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IAS503 - Independent Study

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Social Science

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

In this unit, students develop and extend their studies into areas of specific interest or applicability to their chosen profession. The study must demonstrate an examination and interpretation of the literature along a question aligned to issues that draw upon and extend their studies. The unit introduces students to frameworks to structure a project and strategies to manage the process to investigate a chosen topic for in-depth study. Students also develop skills in how to communicate their findings in a report and presentation. Students are required to manage the process of the research work. Students must consult with the Unit Coordinator prior to enrolment.

Important Information

Online enrolment is not available for this unit. To enrol, complete the Special Enrolment form accessed via the eForms tile through CDU Portal.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Research a chosen area of interest to build a knowledge base and depth of understanding.
2.	Critically evaluate constructs or theories relating to the discourse in a specific chosen area of study/research.
3.	Apply critical reasoning to relevant resources to the study/research in question.
4.	Apply research skills to the planning and writing a short dissertation.
5.	Critically analyse and apply protocols and ethical practices in introductory research work.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Proposal (500 words)	10%	1,2
2.	Research Report or Creative Work (4,000 words or equivalent)	60%	1,2,3,4,5
3.	Presentation or Reflective Piece (20-25 mins or 1,500 words)	30%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 1	Internal	Danala - Education and Community Precinct	OLR	View
2026	Semester 1	External	External Studies	OLR	View
2026	Semester 2	Internal	Danala - Education and Community Precinct	OLR	View
2026	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR	View

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
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