BIMRPS-Research Project (SISS)

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 60 [30 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Alastair Culham
Email: a.culham@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module provides the student with the opportunity to carry out some original research into some aspect of ecology and conservation, including literature review and assessment of methodology. To formulate questions that can be answered within scientific methodology. To report and discuss results in a standard form suitable for scientific publication.

Aims:

To become experienced in the procedures to be followed when initiating and conducting a research project including background study, problem definition and planning an appropriate research project, literature review and assessment of methodology. To formulate questions and hypotheses that can be tested and answered through the scientific method. To report and discuss results in a standard form appropriate for scientific publication.

Assessable learning outcomes:

The statement of a clearly formulated aim and investigative questions and hypotheses. The accurate reporting of scientific methodology and results. The reasoned discussion of results in the context of the subject area. The writing of scientific English.

The statement of a clearly formulated aim. The accurate reporting of scientific methodology and results. The appropriate collection, organisation and analysis of data, reasoned discussion of results in the context of the subject area. The writing of clear scientific English.

Additional outcomes:

Organisation skills, time planning and time management for extended periods of work.Ìý In some circumstances an outcome will be appropriate working with external organisation on a project.

Outline content:

A topic will be chosen in consultation with the module convenor. Topics may be provided e.g. from a list or if appropriate, on a subject area initiated by the student or in conjunction with an external organisation. An appropriate supervisor (or supervisors) is appointed. In consultation with the supervisor, the student undertakes background reading, agrees the approach and methodology to be employed, and prepares a literature review combined with a formal research proposal and health and safety assessment. The project is then undertaken during the Summer. Some students on this module may conduct their projects at other institutions or with other organisations or otherwise away from ÌÇÐÄ̽»¨ by prior arrangement and agreement of the module convenor.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The students will learn of the problems associated with carrying out original research first-hand. Students will be expected to consider potential problems beforehand and to discuss design and analysis with academics both within the university and the organization with which they may be working. Students will have one-to-one advice available to them during the writing-up stage.