MChem Introduction to Research Methods (U01256)

? Credit Points : 40 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : CHE-4-MChemRM

The course aims to provide training in methods used when carrying out chemical research. A practical element of the course consists of 'research methods exercises' which introduce specific practical or computational techniques applied to short research projects. These exercises are carried out in small groups, and development of group-working skills is an important aim of this part of the course. The course contains an additional written component in which training is provided in searching, reading and assessing the primary chemical literature. Students are required to produce two review articles, which summarise the main theories, concepts and principles of the area of chemistry covered by each article. The second of these articles will be on the subject of the Research Project to be carried out in the final MChem year. The course forms part of the Honours curriculum for students on any of the MChem degree programmes in chemistry that do not also include 'with Industrial Experience' or 'with a Year in Europe'.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : Chemistry 3A (CHE-3-A) and Chemistry 3B (CHE-3-B) and Chemistry 3P Practical and Transferable Skills (CHE-3-Pract) at a weighted average at or above Grade C at the first attempt (including Chemistry 3A (CHE-3-A) and Chemistry 3B (CHE-3-B) at a weighted average at or above Grade D), and Mathematics qualifications of at least 20 credits to level Applicable Mathematics 1 and Mathematical Methods 1; or with the permission of Head of School.

? Prohibited combinations : BSc Chemistry Research Project (CHE-4-BScChProj).

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Chemistry, (School of Chemistry, Schedule L)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 4th year

? Delivery Period : Full Year (Blocks 1-4)

? Additional Class Information : Approximately 400 hours of student practical, and oral, poster, report and literature survey preparation effort, within times assigned.

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course students will be able to:
- search the chemical literature on a given topic, and summarise the results of the search in written form to a professional standard
- execute a defined project of research, working as a member of a team, practising in ways which show a clear awareness of his/her own and others' roles and responsibilities
- carry out research effectively under guidance
- identify and define the principal aims, methods and results of a research project
- critically analyse and interpret the results of a research project, drawing and defending a set of conclusions
- present, at a professional level, the results of a research project in common scientific formats (written paper, oral presentation or poster presentation)
- use computer software to enhance the communication of research or the results of a literature survey
- assess the safety of chemical research in the research laboratory not only in terms of personal safety but also with respect to the safety of others in the laboratory and in the wider environment