You will need access to these resources:
- Blackboard virtual learning environment;
- Access to Library Information Services eResources via Athens;
- Access to external library catalogues and websites;
- Academic search engine (e.g. Google Scholar);
- Skype or teleconferencing and video or podcast technology.

Satisfactory progress on a Postgraduate Award in Computing or Technology. For students on the Masters by Research (MRes) in Computing this is the fourth module in the programme of study. the prior modules being:
Applied Research Methods (Distance Learning).
Secondary Research (Distance Learning).
Advanced Research (Distance Learning)
It may also be taken as a module by research students on other research awards (e.g. PgCRM) by negotiation.
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Recommended texts:
Studying at a Distance: A Guide for Students (2nd Edn). Talbot, C.J. (2007) Open University Press. ISBN: 978-0335223695.

Developing Effective Research Proposals. Punch, K.F. (2006) Sage Publications. ISBN: 978-1412921268.

Research Proposals: A Practical Guide (Open Up Study Skills) Denscombe, M. (2012) Open University Press. ISBN: 978-0335244065.

These learning strategies will occupy your time:
- There will be a heavy emphasis on independent learning as a facilitator of research, using appropriate technologies. Classes will be virtual;
- The learning materials on the VLE will include indicative subject 'keynotes' (including live and recorded lectures), guided reading and examples of research resources;
- The role of the tutor will be as a facilitator and advisor. The student is expected to manage his or her own research. The 20 hours contact time will usually be in the form of teleconferenced or telephoned meetings between the tutor and student, although face-to-face meetings may also be used when appropriate;
- The VLE will provide interaction between the tutor and student(s) and between students within a group through interactive forums.
Students will be encouraged to use this media where appropriate to develop discursive skills.

100% Coursework, consisting of 2 combined items:
A RESEARCH PROPOSAL of 7 to 9 pages for a Masters dissertation in the relevant area of research, weighting 90% (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4).
A PRESENTATION of the Proposal of approximately 30 minutes followed by critical questions and answers, weighting 10% (Learning Outcomes 4 and 5).
You must write the research proposal in a formal style, showing a clear understanding of your proposed Masters dissertation. The standard should be that of a research proposal that could be submitted for a minor funded research project. The proposal will define the aim and objectives of and deliverables from the research, the methodological and ethical issues and should include an appropriate research design, literature survey and project plan. It is important to be concise and yet specific in producing the research proposal, which places great emphasis on research design and planning. The presentation is an opportunity to discuss the proposal with a panel and to prepare you for presenting your research formally.

This module follows the Advanced Research module (DL) on the MRes programme. The module refines and focuses the individual programme of study that was developed in the Advanced Research module, as originally defined by the Learning Contract that was produced in the Secondary Research module. An original and advanced research proposal will be produced in the University’s approved format describing and defining the proposed Masters dissertation. The proposal will be presented to a small panel of faculty staff active in the chosen topic at an advanced level. The assessment will normally be carried out by the supervisor and a second assessor.