Aims and Fit of Module

Students will carry out an individual project under the supervision of a member of academic staff. They will report findings both verbally and in writing. The purpose of the project is as follows. 
•	To provide students with the opportunity to plan, carry out and control a research project at the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice. 
•	To prepare students for research or investigative work as a professional engineer or computer scientist. 
•	To enable students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the techniques applicable to research. 
•	To make an original contribution to knowledge. 
The dissertation must provide evidence of the following. 
•	An in-depth understanding of the subject area chosen for the dissertation. 
•	A mastery of research techniques relevant to the topic area. 
•	The ability to collect and analyse empirical data. 
•	The ability to evaluate project outcomes. 

Learning outcomes

A. Demonstrate a critical awareness and understanding of the
relevant scientific literature associated with the project;
B. Understand all aspects of working as an engineer or computer
scientist in the planning, design and execution of academic or
technical activities to solve specific problems;
C. Define a problem, gather and evaluate research information,
manage risks, analyse data and propose new technologies;
D. Use appropriate analysis software, IT tools or research equipment
necessary to carry out relevant experimental, laboratory, or
workshop activities;
E. Effectively communicate project work and findings through a
formal presentation and/or structured dissertation thesis.
Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with
technical and non-technical audiences and evaluate the effectiveness
of the methods used;
F. Demonstrate understanding and participation in the legal, social,
ethical and professional framework in systems, software or
information engineering;
G. Design solutions that evidence some originality and meet a
combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as
appropriate. This includes the consideration of applicable health &
safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and
commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards.

Method of teaching and learning

Regular meetings/consultations with supervisor; laboratory and other investigative work under direct/indirect supervision (as appropriate); preparation of project specification and final thesis, poster or web-page and oral presentation.