Program Overview

ASC407 Research Skills Development

In this subject, students will undertake a critical review of the literature, identifying any existing gap(s) in current scientific knowledge. Using this information, students will then develop a research plan/proposal to address this gap in knowledge. The context of the literature reviewed may be as broad or as focused as is required to meet the student's career plans. The proposal may include aspects of animal production, equine management, conservation biology and wildlife management, and the science underpinning these vocations. The role of Research Ethics Committees is highlighted.

Availability

• Session 1 (30)
  • On Campus: Wagga Wagga Campus
  • Online: Wagga Wagga Campus
• Session 2 (60)
  • On Campus: Wagga Wagga Campus
  • Online: Wagga Wagga Campus

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject is for students enrolled in an approved postgraduate course and final year Bachelor of Equine Science students.

Assumed Knowledge

• Scientific writing
• STA210 or VSC114 or other university statistics / biometry subject.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to critically evaluate scientific publications in terms of strength of evidence, including study design, bias and rigour;
• be able to critically analyse publications succinctly in written format;
• be able to write a balanced review of the literature on a specific topic;
• be able to justify the need for a specific research project based on existing scientific literature;
• be able to develop a research proposal based on identified gaps in existing knowledge; and
• be able to develop a research plan/proposal.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• Critical analysis of scientific literature
• Writing a balanced review of the literature in a specific area
• Identifying a research project.
• Developing a research plan.
• The role(s) of Research Ethics Committees