A8100C Academic Research and Writing

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Evaluate the relative merits of statements of thought, opinion, fact, belief, and knowledge.
2. Analyse arguments in readings drawn from a range of theological disciplines to identify valid conclusions based on authentic evidence.
3. Access and process with critical empathy a diverse range of relevant primary and secondary theological research resources.
4. Construct evidence-based arguments in a range of theological disciplines.
5. Produce a cogent piece of extended critical writing utilising appropriate critical methods and academic presentation conventions.

This unit will provide students with skills in planning and executing basic research tasks, critical thinking, academic paragraph writing, editing, proofreading, and formatting for consistent referencing.

1. Reflective Evaluation (15%)
   Word Limit: 900
   Due: Week 4
2. Intertextual Document Analysis (25%)
   Word Limit: 1500
   Due: Week 7
3. Skeleton Argument (15%)
   Word Limit: 900
   Due: Week 9
4. Essay (45%)
   Word Limit: 270
   Due: Week 12

• Pantuso, Terri, Sarah LeMire, Kathy Anders, and Kalani Patison, eds. Informed Arguments: A Guide to Writing and Research. 4th ed. College Station, TX: The Texas A&M University System Open Digital Publishing, 2023 (available online).

Optional Textbook:

• Burroughs, Chloe. The Return to Study Handbook: Study Skills for Mature, Distance and Workplace Learners. London: Kogan Page, 2019.