Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives The objective of this subject is to provide students with an opportunity to integrate and apply concepts learned in previous studies by developing, in conjunction with a workplace supervisor, a significant and well-structured work-based project. Students will learn to apply traditional project methodology incorporating problem identification, analysis, development of solutions and an implementation plan. Students will document this in a formal written report.
Synopsis This subject introduces the research process, its methodology, tools and ethics. The topics of project selection, problem definition, hypothesising, library research, research design, data gathering and analysis are linked to a real-time productivity or quality improvement project in the workplace. Project management tools are utilised; and a detailed action plan to reach agreed objectives and which incorporates the formal research process steps, is developed and followed through. Production of a formal report containing the analysis, recommendations and implementation plan is the outcome.
Assessment Assignment one (potential research topics 1000 words): 10% + Assignment two (research plan 1000 words): 10% + Assignment three (project definition document 1000 words): 10% + Assignment four (project report 5000 words): 70%