Unit 34 – Research Project

Completing a piece of research is an opportunity for students to showcase their intellect and talents. It integrates knowledge with different skills and abilities that may not have been assessed previously, which may include seeking out and reviewing original research papers, designing their own experimental work, solving problems as they arise, managing time, finding new ways of analysing and presenting data, and writing an extensive report. Research can always be a challenge but one that can be immensely fulfilling, an experience that goes beyond a mark or a grade, but extends into long-lasting areas of personal and professional development.

This Module includes:

  • 1 Workbooks
  • 4 Assignments

Description

This unit introduces students to the skills necessary to deliver a complex, independently conducted research project that fits within an engineering context.

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to deliver a complex and independent research project in line with the original objectives, explain the critical thinking skills associated with solving engineering problems, consider multiple perspectives in reaching a balanced and justifiable conclusion, and communicate effectively a research project’s outcome. Therefore, students develop skills such as critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, interpretation, decision-making, information literacy, information and communication technology literacy, innovation, conflict resolution, creativity, collaboration, adaptability and written and oral communication.


Learning Outcomes

By the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Conduct the preliminary stages involved in the creation of an engineering research project.

Setting up the research preliminaries:
Project proposal
Developing a research question(s)
Selection of project approach
Identification of project supervisor
Estimation of resource requirements, including possible sources of funding
Identification of project key objectives, goals and rationale
Development of project specification

2. Examine the analytical techniques used to work on all stages of the project and strategies required to overcome the challenges involved in a research project.

Investigative skills and project strategies:
Selecting the method(s) of collecting data
Data analysis and interpreting findings
Literature review
Engaging with technical literature
Technical depth
Multi-perspectives analysis
Independent thinking
Statement of resources required for project completion
Potential risk issues, including health and safety, environmental and commercial
Project management and key milestones

3. Reflect on the impact the research experience could have in enhancing personal or group performance within an engineering context.

Research purpose:
Detailed statement of project aims
Relevance of the research
Benefits and beneficiaries of the research

4. Explore the communication approach used for the preparation and presentation of the research project’s outcomes.

Reporting the research:
Project written presentation
Preparation of a final project report
Writing research report
Project oral presentation such as using short presentation to discuss the work and conclusions

Additional information

Workbooks

1

Assignments

4

Workbook Sample