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Research Methods (COMP90044)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 2
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AIM

“The aim of scientific research is to produce new knowledge. To be useful, new knowledge must be able to stand up to critical scrutiny, and its presentation to other researchers and/or to the public must be persuasive. This subject is an introduction to the processes of science as they apply to computing and related disciplines, including designing experiments, locating relevant literature, writing papers, giving presentations and refereeing. Underlying all of these, the subject will foster the development of critical thinking, a skeptical, scientific perspective, and scientific ethics. This subject will be particularly useful for students contemplating undertaking a research degree, or for students currently enrolled in a research degree (MPhil or PhD).”

 

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Introduction to research methods and being a researcher; research writing; reviewing and refereeing; reading and assessing literature; research planning; empirical methods; research presentations; statistical methods; ethics.

Intended learning outcomes

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILO)


Having completed this unit the student is expected to:





  • Explain the principles of scientific research
  • Describe and appreciate the roles of rigour and skepticism in producing results of high impact
  • Explain the ethical guidelines governing academic research
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and experience in research planning, analysis of research, experimental methods and written and spoken communication.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject students should have the following skills:

  • Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation, and solution
  • Ability to utilise a systems approach to complex problems and to design and operational performance
  • Ability to manage information and documentation
  • Capacity for creativity and innovation
  • Ability to communicate effectively both with the engineering team and the community at large.

Last updated: 3 November 2022