Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Independent research is fundamental to science and the research project represents a major component of the Honours program. The unit provides the opportunity for students to identify and solve scientific problems logically and creatively. Students are required to relate the project work to published work in the field of study.

Aims

Project aims to foster enhanced observational skills, relevant practical skills, lateral thinking and problem solving, literacy and communication skills, professional responsibility and ethical conduct, and conduct of scientific research.

Objectives

Students who complete this unit should:

1. Have an appreciation of the philosophy and practicalities of research,

2. Be aware of the journal format of published literature, and be able to write a thesis in accordance with this structure.

3. Be experienced in research methodology appropriate to their chosen field of study.

4. Be able to collect, critically analyse, and interpret data.

5. Be creative in approaching problem solving in a scientific manner.

6. Be capable of effective oral and written presentation of research methods, results, and interpretations.

Content

The project is an integrated research exercise wherein you will carry out independent research and document it by means of a written thesis in a style commensurate with the field and an oral presentation.

1. Research philosophy and practicalities.

2. Integration of your research with the scientific literature.

3. Scientific method and techniques specific to the research field.

4. Ethics and professional integrity.

5. Scientific research.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

NRB720 is a year-long unit. Students are required to undertake independent research in consultation with a supervisor. Students are expected to maintain regular contact with their supervisor.

Assessment

The unit is assessed by means of a marked written thesis and a public oral or poster presentation.A variety of milestones are imbedded to provide written feedback on thesis drafts, but is expected that students will maintain ongoing contact and discussion with their supervisors.

Assessment name: Project (research)
Description: Projects are assessed on the basis of a thesis/paper (52 cp) and an oral or poster presentation (fseminar) - (8 cp). The final result for the written report is based on the assessment of two examiners and the comments of the principal supervisor, plus invited input from all lecturing staff in the Biogeoscience Discipline. The thesis is assessed on the basis of::

1. Knowledge, understanding, evaluation, and application of relevant advanced theories, concepts, and techniques

2. Interpretation and synthesis

3. Communication
Relates to objectives: 1-6
Weight: 100%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: See Blackboard Site

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Students are expected to research the literature relevant to their individual research projects.

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 29-Oct-2012