Research Methods and Professional Practice

Learning Objectives

  • Acquire the ability to study and reflect on key principles and methods in research based on the scientific method and relevant to various disciplines.
  • Acquire the ability to examine various research strategies and designs as applicable to projects at hand.
  • Acquire the ability to develop research competencies, in particular those relating to the collection and analysis of data types to enable a critical design and evaluation of independent research.
  • Have the opportunity to take a reflective and independent approach to the learning process.
  • Appraise the professional, legal, social, cultural and ethical issues that affect computing professionals.
  • Appraise the principles of academic investigation, applying them to a research topic in the applicable computing field.
  • Evaluate critically existing literature, research design and methodology for the chosen topic, including data analysis processes.
  • Produce and evaluate critically a research proposal for the chosen topic.

Literature Review

Unit 7, Deep learning and machine learning in football predictions LINK

Research Proposal Presentation

Unit 10, Crime analysis LINK

Unit 1: Introduction to Research Methods

In this unit, I was introduced to the elements within the scientific method and explored the various aspects of ethical issues in research, as well as their relevance to professional practice. By the end of the unit, I was able to differentiate between inductive and deductive reasoning. I also gained an understanding of why ethics are important and how they relate to my area of research and professional practice.

Unit 2: Research Questions, Literature Review, and Proposal

In this unit, I learned how to formulate and revise research questions, examined all the parts that make up a research proposal, and how to present my ideas effectively. By the end of the unit, I could identify suitable research topics and transform them into well-crafted research questions and proposals.

Unit 3: Methodology and Research Methods

In this unit, I learned about the three research methods—quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods—and the data collection methods for each. I now understand which methods are suitable for my research area.

Unit 4: Case Studies, Focus Groups, and Observations

This unit introduced me to case studies, focus groups, and observation methods. By the end, I understood how to apply these methods to my investigation and what data each approach yields.

Unit 5: Interviews, Surveys, and Questionnaire Design

In this unit, I learned about interviews, surveys, and pre- and post-testing. I also explored methods for improving response quality and how to analyse data from different types of questions.

Unit 6: Quantitative Methods - Descriptive and Inferential Statistics

This week focused on understanding quantitative methods, descriptive statistics, and measures of location and spread. By the end, I could apply these techniques effectively.

Unit 7: Inferential Statistics and Hypothesis Testing

I gained a solid understanding of inferential statistics, probability, and hypothesis testing. By the end of the unit, I could apply these to data analysis and hypothesis testing.

Unit 8: Data Analysis and Visualisation

I learned how to analyse qualitative and quantitative data, and by the end of the unit, I was able to use various charts and visualisation techniques for presenting data effectively.

Unit 9: Validity and Generalisability in Research

In this unit, I explored validity, generalisability, and reliability and how they impact research design. I applied this understanding to analyse and present my research findings.

Unit 10: Research Writing

This unit focused on how to structure a dissertation effectively. By the end, I felt confident in my ability to organise and present my research.

Unit 11: Professional Development and e-Portfolio

In this unit, I reviewed my learning approach and completed the Professional Skills matrix, which helped clarify my future professional goals.

Unit 12: Project Management and Managing Risk

In this unit, I learned about project management, risk management, and project life cycles. I developed a risk management plan and understood how to manage project changes.