Dissertation Prizes
The Solent Forum dissertation prize consists of two awards, one for an undergraduate and one for a postgraduate dissertation. The aim of the Award is to facilitate links between the Forum and the Solent's academic institutions and to encourage scientific research on the Solent. The Solent Forum are currently in the process of setting up a group of steering group members and local academics to help review the dissertation prize. The review is aimed at improving awareness of the prize which in turn will help encourage more students to submit projects.
Eligibility
All students, no matter the institution, may enter for the Award as long as they meet other criteria. The geographical area covered by the dissertation must coincide, either totally or partially, with the Solent Forum study area (Hurst Spit to Selsey Bill and the North coast of the Isle of Wight). The dissertation must also be on a coastal topic or theme, preferably on one of the topics covered in the Forum's Strategic Guidance for the Solent. Potential dissertations must be proposed by a tutor before they will be considered.
Timing
The next prize will be awarded in 2009. The time table is given below:
- April - Call for nominations for both undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations completed since the last prize was awarded.
- June - Reminder sent for end of June Deadline.
- July - Candidate dissertations are judged in the first week of July and the awards can be announced at graduation ceremonies where appropriate.
- September - Prizes awarded at the Autumn Solent Forum meeting
Judging
The judging panel will consist of nominated members of the Solent Forum. In case of dispute, the Forum Chairman will nominate an individual to make the final decision. To assist with judging, a copy of the dissertation is required and a single page summary that summarises its contents and the reasons for its nomination. Dissertations will be judged on the following criteria:
1. Relevance to the Solent
2. Thoroughness of research
3. Relevance to the Solent research agenda
4. Validity of conclusions
5. Presentation, consistency and clarity
The judges will nominate a winner in each category and may also 'highly commend' other high quality submissions.
Prize
The postgraduate winner receives a cheque for £200 and the undergraduate £100.
Undergraduate Winner, 2008
Winner: Thomas Southgate – University of Portsmouth
The panel was impressed with the high quality of Thomas’ research and the professional presentation of the work. They felt that his research project contained a good variety of datasets and was well written with strong arguments in the discussion.
Highly commended: Gemma Kaye – Southampton Solent University
Postgraduate Winner 2008
Winner: Jessica Craig – National Oceanography Centre
The panel felt that Jessica was very aware of the subject and argued her points well. The project was innovative and highly relevant to the Solent area. Once again the presentation of this project was of a very high standard.
Highly Commended 2008:
- Shelly Vince – National Oceanography Centre
- Hannah Goswell – Southampton University
