Enrolment options
Summary of the module:
This module on research methodology aims to assist students to plan well and execute their final year projects. It addresses the essential concerns of the structure, conduct and reporting of research that necessarily includes proposal writing also. It covers the constituent considerations and ordering of problem identification, assumptions, justification, scope, limitations, organization, literature review and information sources, objectives, hypothesis setting and testing, research questions, theoretical and conceptual frameworks, research design, design of experiments (including manufacture of prototype or experimental rig), sampling, research methods, data collection methods, field tools and techniques, techniques of data measurement, statistical as well as computer supports for data analysis, interpretations, conclusions, recommendations and implications as well as financial and time budgeting (Scheduling and Gantt Charts). Technical report writing and approaches to referencing are also given emphasis.
Learning outcomes of the module:
A. Knowledge & Understanding:
Having successfully completed the module, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
A1. The meaning and purpose of research in computer engineering
A2. The importance and relevance of methodology in inquiry
A3. The scientific method and the value of scientific theory in inquiry
B. Cognitive/ Intellectual Skills/ Application of Knowledge:
Having successfully completed the module, students should be able to:
B1. Identify and delineate a researchable problem.
B2. Conduct a critical review of relevant literature
B3. Develop consistent theoretical and conceptual frameworks
B4. Prepare effective, valid and reliable research designs.
B5. Assemble usable field tools that reflect practical data measurement scales.
B6. Obtain credible representative field data.
B7. Carry out competent automated statistical analysis.
B8. Abstract convincing inferences from observed data trends
B9. Prepare readable research reports that adhere to convention
C. Communication/ ICT/ Numeracy/ Analytic Techniques/ Practical Skills:
Having successfully completed the module, students should be able to:
C1. Write effective project and research proposals.
C2. Conduct repeatable scientific inquiry
C3. Disseminate research results conventionally through seminars, conferences and reports
D. General Transferable Skills:
Having successfully completed the module, students should be able to:
D1. Undertake lifelong self-learning in the relevant and related areas.
D2. Produce relevant and true reports