Physical Science Research Investigation - PSCI7000

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Module delivery information

This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.

Overview

Students will develop a number of skills related to the investigation and planning of research such as analytical skills, critical thinking and ability to understand and communicate scientific information in graphically. Students will learn how to search and retrieve information from a variety of locations (colloquia, websites, journals, proceedings etc). They will learn how to compile professionally-produced scientific documents such as colloquia reports, posters and applications for funding of future research activities/research job applications. The Group research investigation strengthens these skills, adding experience of working in a team.

Details

Contact hours

Total contact hours 35
Private study time 115
Total study hours 150

Availability

This is not available as a wild module.

Method of assessment

100% coursework. The coursework assesses student's familiarity with and ability to implement current research methods. Preparation of their coursework will require independent, original problem solving while planning carefully for the time available and to present their work in a professional manner.

Colloquium Report 1 (10 hours) 20%
Colloquium Report 2 (10 hours) 20%
Application outline (4 hours) 10%
Group Research Project (30 hours) 40%
Poster Presentation of Project (10 hours) 10%

Indicative reading

http://www.epsrc.ac.uk/
http://www.scitech.ac.uk

On writing proposals:
https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/funding/howtoapply/preparing

FOR WRITING A FUNDING PROPOSAL
http://www.learnerassociates.net/proposal/
http://www.learnerassociates.net/proposal/

See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)

Learning outcomes

The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate an ability to identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems, and to make approximations necessary to obtain solutions.
Demonstrate an ability to execute and analyse critically the results of an experiment or investigation and draw valid conclusions. To evaluate the level of uncertainty in these results and compare them with expected outcomes, theoretical predictions or with published data; thereby to evaluate the significance of their results in this context.
Demonstrate competent use of appropriate C&IT packages/systems for the analysis of data and the retrieval of appropriate information.
Demonstrate an ability to present and interpret information graphically.
Demonstrate an ability to communicate scientific information, in particular to produce clear and accurate scientific reports.
Demonstrate an ability to make use of appropriate texts, research-based materials or other learning resources as part of managing their own learning.
MPhys/MSci/MSc students:- Demonstrate an ability to communicate complex scientific ideas, the conclusion of an experiment, investigation or project concisely, accurately and informatively.
MPhys/MSci/MSc students:- Demonstrate an ability to make use of research articles and other primary sources.

The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate investigative skills in the context of independent investigation including the use of textbooks and other available literature, databases, and the interaction with colleagues to extract important information.
Demonstrate communication skills in the area of dealing with surprising ideas and difficult concepts, including listening carefully, reading demanding texts and presenting complex information in a clear and concise manner. C&IT skills are an important element to this.
Demonstrate analytical skills – associated with the need to pay attention to detail and to develop an ability to manipulate precise and intricate ideas, to construct logical arguments and to use technical language correctly.
Demonstrate personal skills – the ability to work independently and as part of a group, to use initiative, to organise oneself to meet deadlines and to interact constructively with other people.
Demonstrate self-direction and originality in applying and adapting problem-solving skills to unfamiliar, complex and open-ended situations.
Demonstrate the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.
Establish advanced research skills needed at a postgraduate level or graduate level in other sectors.
Demonstrate the capacity to undertake advanced scientific investigations, advanced problem solving and data analysis in a research environment.

Notes

  1. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  2. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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