ENGR9710A Masters Project (4.5/9 units)

This topic is taught and assessed as a continuum.

The masters project is intended to promote the development of research including communication and technical skills through an investigation of a particular area under the guidance of a supervisor. The project is not merely a large system-building exercise. Rather, the principle objective is for students to show initiative, acquire new knowledge, develop basic research skills, and develop insight in assimilating and critically evaluating ideas. The nature of the investigation will depend on the project itself but is likely to include: a literature search; the identification (in collaboration with the supervisor) of a suitable project; the planning and management of the project; the execution of the plan resulting indefensible results; the development and presentation of seminar(s); and, the production of a report embodying the methods and results of the project. Other aspects which may be included in some projects include: liaison with other researchers, industry practitioners and/or the community, either working on similar projects or with expertise required for the project, as may be appropriate; and, external presentation of results.

On completion of this topic, students will be able to:

• Develop an understanding of the open research issues in a given area of investigation
• Further develop analytical and critical thinking skills appropriate to research
• Further develop technical skills relevant to the given area of investigation
• Further develop high level writing and communication skills through the writing of reports including a final thesis and the delivery of presentations related to the project
• Develop project management skills appropriate to research-oriented investigation

1. Understand in-depth knowledge of a particular area of research and have developed skills relevant to research in that area
2. Be experienced in tasks associated with the proposing, planning and execution of a systematic investigation of a particular research question
3. Develop and effectively deliver appropriately structured presentations
4. Write both project and research reports in a professional manner
5. Analyse and evaluate established solutions to complex engineering problems