Program Overview

Course Description

The SCIE2510 - Research Project course provides students in advanced programs with an opportunity to engage in scientific research and learn research methodologies early in their undergraduate degree. Students will undertake a research project in various settings, including laboratory, field, and desk-based investigations, under the direction of an academic supervisor. The course aims to expand students' theoretical knowledge and skills, integrating them with real-world skills and experience through a practical project.

Course Content

Topics covered in the course include:

• Workplace health and safety and the preparation of risk assessments
• Project design and implementation in collaboration with a supervisor
• Development of project-related methodology and practical procedures
• Application and development of research skills and critical thinking
• Communication of results through a poster presentation

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Formulate a research plan in a chosen field to address a research question
2. Work independently to gather or collate data using the scientific method
3. Collect, analyse, and organise scientific information
4. Develop conclusions regarding the research question based on analyses of the data

Availability

The course is available in:

• Midyear Session (F2F-CAL-MID)
• Semester 1 (F2F-CAL-SEM1)
• Semester 2 (F2F-CAL-SEM2) All sessions are delivered face-to-face at the Callaghan location.

Contact Hours

The course includes:

• Individual Supervision: Students work approximately 18 hours per week under their supervisor's guidance in the midyear session, and 9 hours per week in semester 1 and 2.
• Seminar: A 3-hour seminar is held in week 6 of the midyear session and week 12 of semester 1 and 2.

Assessments

The course assessments include:

• Progress Report (10%): A summary of the research question, project progress, and plans for on-time completion.
• Research Notebook (30%): A record of the work performed, providing evidence of effort and application towards the research project.
• Research Poster (30%): A presentation of the research question, project aims and approach, analysis of data collected, and conclusions.
• Presentation of Poster (30%): A discussion of the poster and response to questions, with a compulsory requirement to obtain 50% to pass the course.

Compulsory Placement and WHS Requirements

Students must complete the designated Induction activity.

Course Details

• Study level: Undergraduate
• Course level: 2000-level
• Units: 10
• College: College of Engineering Science and Environment
• School: School of Environmental and Life Sciences