Aims and Fit of Module

This module aims to provide guidance and training in the skills required for computing related research. It is also an opportunity for students to carry out a guided but independent work on an important computing problem by making appropriate use of the skills and methodologies learnt elsewhere in the programme.

Learning outcomes

A.	Critically evaluate scholarly work including their own work in terms of its contribution to the field of computer science.
B.	Conduct and critically analyse experimental work in computer science.
C.	Understand and be able to participate within the legal, social, ethical and professional framework.
D.	Demonstrate effectively the skills to structure, write and deliver formal presentations such as technical and research reports, adhering to relevant codes of practice.

Method of teaching and learning

In this module we wish to foster independent learning, within a framework that includes a series of lectures, seminars, tutorials and labs.
Formal lectures and tutorials: In order to convey the concepts and methods covered in this module, students will be expected to attend two to three hours of formal lectures or seminars in a typical week during Semester 1.
Seminars: These are intended to allow students to familiarise themselves with current research and allow them to report their analyses of these. In addition, some seminars will be based around guest lecturers from specialists on a CS topic.
Tutorials: These are intended to support students to complete assignments
Computer labs: These are intended to allow students to undertake practical exercises with the possibility of immediate feedback.
Private study: In a typical week students will be expected to devote 10 hours of unsupervised time to private study. The time allowed per week for private study will typically include 3 hours for reflection and consideration of lecture material and background reading and 7 hours for completion of the assessment tasks.