The course introduces students to some fundamentals of research methodology, and gives students first hand experience by having them carry out a small research project, under close supervision by a member of academic staff. The course comprises a series of lectures which cover the following topics: how to define a research problem; writing a research paper and report; how to give a seminar; the use of search tools and databases to find relevant literature; scientific methods in practice; design of an experiment. Students complete an individual research project which requires them to carry out background reading and literature review, and to prepare a research report and give a seminar at the end of the course.

After successfully completing this subject the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an ability to communicate in relation to an computing project in oral, written and graphical forms, with an an appreciation of the need to pitch any communication item appropriately for the audience. This includes demonstrated skills in the writing of abstracts and research papers.
2. Demonstrate an improved ability to use an active approach to learning and to undertake reflective professional practice.
3. Demonstrate an awareness of the existence of technological choices; and make appropriate choices based on a consideration of design criteria.
4. Demonstrate an ability to undertake and manage a research project of significant size and scope.
5. Understanding of the process of identifying and formulating research problems.
6. Ability to carry out literature searches and some ability to critically evaluate literature.
7. Design and conduct experiments, devise appropriate measurements, analyze and interpret data and form reliable conclusions.
8. Demonstrate awareness of the importance of documenting all aspects of the development of an computing project of significant magnitude.

Two assignments, worth 15% each. The project assessment is worth 70% and consists of the project report (65%), a seminar (15%) and other assessment items jointly agreed on by the student and supervisor prior to project commencement (20%).

A research project with a time commitment of approximately 90 hours, and two assignments with a time commitment of approximately 20 hours each. The projects take into account the student's background and the stage of their degree. Students are encouraged to meet with their supervisor on a regular basis (at least once a week).

Academic program BAC(R&D) or BAC(R&D)/BSc or Departmental consent.

None

Justin Zobel, Writing for Computer Science, 2nd Ed, Springer, 2004