| Unit name | Research Methods (1) |
|---|---|
| Unit code | CENGM0006 |
| Credit points | 10 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Strachan |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None. |
| School/department | Department of Civil Engineering |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
This unit will introduce students to the basic principles of research methods and their application in research projects across the pure, applied and social sciences to enable research at Doctoral Level. The unit will cover the basic research paradigms and philosophical positions underlying different traditions in research, review approaches to problem exploration and definition, consider different research design strategies and outline approaches for conducting literature review. Techniques for gathering and rigorously analysing data of both quantitative and qualitative types and reporting of research results in peer reviewed publications will also be covered. Emphasis will be placed on the need to combine quantitative and qualitative approaches when addressing many real problems which bridge traditional research disciplines. This will enable students to successfully design, conduct and supervise various types of research and give them a broad understanding of the purpose and application of research methods. The unit also provides the basic prerequisite knowledge and skills to enable EngD Research Engineers to undertake the Research Methods 2 Unit, which covers research strategy and design in relation to complex systems. For research activities which involve a portfolio of individual projects and are likely to be aimed at creating major change and benefits in an organisational setting, an introduction to the principles of programme management will also be covered.
