This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
LITERATURE SURVEY
Surveys using networked electronic information sources, on-line databases, inter-library loan facilities, private
communications, etc. Identification of a technical area worthy of research, definition of the state-of -the-art in a given field, definition of the research project, and research proposals. Patent search.
GENERAL ISSUES AND PRACTICE
Choosing the field of interest. Concept of originality. Research theories: background theory, focal theory, data theory. Contribution towards knowledge. Types of research project (blue sky, basic, applied and experimental research). Research uncertainty. Risk management. Research approaches.
RESEARCH PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Time management. Resources management. Project management software (MS Project). Use of logbooks. Data management. Data security. Team working skills.
RESEARCH PROCESS
MSc research projects. MPhil/PhD research projects. Academic research and industrial R&D. Project planning, proposals and budgeting. Design of experimental tests. Modelling and simulation.
RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS
Structure, content and procedures. Project reports and theses. Journal and conference papers. Technical
presentations. Use of references. Writing up of abstract, introduction and conclusions. Submission, refereeing and
amendments. Effective use of figures, drawings and tables. MS WORD, ENDNOTE and LATEX.
PRESENTATIONS OF RESEARCH RESULTS
Objectives and structure. Audience analysis. Rehearsal and delivery. Design of visual aids. Use of
computerized projection facilities. Multi-media approach. Poster design and poster presentation. Handling
questions.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Patents, patent rights and know-how. Copyright and copying. Design rights and registered designs. Research
contracts and agreements. Confidentiality agreement.
RESEARCH ETHICS
Ethics in engineering research. Research supervision. Modelling and simulation versus real experimental work. Processing and presentation of experimental data. Obfuscation in writing up research papers.
Total contact hours: 20
Private study hours: 130
Total study hours: 150
Assignment (10%)
Assignment (80%)
Assignment (10%)
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
1 Carry out a comprehensive literature survey on a selected topic using library and electronic information sources.
2 Identify the current status of a particular research area and define the state-of-art in that research area.
3 Identify and formulate further research, which could usefully be undertaken in a defined area of technology.
4 Plan a research project, including the definition of objectives, project management, experimental design and data collection and processing within time and resource constraints.
5 Undertake research using logical and effective methodologies.
6 Use common software packages for project management and presentation.
7 Communicate with peers by way of conference and journal publications.
8 Understand general issues concerning research including IPRs and research ethics.
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