MECH9006 - Research Methodology

Module Details

Module Code: MECH9006
Title: Research Methodology
Long Title: Research Methodology
NFQ Level: Expert
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2022/23 ( September 2022 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 5213 - Interdisciplinary Engineering
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: In Research Methodology, the student takes some of the learnings and skills developed
from previous modules and applies them to a specific project topic in an appropriate
engineering area. Development of a project plan complete with appropriate methodology
selection and project management details is a critical aspect of the module. A detailed
literature review should be carried out to validate the selection of methodology and to identify
best practice. Further assessment of the selected methodologies will take place through
some initial engineering analysis.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Critically analyse appropriate literature and demonstrate understanding of the current state of the art in a project area.
LO2 Critique a number of methodologies, determine the most viable to address the research objectives.
LO3 Develop a detailed project plan to implement the proposed methodologies to address the research question. Include contingency planning in the approach.
LO4 Undertake problem/engineering analysis through the use of appropriate analytical, numerical and/or experimental methods as outlined in the project plan, and extracting significance from the results and observations.
LO5 Apply written and oral communication skills required of the professional practitioner.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
An intention or interest in engaging in technology research
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
An intention or interest in engaging in technology research
 
Indicative Content
Literature Review
Review of peer reviewed scientific literature: use of online databases, analysis of scientific papers, synthesis of key points. Intellectual property analysis, patent search and analysis. Identification and review of technical literature for familiarization with the current state of the art in the project area. Determination of best practice in applicable methodologies
Critical Thinking and Research Bias
Evaluation of peer research shall be used to develop critical thinking and the identification of areas of possible bias in research methodologies or findings. Bias shall be covered as a broad topic highlighting potential areas it can be embedded in research, including confirmation bias during literature review and the introduction of bias in experimental design.
Project Impact
Risk assessment of a project. Consideration for Health and Safety, environmental, sustainable goals, technical viability, commercial significance where applicable. Measures to ensure conformity with applicable norms, standards and legislation. Ethical appraisal of solution strategies, outcomes and impacts.
Project Development
Develop a detailed project management plan to solve an ill-defined engineering problem which is subject to numerous constraints. Devise a work schedule to satisfy the project aim or problem statement based on identified analytical, numerical and/or experimental methodologies. Contingency plans and alternative solutions should be considered.
Engineering Analysis
Justify the rationale for the chosen methodologies on the basis of preliminary engineering analysis, extracting significance from the initial findings and identifying any implications for the project plan.
Communication
Synthesis of findings into a concise, measurable work program with milestones and deliverables. Demonstrate knowledge of the field of research and of the objectives of the project through oral presentation. Write a professional report in a manner appropriate to the discipline.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Presentation % of Total Mark 25
Timing Week 6 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,5
Assessment Description
Oral presentation of project objectives, literature review findings and project plan
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 75
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Comprehensive professional thesis detailing the research topic, objectives, methodology and work plan required to complete the project.
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecturer-Supervised Learning (Contact) Contact Project Supervisor Meetings Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Independent Learning Every Week 6.00 6
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 1.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecturer-Supervised Learning (Contact) Contact Project Supervisor Meetings Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Self Directed Learning Every Week 6.00 6
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 1.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • David V. Thiel. (2014), Research Methods for Engineers, Cambridge University Press, p.291, [ISBN: 9781139542326].
  • Jiju Antony. (2014), Design of Experiments for Engineers and Scientists, 2nd. Elsevier, p.222, [ISBN: 9780080994178].
  • Gina Wisker. (2007), The Postgraduate Research Handbook: Succeed with your MA, MPhil, EdD and PhD, 2nd. Palgrave, p.444, [ISBN: 9780230521304].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_EMECE_9 Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 9 Mandatory