Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title RESEARCH METHODS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
Code COMP516
Coordinator Dr DK Wojtczak
Computer Science
D.Wojtczak@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2017-18 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

    1. To provide a deep and systematic undersanding of the nature and conduct of CS research.
  • To enhance existing transferable key skills.

  • To develop high order transferable key skills.

  • To equip students with the ability to undertake independent research.

  • To remind students of the Legal, Social, Ethical and Profesional (LSEP) issues applicable to the computer industry.


  • Learning Outcomes

    Have an understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to extend, create and interpret knowledge in Computer Science.

    Have a conceptual understanding sufficient to: (i) evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in Computer Science, (ii) be able to participate effectively in the process of peer review, and (iii) propose possible alternative directions for further work.

    Be able to deal with complex issues at the forefront of the academic discipline of Computer Science in a manner, based on sound judgements, that is both systematic and creative; and be able to communicate conclusions clearly to both specialists and non-specialists.

    Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems within the domain of Computer Science, and be able to act autonomously in planning and implementing solutions in a professional manner.

    Make use of the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: (i) the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility, (ii) decision making in complex and unpredictable situations, (iii) scientific risk identification, assessment and control, and (iv) the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

    Understand and participate within the professional, legal, social and ethical framework within which they would be expected to operate as professionals within the IT industry.

    Have the skills set to be able to continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level, with respect to continuing professional development as a "self-directed life-long learner" across the discipline of Computer Science.

    Be able to define and plan a programme of independent research.


    Syllabus

    1. Introduction and overview of the module.
    2. The nature of CS research; what is research?
    3. Literature searches, information gathering
    4. Reading and understanding research papers.
    5.Technical writing, referencing, bibliographies.
    6. Presentation skills, written and oral.

    7. Choosing or proposing a project.

    8. Project planning, tools and techniques for planning.
    9. Project conduct, time management, risk management, team working.
    10. Commercial and economic considerations in IT research and IT industry.
    11. Review of legal, ethical, social and professional (LSEP) issues including data protection and standards.

    Teaching and Learning Strategies

    Lecture -

    Laboratory Work -


    Teaching Schedule

      Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
    Study Hours 24

        8

        32
    Timetable (if known)              
    Private Study 118
    TOTAL HOURS 150

    Assessment

    EXAM Duration Timing
    (Semester)
    % of
    final
    mark
    Resit/resubmission
    opportunity
    Penalty for late
    submission
    Notes
                 
    CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
    (Semester)
    % of
    final
    mark
    Resit/resubmission
    opportunity
    Penalty for late
    submission
    Notes
    Practical Assessment    Semester 1  15  No reassessment opportunity  Standard UoL penalty applies  Individual oral presentation There is no reassessment opportunity,  
    Coursework    Semester 1  10  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  150-250 word abstract on CS research topic along with keywords and bibliography 
    Coursework    Semester 1  15  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Class test on professional, legal, ethical and other IT issues 
    Coursework    Semester 1  60  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  MSc project proposal Notes (applying to all assessments) A 150-250 word long abstract on a computer science related research topic agreed with the examiner along with keywords and bibliography. An individual presentation on the same topic. This work is not marked anonymously. No reassessment opportunity as part of the task is speaking and maintaining eye-contact with larger audience. This is done during the lecture in front of all the other MSc (20+) students. It would be impossible to recreate such conditions during a resit. Another aspect is that every student is supposed to ask at least one question and provide feedback to all the other speaker in the same session, which again would not be possible during a resit. A class test on professional, legal, and ethical and other issues related to computer science or IT. An MSc project proposal on a topic agreed between the student and the examiner. It includes project planning and risk assessment components. This work is not marked anonymously.  

    Recommended Texts

    Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
    Explanation of Reading List: