Module Tutor Photo
School of Physical and Geographical Sciences  
 
 
ESC-40029 Research Project  
Co-ordinator: Dr Sharon George    Room: WSF13A, Tel:33986  
Teaching Team: Prof David Hoole, Mr David  Emley, Mrs Stephanie  Everill, Mrs Emma  Harvey, Mrs Karen  Babb, Dr Sharon  George, Dr Joanna  Wright, Ms Clare  Sillitto  
Level: 4 Credits: 60 Study Hours: 600  
School Office:
 
 
 
Programme/Approved Electives for
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Barred Combinations
None
Prerequisites
None additional to the programme requirements but students must have obtained at least 120 credits from their previous modules in this course.

Description

The development of specialised research, practical and employment skills is a fundamental requirement for a career in research and consultancy within the environmental and green technology sectors. This module will allow you develop a range of transferable skills either based at Keele or whilst on placement at an industrial partner.
Aims
To increase the students&© scientific skills base by improving their ability to formulate a research hypothesis and adopt a strategy to seek an answer. Students will develop the necessary expertise in, and understanding of, appropriate experimental designs and techniques required to seek the answer to their research hypothesis and to apply those designs, techniques and strategies to the research undertaken.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate progress in the development of the intellectual and cognitive skills necessary for scientific research and in so doing develop a critical awareness of current problems and/or insights which are at, or informed by, the forefront of the subject. Will be achieved by assessments: 1 3
Carry out the necessary experiments, and any associated data analysis, required to address their research hypothesis. They will have a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the techniques and discipline and have acquired new skills at a high professional level. Will be achieved by assessments: 3
Understand and apply the scientific background behind experimental techniques relevant to their research project. They will show self $údirection and originality in tracking and solving problems within their research and experimental protocols. Will be achieved by assessments: 1 3
Demonstrate a practical understanding of how established laboratory techniques within their research area are used to create and interpret knowledge within science. Will be achieved by assessments: 3
Formulate a strategy for investigation of their research hypothesis, evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses. Will be achieved by assessments: 2
Act autonomously in the planning and implementing of both academic and technical tasks at a professional level. Will be achieved by assessments: 3
Study hours
Research Practical 450 hours
Report preparation 50 hours
Independent Study 100 hours
Description of Module Assessment
01: Literature Review weighted 10% (min pass mark of 50)
Critical review of relevant literature for the research area
02: Dissertation Plan weighted 10% (min pass mark of 50)
Outline Dissertation Plan
03: Research Report weighted 80% (min pass mark of 50)
Scientific Research Report based on laboratory or field based research project
A scientific report not more than 20,000 words will be produced from research undertaken which will consist of the background and context of the research undertaken, the hypothesis to be tested and aims of the study, extensive materials and methods, appropriate presentation and analysis of data, and a critical assessment of results obtained in relationship with current knowledge within the research subject area.
Version: (1.06B) Updated: 03/Mar/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.