The main aim of this module is to lay a strong foundation for research in a field of theoretical computer science and to enable students to meaningfully engage with primary research literature. This is done through reading primary research articles under the guidance of an instructor and through disseminating the content of these articles both in the form of a written survey as well as a research talk to peers.

(LO1) Be able to competently find, navigate, understand, and evaluate primary research literature in a subfield of theoretical computer science.

(LO2) Be able to summarize and effectively communicate cutting-edge research findings in a subfield of theoretical computer science at a technical depth suitable for research seminars.

(LO3) Be able to competently write academic texts using customary typesetting systems, respecting and understanding the conventions of the publication culture in theoretical computer science.

(S1) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S2) Critical thinking and problem solving - Problem identification

(S3) Critical thinking and problem solving - Evaluation

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills – oral

(S5) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Listening skills

(S6) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Academic writing (inc. referencing skills)

There is a short introductory tutorial session covering:
Introduction
Review of key (online) tools for literature work
Research venues and publication culture in TCS
Primer to academic writing using LaTeX
The main part of the module consists of independent work on research articles, supported by an academic of the department. When suitable, there will be additional small group tutorials discussing progress and sharing intermediate findings.
Towards the end of the term, there is a joint seminar with presentations.

Teaching Method 1 - Tutorial

Teaching Method 2 - Individual/small group instruction