INMR63-MRes Dissertation (Informatics)

Module Provider: Business Informatics, Systems and Accounting
Number of credits: 100 [50 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: k.nakata@henley.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

A dissertation is considered to be the primary instrument in developing the research capability of students and providing research training on the MRes programme. A dissertation project is an independent piece of research work in the MRes programme in Informatics and considered to be the most important element in the programme as it demonstrates the student’s knowledge and skills in terms of the subject area and academic research. It is normally conducted by an individual student guided by an academic supervisor in the chosen specialised domain. It gives students the opportunity to undertake a substantial research project which draws the prior knowledge and skills acquired from past experience and from taught modules of the MRes programme. It enables students to practise writing a scientific report, allows students to develop problem-solving skills, and enables students to manage research activities and critically assess the outcomes from the project. 

Aims:

The aim of the module is to enable the student to conduct research and apply the knowledge into practice through an independent project. The student should show a detailed understanding of a particular subject field. This will involve a survey of recent developments in the field, a critical analysis of these developments and a prognosis of future developments. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module the student will be able to: 

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  Develop an understanding of the research topic subject matter 

  
  


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  Develop and acquire new skills in conducting research 

  
  


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  Plan and manage a systematic approach to a research project 

  
  

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  Carry out a literature review 

  
  


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  Critically approach a research problem 

  
  


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  Develop a solution to a given research problem 

  
  


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  Evaluate the solution and provide a critical appraisal 

  
  


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  Derive logical conclusions 

  
  

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  Produce a dissertation 

  
  


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  Present the work in form of oral presentation 

  
  

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

Guidance on dissertation is provided in the Autumn Term to clarify the requirements for the dissertation. Lectures and workshop sessions on research methods and skills are provided during the Autumn and Spring Terms. 

The dissertation project normally commences with an outline proposal submitted by the students at the end of the Autumn Term based on which a supervisor is assigned. The topic is normally proposed by the student and developed further in consultation with the appointed supervisor, which should result in a research proposal. 

The research work must be conducted in an ethical and professional manner.  

The text of the dissertation would not normally exceed 18,000 words but it may be supported by ancillary material. 

Students may carry out their dissertation projects in organisations as part of placement or internship of up to six months in duration. The placement needs to be arranged by students and requires an approval by the Programme Director who ensures that the placement enables the students to satisfy the academic requirements of Dissertation. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The dissertation project is normally conducted by an individual student guided by a supervisor. The student is expected to have regular meetings with the supervisor and contact with other members of staff, where appropriate, with expertise in the chosen research field. There is an opportunity to give an oral presentation at an interim stage to seek for feedback from staff and peers. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:
None

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Assessment will consist of Dissertation (18,000 words) (80%) due in the first week of September, and Interim Report (20 pages of A4) (10%) due in the final week of May.  Presentation (10 minute oral presentation followed by 10 minute Q&A) (10%) to take place in the final week of June. The presentation assesses the student’s presentation skills. 

Formative assessment methods:

Students receive feedback from their project supervisors during supervision meetings based on their work that includes the outline proposal and research proposal, as well as their progress. They will also receive comments and feedback from the audience at the interim (oral) presentation reporting on progress of research. 

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:

Students will be required to obtain a mark of 50% overall through weighted average of the three components. 

Reassessment arrangements:

By resubmission of Dissertation in accordance with University policy. 

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2019