Monash University

Leader(s): Dr Kevin Korb

Offered

Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2009 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2009 (Off-campus)
South Africa First semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to a variety of issues, concepts, methods and techniques associated with IT research. Skills developed and knowledge acquired from this unit will prepare students to conduct their own research, as well as to be knowledgeable consumers of others' research.

Objectives

After completing this unit, students should have knowledge and understanding of:

1. Basic research concepts, major philosophical foundations (theory, framework, paradigm, scientific method and methodologies in general)
2. Research methods and techniques relevant to IT research.
3. Key issues in IT research.
4. Methods of argument analysis.
5. How to design research.
6. How to evaluate research and peer review procedures.
7. The process of reviewing research literature on a specific topic.
8. Ethical research practices.

After completing this unit, students should have developed attitudes of:

1. Confidence in themselves as informed consumers of published research, able to critically evaluate the relative quality and merits of reported research findings.
2. Confidence in their ability to undertake independent research and to complete a thesis.
3. Awareness of the ethical issues that arise in the design and implementation of research.

After completing this unit, students should have the skills to:

1. Match research tools and methods with research needs.
2. Write effective research papers.
3. Evaluate research ideas and designs.
4. Collect and analyse relevant data.

After completing this unit, students should be able to:

1. Communicate research ideas effectively in oral and written form.
2. Assess research ideas and designs.

Assessment

Assignments: literature review, assignment relevant to topic, and class exercises.

Contact hours

4 hrs/week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in an FIT Honours degree, Masters degree or Research degree. Foundation knowledge in computer science, business information systems or information technology and systems fundamentals is assumed.

Prohibitions

BUS5000, CSE4650, CSE4910, GCO4010, IMS4036, IMS5036, ITW4001

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.infotech.monash.edu.au/units/fit4005/