This module will consist of independent research in pursuance of investigating the Data Science topic chosen for the research report using appropriate research methods. Students will be referred to recent publications and appropriate learning resources to complete the investigation. They will be expected to investigate and evaluate social, legal and ethical implications of the IT technology, problem or solution they research. Relevant commercial aspects will also be considered.

Research Report – A research report exploring a Data Science issue or problem. Students will identify a problem and research into this. Their approach to the investigation will be documented, with sources written up and contrasted. Allied to the discussion commercial and economic issues will be explored (Learning Outcomes 1, 3, and 4).

Presentation – A presentation will be completed that summarizes the created research report and the key issues in terms of student approach and findings (Learning Outcome 2).

1. DEMONSTRATE A SYSTEMATIC UNDERSTANDING OF A DATA SCIENCE ISSUE OR PROBLEM IN ORDER TO ANSWER A CONTEMPORARY RESEARCH QUESTION AND ADVANCE YOUR OWN KNOWLEDGE. THIS IS TO INCLUDE AN APPROPRIATE CRITICAL EVALUATION OF ANY SOCIAL, LEGAL OR ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS.

Analysis, Knowledge and Understanding, Learning, Problem Solving, Reflection

2. COMMUNICATE, AT AN APPROPRIATE LEVEL, AN AREA OF CONTEMPORARY INVESTIGATION USING APPROPRIATE REFERENCING SKILLS

Communication

3. SYNTHESISE A RANGE OF SOURCES WHICH INFORMS A CRITICAL DISCUSSION OF THE TOPIC BEING EXAMINED

Analysis, Reflection

4. DEMONSTRATE A CRITICAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE COMMERCIAL AND ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF THE RESEARCHED IT ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Analysis, Reflection

Theory will be delivered via lectures and supported by practical classes, seminars and discussion groups. In addition, you will be provided with a range of resources for independent study such as case studies, academic papers and industry stories. There will be a mixture of practical and theoretical formative exercises which will help you build your knowledge and confidence as well as preparing you for the summative assessment.

Software for referencing (eg Mendeley, Zotero, Refworks), mind mapping
Software appropriate to the issue/problem being investigated
WWW
Library
Material on Blackboard.

Text appropriate to the issue/problem being investigated, indicative reading as follows:

Blaxter L., Hughes, C., and Tight, M. (2010) How to Research, 4th edition, Open University Press, ISBN 9780335238675.

Crème, P., and Lea, M, (2008) Writing At University: A Guide For Students , 3rd edition, Open University Press, ISBN 9780335221165.

Punch, K. F., Developing Effective Research Proposals, 3rd edition, Sage Publications, London, ISBN 9781473916388.

Lindlof, T. R. and Taylor, B. C. (2018), Qualitative Communication Research Methods, SAGE Publications, ISBN-10:¿1452256829.

Davies., M and Hughes, N. (2014) Doing a Successful Research Project: Using Qualitative or Quantitative Methods, 2nd edition, Palgrave Macmillan, ISBN 9781137306500.

Sharp, J. A., Peters, J. and Howard, K. (2002) The Management of a Student Research Project, 3rd edition, Gower, ISBN 9780566084904.

Brick, J. et. al, (2018), Academic Success: A Student's Guide to Studying at University: 77 (Macmillan Study Skills), Red Globe Press; 1st edition

Reid, G. (2021), Effective Study and Learning: How to Help, Luminate

Fantinel, S. (2022), How Expert Guide to Study Skills: 101 Tips to Learn How to Study Effectively, Improve Your Grades, and Become a Better Student, Hot Methods

On this module you will be expected to undertake independent guided research in order to address a contemporary Data Science issue. This will extend your knowledge in a particular field to give you cutting-edge advantage in the workplace. You will determine the path of the investigation and topics to consider. You will research these and then present your finding.