CSMPR16-MSc Project

Module Provider: Computer Science
Number of credits: 80 [40 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: CSMRS16 Research Studies
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: v.k.ojha@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Students enrolled on MSc Advanced Computer Science have to do a dissertation project, which is a major component of the study programme, worth 80 credits (out of a total 180 credits). The student must pass this module in order to be awarded an MSc degree. 

Aims:

The aim of the dissertation is to allow MSc students to define and execute a piece of research on a specific topic of their choice, with direction from an academic supervisor, and to effectively communicate their findings in an appropriate form.

This module also encourages students to develop a set of professional skills, such as problem solving;  creativity and critical thinking; hypothesis generation and testing; literacy; action planning and decision making; self-reflection; negotiation and persuasion; and organisation and time management; professional communication (with supervisors and peers); initiative and self-motivation; software design and development; effective use of commercial software; end-user awareness; presentation skills and technical report writing for technical and non-technical audiences.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Students are set a major research project which they have to plan and execute, and to present both orally and in written form. The assessment will be on the basis of a written dissertation and by an oral presentation and examination.

Additional outcomes:

Design, build and test a specified system; project management, organisational and presentation skills.

Outline content:

This is the main MSc project, which must be done individually and contain an element of original work. The project will usually be allied to some current research done in the Department/School.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Students are provided with guided reading on generic research methods. The students work independently, with direction from an academic supervisor. The self-directed nature of study for this model should encourage students to be resourceful in their search.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

None.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Dissertation report (90%), and Presentation and demonstration (10%)

Formative assessment methods:

Feedback will be provided throughout supervision and research activities.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:
Students are required to contact the module convenor to determine the specified assessment component(s). Submission of the specified assessment component(s).

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 9 September 2019