MSc Dissertation (Informatics) (P00907)

? Credit Points : 60 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : INF-P-DISS

This is a major piece of full-time independent work which occupies the final months of the MSc course. It is intended to allow students to demonstrate their ability to organise and carry out a substantial investigation into a problem in Informatics, according to sound scientific and engineering principles. The project involves both the application of skills learnt in the past and the acquisition of new skills.

The types of activity involved in each project will vary but will include most of the following:

* Researching the literature and gathering background information.
* Analysing requirements, comparing alternatives and specifying a solution.
* Analysing and extending relevant theory in novel ways.
* Designing and implementing the solution.
* Experimenting with and evaluating the solution.
* Discussing existing results and presenting new research.
* Developing written and oral presentation skills.

The project is conducted individually by the student under the supervision of a member of teaching staff. Students are formed into groups for the purpose of a Review Meeting.

Entry Requirements

? This course is not available to visting students.

? Pre-requisites : For Informatics PG students only, or by special permission of the School. There is also a possibility of further project dependent pre-requisites.

? Prohibited combinations : This course is not available to VUG students.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Research in Informatics, (School of Informatics, Schedule O)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Block 5 and beyond

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
01/10/2008	14:00	14:50

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the project, students will be able to:
* Structure and summarise a body of knowledge relating to a substantial project topic in Informatics.
* Critically evaluate previous work in the area.
* Conduct a programme of work in further investigation of issues related to the topic.
* Discuss and solve conceptual problems which arise during the investigation.
* Justify design decisions made during the investigation.
* Critically evaluate the investigation.
* Present their work, with demonstration of working artifacts where appropriate.