Course overview
This course will introduce the fundamental concepts and practice of engineering research and enable students to undertake a major research project in a specialist area of engineering. Students will learn about why research is carried out and how undertaking it results in establishing new knowledge, products, and processes in all fields of engineering. They will gain an understanding that the reliability and, therefore, impact of knowledge is determined by how it is developed, including the choice of methods and maintaining research integrity. This requires researchers to be aware of what is already known (context and literature), carefully design the approach (i.e., methodology and methods), and correctly interpret their results to develop conclusions that can be relied on. They will learn how to write a project proposal that identifies the research questions / hypotheses, aims and objectives, methods of data collection and analysis, ethics and safety, and a research plan. Students are expected to continue the same project started in this course when undertaking the subsequent related project course.
Course learning outcomes
- Determine and respond to client requirements through application of engineering knowledge, techniques, established engineering methods, design and project management processes. (PO 1, 3, 4, 5, 9) (EA 1.3, 1.5, 1.6, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4)
- Use and manage information in a professional context and be aware of common document identification, tracking and control procedures. (PO 2, 9) (EA 1.4, 3.4)
- Apply creative approaches to problem solving, identify and critically appraise information, processes, current developments and advanced technologies in their area of specialisation. (PO 2, 4, 9) (EA 1.4, 3.3, 3.4)
- Critically review published literature and determine, develop and implement the most appropriate designs or solutions. (PO 1, 2) (EA 1.3, 1.4)
- Function independently or as an effective member or leader of a diverse engineering team and demonstrate ethical conduct and professional behaviour and accountability. (PO 6, 8) (EA 3.1, 3.6)
- Present a professional image and demonstrate self awareness and effective communication skills appropriate for professional practice. (PO 7, 9) (EA 3.2, 3.5)