CSMRS16-Research Studies

Module Provider: Computer Science
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Lily Sun
Email: lily.sun@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module covers key concepts, methods and techniques that are required in the process of a research project from the formulation of research problems to devise and validate outcomes.

Aims:

This module aims to enable students to understand and appreciate the different methods of scientific investigation and data analysis, including the selection and justification of qualitative and quantitative methods in research projects. Students should be able to employ appropriate methods to interpret and critically appraise research findings with respect to designing the research process, carrying out data analysis, devising solutions, validating outcomes, and evaluating research processes.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module the student should demonstrate the abilities of:

• understanding of methods and techniques employed in research;


• comparing and critically evaluating research materials from a wide range of literature sources;


• selecting and justifying suitable methods (e.g. qualitative and quantitative methods) for the analysis of materials;


• applying suitable approaches to data collection, research design an d validation of scientific results;


• considering and addressing ethical and professional issues;


• presentation and report writing.

Additional outcomes:

ÌýCritical thinking, creative problem solving, professional writing, and argumentation skills.

Outline content:

• Structure and plan a research project


• Choose research methods


• Formulate research questions/hypothesis


• Carry out literature review and reporting findings and critiques


• Collect and analyse qualitative and quantitative data in order to draw sound conclusions


• Address ethical issues involved in research


• Adopt mixed methods for design research (including methodology, experiment, result valid ation and verification)


• Write research reports

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module comprises lectures and seminar sessions. There is a major piece of coursework that enable students to demonstrate their understanding of the research methods, and application of the research methodology.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

N/A.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Two pieces of written assignment:

1. Literature review in relation to a chosen problem domain


2. A research project proposal in relation to a chosen problem domain

Formative assessment methods:

Formative feedback will be provided during the seminar sessions.

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 􀀓Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes􀀔, which can be found here: