along with your research proposal. It may be the case that as the project develops over time one or both of your supervisors are no longer appropriate. It may also be that for personal reasons you (or the supervisor) may no longer wish to continue working with a particular person. A request to change a supervisor must first be submitted to the Architecture and Landscape Architecture Research Proposal Committee for consideration.
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The Research Proposal Development of the Research Project ‘Proposal’ In the first term of enrolment you will focus on developing your research project proposal. This requires you to work on several fronts. You will: • undertake a critical reflection of your practice to date; • participate in the seminar series; • commence a review of literature and contemporary practice relevant to your research. The outcomes of this phase of your work will contribute to your draft research proposal. Please see Moodle for more information on writing your research proposal. The writing of a clear, concise and focused research project proposal is the key to a successful research project. You are required to describe your research proposal, formulate a theoretical framework and set out the aims and objectives of the project. You must identify the scope of the research project, the site or location (if relevant) and the way it ties back to themes that have emerged from your reflection on practice. This requires a keen understanding of your research interest, and the development of a research question that will motivate and direct your project. During the first term you will have begun to review current theory and practice, and this must be included in your proposal. Your proposal also includes a description of the process that you will use to undertake the research, a research strategy or methodology. The seminar series will help you to decide what strategies, techniques and ‘tools’ you will use to develop your project. It is often helpful at this stage to rationalise your research project. A project rationale explains to whom your research is important, and why – its significance for your discipline, and perhaps the wider social relevance. It may also explain why you have chosen the particular research strategy you have proposed, why it is the best or most appropriate strategy for your project. Similarly, it may justify the particular theoretical milieu in which you have positioned your research project. You must also devise a title for your project – this may be a ‘working title’. The invention and development of your research proposal is possibly the most crucial phase of the whole project. Your research is built on this foundation, and the more specific and focused it is the better your research will be. If your area of research is 22
one where the issue of commercial sensitivity arises, you will need to discuss this with the Academic Leader before submitting your proposal. Please note that you must present your proposal and apply for candidature within twelve months of enrolment in the programme. If candidature is not granted within fifteen months of enrolment, your enrolment in the programme may be discontinued. The Academic Leader, in conjunction with the interim supervisor will decide if the proposal is ready to go to forward for approval. If the Research Proposal Committee requires changes to the proposal, it will be returned for amendment. You will be advised of the process for making amendments.
Ethics Approval Some approved research proposals must be submitted for ethics approval by the Unitec Research Ethics Committee. This process occurs after the acceptance of the research proposal unless it is apparent from the nature of the research that ethics approval should be secured beforehand. You should work with your supervisor/s to determine whether you need to complete an ethics application, and to ensure that your ethics application is sound. The Research Ethics Application forms are available from the Programme Administrator, and are also available from the Postgraduate centre.
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Project Development Once the research proposal has been accepted, you can start on the process of developing your project. You will continue to meet regularly with your supervisors who will offer guidance and feedback on your work. Crucial feedback will occur at scheduled workshops. During these workshops you will be exposed to a wide range of ideas, thinking and critique. Not only will you will be expected to present your own work, but you also must be present for the entire workshop, participating in the critique of other candidates. You must present your project at a minimum of three workshops during the development phase of your project and before the examination workshop.
Course Workload As per Regulations for Master Degrees with Research by Design Projects.
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Workshops Workshops are intended to give constructive critique of the work in progress. Students will present their own work and participate in the critique of the work of others. The purpose of the workshops is to provide a stimulating environment in which students from all disciplines are challenged to extend their thinking and move beyond current preconceptions. At each workshop, time will be allocated to each student to present their work-inprogress to the panel of assembled critics as well as their peers. Further time is then allowed for questions and critique. Feedback from the workshop is used to further refine your project. As your work progresses, the panel of critics will be looking for evidence that comments made at earlier workshops have been responded to in the work. The supervisor will collate comments from the panel for your reference. The panel will comprise visiting academics, prominent practitioners and staff. Other staff, students and professionals will be invited to comment. You are expected to participate fully in these workshops and to attend all sessions. Please note that you must successfully complete three workshops before being allowed to proceed to examination.
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The First (Candidature) Workshop At this workshop 15 minutes is allocated to each student to present their draft research proposal to the panel of assembled critics as well as their peers. A further 15 minutes is allocated for questions and critique. The draft research proposal should include: • the research question • contextualisation of the research project within current theory and practice relevant to your research area • the scope and intent of the proposed new work • an outline of the strategies or methods that will be used to explore the research question • factors you believe will be critical to the success of the project The proposal will be critiqued by a panel to assist you to ensure that: • the research question is clearly defined and posed within a workable theoretical framework • the methodology to be used is realistic, the required data is available, and the necessary resources can be accessed • the intended outcomes are achievable Feedback from the workshop is used to further refine the research proposal. A clear indication will be given to you from the workshop panel members as to which areas need further development.
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Workshop One Students presenting for their first workshop will have had their written candidature proposal approved, and are starting their research work. The expectations for workshop one are that the student will be able to articulate their research proposal, describe their literature search, citing significant case studies, and describe the theoretical field that they are going to locate their design research within. Some internal design investigation
Workshop Two Students are now roughly half way through their research project. The expectations for workshop two are that the student will be able to enunciate their research proposal in some detail; articulating the research question, describing the relevant parts of the literature search, describing their design methodology, be able to locate a site and produce a substantial amount of work to demonstrate how they will address the research question.
Workshop Three Students should have almost finished their design research project; they should be presenting an outline of the complete work from question to design. A definitive research question, the ability to locate the research within a field of relevant practice and theory. A clearly articulate process describing the evolution and development of the design methodology. A clear understanding of the choice of site and a design presentation where the student can clearly articulate the way in which the design work both embodies the methodology and address the research question.
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Examination The examination comprises two parts: exhibition and oral presentation of the new work, and submission of the exegesis, or explanatory documentation. Please note that you are required to submit all your work four weeks prior to the examination presentation. This will comprise three copies of the exegesis. Full details of the examination process are available from the Academic Leader or Academic Administrator. The final work presented for examination belongs to the student. This work is usually presented in a large format of some kind, which is not appropriate for institutional archiving purposes. The institution requires that one copy of all work presented for examination is kept and, to this end, you are required to submit a permanent record of your work in a format easy to store and access. The design work will form part of the explanatory document. The cost of this document will be paid for by the Research Office.
The Examination Process General Examination for full-time candidates must take place after the minimum period of candidature of one and a half calendar years from project approval by the Architecture and Landscape Architecture Research Proposal Committee and before completion of the maximum period of four years. Examination for part-time candidates must take place after the minimum period of candidature of two calendar years from project approval by the Architecture and Landscape Architecture Research Proposal Committee and before completion of the maximum period of four years. Candidates must apply for examination by completing the attached pro forma: The application for examination must be approved by the Academin Leader and your Principal Supervisor. Examination is carried out by a minimum of two examiners appointed by the Postgraduate Research and Scholarships Committee. At least one will be external to UNITEC. The submission for examination of your project comprises two parts: 1. The new work which is exhibited and presented 2. Submission of an explanatory document. 28
The Examination Process Examinations are scheduled by the Programme Committee. The following timeline applies: 1. At least eight (8) weeks prior to the examination, negotiate with your Supervisor the place, extent and details of the public exhibition of your work. 2. Eight (8) weeks prior to the examination hand in to the Programme Administrator you completed application for examination. 3. Eight (8) weeks prior to the examination complete your explanatory document and submit to a professional proof reader. Amend and correct document if necessary 4. Four weeks prior to the examination hand into the Postgraduate Research Administrator, three softbound copies of: - the explanatory document (refer separate guidelines) - signed declaration form 5. At the time advised by the Programme Committee set up your exhibition.
Public Exhibition and Presentation of New Work The exhibition and presentation of the candidate’s new work has two components:
The Exhibition This takes place at a time and in a location negotiated with the candidate and approved by the Programme Committee, normally in a gallery, exhibition space or other suitable venue at UNITEC. The exhibition will usually be in a place for a minimum of one week. The exhibition should be of an appropriate standard for the discipline and should articulate the research question, development and outcome of the research project in a concise and effective manner.
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The Public Presentation This takes place at the location of the exhibition at a time nominated by the Programme Leader. The presentation is given to an invited audience which will include the examiners, the cohorts, staff of UNITEC and members of the profession. The purpose of the presentation is for the candidate to explain to the examiners and audience the research question, the development and outcome of the research project, and for the examiners to be informed by the responses to their questions. - the session will be chaired by a person appointed by the Programme Committee: - the Chair will present the candidate to the session and describe the procedure for the presentation. A candidate will normally be allocated not more than 30 minutes for an oral presentation. Following each oral presentation, a further period, normally of 30 minutes, will be allocated for discussion which should be directed through the Chair; - immediately following the presentation(s), the examiners may confer privately on any aspect of the submission(s) and may recall candidates for further clarification. 6. The examiners each independently reach a conclusion as to your grade after considering your exhibition, your public presentation and your explanatory document (refer to Programme Regulation 11 for details of grading). 7. After completion of examination, your result will be declared unofficially and the Post Graduate board of Studies will formally notify you afterwards.
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The Examiners Report and Recommendation Each examiner is asked to provide a written report and to forward the formal Examiner’s Recommendation form within four weeks of the formal examination. This report includes: a) an overall evaluation of the substance and quality of the project (recognising its focus and the emphasis on applied research in the degree); b) an indication of particular strengths and weaknesses of such features as methodology, literature review, theoretical rigour, argument, interpretation and practical application significance; c) comments on particular strengths or weaknesses in the presentation. The Examiners Report will make one of the following recommendations. The project is: a) accepted and a grade awarded b) accepted and a grade awarded in accordance with 11.1 after minor amendments have been made c) resubmission d) fail
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The Explanatory Document This will cover the following matters:
Research Proposal The candidate will elucidate the research question and proposed method as set out in the original research proposal together with any subsequent amendments.
A review of current theory and practice This review should present a critical assessment of the current state of knowledge in the area of the project. While not all references in the field need be included, the review should be reasonably complete and should include most key references in the relevant area.
Critical Appraisal of the Finished Work and the Theoretical Framework The candidate should critically appraise both the finished work and the theoretical framework used to inform its design. The work should be compared with others and contextualised within contemporary practice and discourse. The influence of the theoretical framework on the design should be critiqued and conclusions drawn regarding further development of the theory and the potential of the theory to inform future practice. The candidate should demonstrate that they recognise the limitations of their study. They should make explicit the contribution of their work to the state of knowledge of the discipline.
Methodology From your literature and practice survey the candidate will develop and articulate a design methodology that had helped them to define the scope of the design work including the choice of site and the specific design techniques that have been employed
Design work Illustration of the design project in plan, section, elevation, perspectives, and model with explanatory text. The document will be no more than 10,000 words. Three copies of the exegesis are required to be submitted at least four weeks prior to the examination date.
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Once examination is successfully completed, ONE hard bound copies and one electronic copy must be submitted to the Research Office and Postgraduate Centre (one for the School, one for the Library and one electronic copy for Unitec’s institutional repository). The electronic copy must be identical to the hard bound copy. Extra copies should be produced for personal use if needed. See Guidelines for the Presentation of Postgraduate Student Research in the appendix.
Satisfactory Progress If you are ill, or unable to attend a workshop for some other legitimate reason, you may apply in writing to the Programme Committee to waive this requirement. The programme Committee may place conditions on the waiver.
Unsatisfactory Progress If you fail to demonstrate satisfactory progress, the Programme Committee may terminate your candidature. Before this happens, you will be invited to explain why candidature should not be terminated. See Programme Regulation 10 for further details.
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Course Descriptors You can find copies of the course descriptors (documents that contain information about aspects of the course such as aims, learning outcomes and reading lists) in the Master of Architecture ( by Project) & the Master of Landscape Architecture ( by Project) programme document. The Course descriptors can be referred to in the Master by Project Programmes administration office. You can photocopy these if you wish to have your own copy. Information on courses offered during the semester including aims, learning outcomes can also be viewed in the myCourseDetails.
Programme Regulations The Master of Architecture ( by Project ) and the Master of Landscape Architecture ( by Project) are governed by both the Unitec Generic Masters Regulations and the Regulations for Master Degrees with Research by Design Projectse. Copies of these documents are available on Moodle. If you have any questions about the regulations, please contact the Programme Administrator.
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Part C: Appendices
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Appendix A: Maps Map of Unitec-Mt Albert Campus
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Map of Building 1
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Map of Building 2
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Appendix B: Grades Grades The Research Project shall be graded according to the following scale: A+ 90 – 100 Pass A 85 – 89 Pass A- 80 – 84 Pass B+ 75 – 79 Pass B 70 – 74 Pass B- 65 – 69 Pass C+ 60 – 64 Pass C 55 – 59 Pass C- 50 – 54 Pass D 40 – 49 Fail E 0 - 39 Fail Projects shall be graded in accordance with this 11 point grading system, except that where a student’s first enrolment in the degree commenced prior to semester one 2004, that student shall not be awarded a grade of A-, B-, or C- for his or her project, being awarded instead a grade of A, B, or C respectively. A candidate who fails the examination with a grade of D may re-submit the work only once, with a maximum grade of C-. A+ Outstanding performance, all criteria met to a very high level, in particular the criteria related to critical analysis and originality. In-depth and significant discussion of relevant literature and design context. Evidence of advanced design ability and scholarship. Clearly articulated and thorough defence of research by design process. Exemplary treatment of research questions and data. Excellent level of appropriate communication and presentation. A Excellent. Applies critical reasoning. Clear evidence of originality and depth of understanding. Significant design solution that links with data and relates to wider literature and design context. Clear articulation of research question and design thinking, and thorough understanding of design process. Appropriate analytical techniques. Excellent level of appropriate communication and presentation. A- Evidence of originality and depth of understanding. Articulate presentation of design. Draws on a comprehensive literature and design context base. Clear articulation of research question. Minor errors that do not detract from overall substance of proposition or rigour of design. Clear understanding of significance of results. 39
B+ Thorough knowledge of topic area including literature. Design well argued and justified. Clear understanding of research by design process. Analysis of research question based on data and relevant theory base. Conclusions well supported and justified by data and theory base. Attention to scholarly conventions. B Candidate demonstrates substantial/good achievement. Sound discussion of methodology and its appropriateness. Well organised and presented design; competent research by design; presentation is carefully edited and well organised. Evidence of comprehensive use of literature. B- Little originality; design proposal meets research question, but lack of substantial critique; methodology discussed and justified; discussed and linked with theory base; design and literature integrated; adequate presentation. C+ Adequate description of design proposal. Has broad understanding of subject area and shows some skill in undertaking research by design. Adequate standard of presentation. C Candidate demonstrates satisfactory achievement. Demonstrates adequate skills in areas but several weaknesses in theoretical project design.. Adequate presentation of design. C- Not sufficiently developed; problems with theoretical argument; some understanding of design process shown and research questions addressed. Partial presentation of design. Major limitations in terms of theory base and/or research question and/or design. D Below acceptable standard of design and scholarship. E Demonstrates a general lack of understanding of key research question. Demonstrates a general lack of motivation in addressing the design.
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Appendix C: Guidelines for the Presentation of Postgraduate Student Research 1.0 Introduction This document indicates general guidelines for thesis/dissertation/research project presentation. Individual programmes may have their own degree-specific requirements. Candidates should check the requirements with their supervisors before embarking on their work.
2.0 Language There are two official languages in New Zealand: Te Reo Maori and English. Theses/ dissertations/Research Projects can be presented in either of these languages, except where Programme Regulations specify limitations.
3.0 General requirements 3.1 For examination purposes a candidate must submit three soft bound copies and an electronic copy of the thesis/dissertation/research project to the Research Office and Postgraduate Centre office. Upon submission the candidate will receive a receipt confirming number of copies and date of submission. 3.2 The copies of the thesis/dissertation/research project to be submitted for examination must be clearly legible, carefully edited and paginated. Any figures, photographs, illustrations, maps, graphs, charts, etc., contained in the thesis or dissertation must also be clear. Photographic reproductions should be consistent in all copies. 3.3 Theses, dissertations, and research projects will not be accepted for examination unless the student is enrolled in the relevant courses at the time he/she submits the work, and unless a signed Declaration Form is provided at the time of the submission (see below). 3.4 Once examination is successfully completed, one hard bound copies and one electronic copy must be submitted to the Research Office and Postgraduate Centre (one for the Library and one electronic copy for Unitec’s institutional repository). The electronic copy must be identical to the hard bound copy. Extra copies should be produced for personal use if needed.
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The preferred format of the digital (electronic) version is Microsoft Word. The following formats are acceptable: PDF Word (.doc for PC or .mcw for Mac) Rich Text Form (.rtf) HTML (.html) – only where work submitted is a website Where possible, the students should submit their entire thesis/dissertation/research project in one electronic file. For technical assistance email the Library - library@unitec.ac.nz
4.0 Style and format 4.1 Supervisors must be consulted for advice on departmental requirements and preferences. These are often specified in Programme Handbooks. 4.2 The recommended order of material in a thesis/dissertation/research project is as follows, however, supervisors should be consulted as to mandatory requirements: • Declaration Form (see below) • Title-page • Abstract • List of pre-publications (if appropriate) • Preface and/or acknowledgments • Table of contents • List of tables, figures, photographs, maps, illustrations, glossary, or abbreviations • Text • Bibliography/list of references • Appendices 4.3 Declaration Form See below 4.4. Title-page The title of the thesis/dissertation/research project should be centred in the top third of the title-page, and should describe the content of the thesis/ dissertation/ research project accurately and precisely. The author’s (candidate’s) full name is 42
centred in the middle of the title-page. Information regarding the degree, subject, tertiary institution, and date is centred in the lower third of the page. The preferred form of wording is: ‘A thesis (or dissertation or research project) submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of ........................................................ Unitec Institute of Technology, 20XX 4.5 Abstract Each copy of every thesis/dissertation/research project must include a short abstract which should not exceed 350 words in the case of a masterate, or 1000 words for a PhD. 4.6 Preface and/or Acknowledgments A preface may set out briefly the scope and purpose of the study, though the wording of the abstract may make this redundant. This section may include, or be confined to, acknowledgments, and in the latter case should be headed ‘Acknowledgments’. Persons or institutions acknowledged should be those who have contributed to the content of the thesis/dissertation/research project. 4.7 Table of contents This should list chapter titles and subheadings as required. If a thesis/dissertation/research project consists of more than one volume, the contents of the whole thesis/dissertation/research project should be shown in the first volume, and the contents of subsequent volumes in separate tables of contents in the relevant volumes. 4.8 Lists Tables, figures, photographs, maps and illustrations should be listed in a format acceptable to the discipline. 4.9 Abbreviations Any abbreviations used should be separately listed in this section. Place the abbreviation in a left-hand column, with the full form to its right. 4.10 Text This comprises the main body of the thesis/dissertation/research project. 4.11 Bibliography/List of References This section should be arranged alphabetically by author. The decision to 43
present either a bibliography (which lists items read and cited) or a list of references (which lists only cited items) should be negotiated with the candidate’s supervisor. It is important that citations be consistent in style, though the system chosen can depend on your subject field. Information on forms of documentation can be found in the Unitec Library or through your supervisor. 4.12 Appendices Any additional material which, although pertinent, does not fit conveniently in the body of the text may be included here.
5.0 Format 1: Paper and Binding 5.1 All copies submitted to the postgraduate office for examination are soft bound (three copies are submitted – allowing two copies for examiners and a further copy in reserve in case another examiner or an adjudicator is appointed). Once examination is successfully completed hard bound copies and one electronic copy need to be submitted as noted above. 5.2 Thesis/dissertation/research project cover The thesis/dissertation/research project title should be placed in the centre of the top third of the front cover. The candidate’s name should be centred in the middle of the cover. The year of submission should be centred in the bottom third. 5.3 Thesis/Dissertation/Research Project spine The candidate’s name and the year of submission should feature on the spine of the thesis/dissertation/research project, with the year placed to the right of the name. 5.4 Paper must be of good quality, and of a suitable texture and weight for the method of production and any reprography. A4 is usual, although other sizes in the ‘A’ range may be acceptable according to the requirements of the candidate’s department or supervisor. 5.5 Lines must be one and a half spaced and presented on one side of the paper only (single-sided copying). Margins should be adequate for binding (20mm on the left is standard). 44
5.6 Page numbers should be located in a consistent position throughout the thesis/dissertation/research project. They may be either centred at the bottom of the page, or appear at the top right corner of the page. The preliminary pages (title-page, abstract, preface, table of contents, list of tables, etc.) are usually numbered in lowercase Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, etc.) - the first page counted, but not numbered, being the title-page.
6.0 Format 2: Electronic format If an examiner indicates they wish to be supplied with an electronic version of the thesis/dissertation/research project, in addition to the printed version, candidates would then be requested to supply the thesis/dissertation/research project electronically or on CD-Rom. Any electronic version of the document supplied must be identical to the printed version (where possible).
7.0 Copyright Copyright belongs to the author, though modified by the special conditions outlined under Unitec’s policy on intellectual property. In general, matters of copyright are governed by the Copyright Act 1994.
8.0 Embargo Examined postgraduate research covered by Academic Policy 12 will normally be available for public access unless there are compelling reasons for restricting access to it. A work may be embargoed for a specified limited period if it contains confidential or sensitive material that might breach prior agreements with outside organisations, or it contains commercially sensitive information that might jeopardise an application for a patent, license or registration, or there are good reasons for non-disclosure of the contents consistent with the provisions of the Privacy Act (1993) or the Official Information Act (1982). A student may apply in writing to the Dean, Research for approval to embargo a work. The application shall outline the reasons for the embargo and provide evidence of the supervisor’s support for the application. Embargoed work shall be held with the office of the Dean, Research until such time as the embargo period has ended. The work shall then be lodged with the library.
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Declaration Name of candidate: This Thesis/Dissertation/Research Project entitled ………………………….. is submitted in partial fulfilment for the requirements for the Unitec degree of ………………………………………………. Candidate’s declaration I confirm that: • This Thesis/Dissertation/Research Project represents my own work; • Research for this work has been conducted in accordance with the Unitec Research Ethics Committee Policy and Procedures, and has fulfilled any requirements set for this project by the Unitec Research Ethics Committee. Research Ethics Committee Approval Number:
Candidate Signature: ……….…………………………………….Date: ………………… Student number: …………………………
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Appendix D: Guidelines for Thesis Writing of International Students This guide was designed for writing skills throughout the programme. Total time frame Study guide for Master1.5 by years, Projectabout Programme of international masters studystudents is approximately 3 workshops per stage in the (Total time frame is approximately 1.5 years, about 3 workshops per stage in the programme) programme. Ta Puna Ako (TPA) Learning Centre provides free services for students, This guide was designed for writing skills throughout the programme. Ta Puna Ako Learning Centre provides free services for students, such as workshops, appointments and drop in such as workshops, appointments and drop in sessions. Online resources at http:// sessions. Online resources at http://libguides.unitec.ac.nz/studytoolbox libguides.unitec.ac.nz/studytoolbox.
and key stage skills Milestones and Milestones key skills needed in each Enrolment
Develop your thinking
needed in each stage
Research
Candidature
Workshop
Workshop
Workshop
proposal
Workshop
One
Two
Three
Oral presentation
Structure your writing
Academic writing
Referencing
Library sources
Paraphrasing
Academic writing
Examination
Editing
Review of
Proofreading
chapters/edits/proofs
The Research Proposal (about 2 months) The Research Proposal (about 2 months) Overall outcomes
What is the research question? Why is it important? How to address it?
Writing outcomes
A proposal of future research work about 2,000-3,000 words
Key skills needed
Develop your thinking Academic writing Access and use research sources
Suggested workshops
Planning and writing a research proposal
(TPA Learning Centre)
Academic writing for postgraduate study Getting the most out of the library and its databases
Individual writing appointment for each piece of work
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Candidature Workshop (about 1 month to complete) Candidature Workshop (about 1 month to complete) Overall outcomes
Research question Contextualisation of the research project Scope and intent of the new work An outline of strategies or methods
Writing outcomes
15 minutes presentation (A ppt or pdf file with text, diagram and images to express your research proposal) Notes for your oral presentation
Key skills needed
Presentation skills Structure and order your speech
Suggested workshops
Oral presentations
(TPA Learning Centre)
Reading for postgraduate study Critical thinking
Individual writing appointment for each piece of work
Workshop One (about 2 months to complete) Workshop One (about 2 months to complete) Overall outcomes
Articulate research proposal Describe literature research Cite significant case studies Describe the theoretical field
Writing outcomes
Complete literature review chapter (approximately 3,000 words) 15 minutes presentation Notes for your oral presentation
Key skills needed
Structure your writing Referencing skills Paraphrasing skills
Suggested workshops
Literature review
(TPA Learning Centre)
APA referencing Endnote referencing software / Zotero reference software Paraphrasing: Writing effectively in your own words
Individual writing appointment for each piece of work
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Workshop Two (about 2 months to complete) Workshop Two (about 2 months to complete) Overall outcomes
Enunciate research details Describe design methodology Locate a site Produce design exploration
Writing outcomes
Complete methodology chapter (approximately 2,000 words) 15 minutes presentation Notes for your oral presentation
Key skills needed
Academic writing
Suggested workshops
Preparing a good thesis or dissertation
(TPA Learning Centre)
Long documentation for thesis/dissertation (MS Word) Research ethics: How to prepare a strong application
Individual writing appointment for each piece of work
Workshop Three (about 2 months to complete) Workshop Three (about 2 months to complete) Overall outcomes
Almost finish research project Present an outline of the complete work The design of chosen site embodies the methodology and addresses the research question.
Writing outcomes
Complete design and analysis chapter (approximately 5,000 words) Complete conclusion chapter (approximately 5,000 words) 15 minutes presentation Notes for your oral presentation
Key skills needed
Editing Proofreading
Suggested workshops
Learn how to proofread your own work
(TPA Learning Centre)
Writing appointments for feedback
Individual writing appointment for each piece of work
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Examination (about 2 months to complete) Examination (about 2 months to complete) Overall outcomes
Exhibition and oral presentation; Explanatory documentation.
Writing outcomes
Now you have almost complete the explanatory document with about 15,000 words 30 minutes presentation Notes for your oral presentation
Key skills needed
Review of chapters/edits/proofs Make sure there is no repeat and gap in your final thesis
Suggested workshops
Writing appointments for feedback
(TPA Learning Centre)
Find a proof reader for triple check
Individual writing appointment for each piece of work
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Appendix E: Course Strutcutre in Chinese Language 课程结构（中文版） 1. 迎新介绍会 开学之初，组织景观设计和建筑学的新生参加入学欢迎仪式，并简单介绍课程、教师和同学。 入学后的第一学期，所有学生将参加系列讲座。该讲座通常为每周一次、每次 2 小时，内容包括： 当前设计理论研究和探索；当前设计方法简介；如何写作研究计划书；学校为国际留学生提供 的服务设施简介。 2. 研究计划书 该研究计划书为整个研究生学习阶段最关键的部分。之后的研究和设计将以该计划书为基础， 进行扩展和深化。 一般通过 6-8 周的研究，完成研究计划书的初稿。计划书的内容包括：标题、研究问题、研究 目的、理论框架和研究方法。同时还应选择一个场地作为研究案例，确定研究范围和案例位置， 以及从哪些方面进行案例研究。 3. 评审会 • 候选人资格评审会 研究计划书初稿上交研究计划审批委员会，然后学生向参加评审会的专家和同行们汇报展示研 究计划。审批通过后该学生将具备研究生候选人资格，开始进行设计项目的研究。 • 评审会一 修改和完成研究计划书，以计划书为基础开始进行深入研究。本阶段的成果包括：陈述文献研 究结果；引用重要案例研究；描述设计项目在理论研究领域内的定位。 • 评审会二 基本完成研究项目的一半。能够对研究计划进行详细阐述。本阶段的成果包括：详细阐述相关 文献研究；系统描述设计方法；选定设计场地并进行设计方案探索；演示如何回答研究问题。 • 评审会三 基本完成研究项目，应该汇报和展示从问题到设计的全过程。汇报内容应展示：明确的研究问题； 在相关实践和理论领域内定位研究的能力；清晰地描述设计方法的演进和发展过程。对场地选 择和设计的正确理解，以及如何通过案例设计来体现设计方法和解决研究问题。 4. 毕业答辩 毕业答辩包含两部分内容：作品展览和口头汇报；提交说明或解释性文本。文本应在毕业答辩 四周之前上交，一式四份。 附：国际留学生支持服务 专业课辅导 讲师：王昕欣 xwang3@unitec.ac.nz 英语辅导 学习中心：电话 09 8154321 ext 8611
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