RSCH09031 2019 MEng Research Thesis, Mode 1

Develop a research methodology and project plan for a research project.

Plan and implement self directed learning to further knowledge and understanding of an unfamiliar and/or ill defined engineering problem.

Design and implement appropriate mathematical/analytical/experimental/modelling methods and techniques to advance knowledge in a specific engineering area.

Interpret, critique and synthesise data with state of the art in a specific engineering area.

Synthesise the research work in the form of presentations, poster presentations, abstracts, executive summaries, technical papers and a minor dissertation.

Produce a minor dissertation that details and evaluates the work undertaken and justifies the conclusions reached.

Identify a potential peer-review conference/journal paper for the research work and how this work may contribute to furthering knowledge in the specific engineering field.

This is an individual project where the learner will research a core topic related to the programme. Each project will have a strong central core: laboratory testing, numerical modeling or analysis of field data or a combination of these methods as deemed appropriate. A list of project titles and supervisors is made available at the end of the previous semester. Learners also have the option to propose their own projects.

Assessment of this module will be based on:

1. Continuous assessment of the project through journal logs and communication with the supervisor,
2. Preparation of a project plan,
3. Oral examination after submission of the project report,
4. Oral and poster presentation after submission of the project report
5. Submission of a final project report. 

Where a learner fails this module the Examiners will identify where the deficits in learning occurred. The learner will then have an opportunity to address these deficits and resubmit the project for a full re-examination, the next time this module is examined.

This module is undertaken by learners over 1 academic year.

The learners are required to demonstrate their ability in research, designing and executing experiments/ numerical analysis/ analytical analysis, concept development and reporting.

In undertaking this module learners will develop the skills required to manage and organise a major project. They will appraise and assess existing theories and present the findings and conclusions of their work both verbally and in a formal report. The report will include a literature review on the current state of the art in the project area.

Each project will usually have a strong central core: laboratory testing, numerical modelling or analysis of field data or a combination of these methods as deemed appropriate.