Course content

The Advanced Project Work topic is to be chosen in consultation with supervisor.

A list of topics will be introduced to the students at the beginning of the semester.

Students will work with a selected supervisor in the process of defining scientific and research-based problem, formulating a research case, identifying research questions, conducting a literature search, and selecting appropriate scientific methods. If needed, they will also establish contact with project stakeholders for the implementation of the project.

Additionally, students will learn and experience documentation of the project resutls to produce the final report. This research plan will normally serve as the foundation for their master's thesis in the subsequent semester.

Learning outcome

After completing the course, the students:

• Developed the knowledge to formulate a research problem and approach it scientifically for its implementation using right methodology
• Have gained thorough knowledge of professional and scientific theory and methodology in the chosen field and will be capable of conducting an Research and Development (R&D) project in the area.

Skills:

• The students have obtained practical experience in conducting such an R&D project and in documenting the results in a scientific manner.
• Work independently to establish a research project of appropriate size and timeline.

General competence:

• Reflect on different research methods and sources relevant for the implementation of the project.
• Present and document the research work both orally as a presentation to fellow audience and in written as a research report.
• The students have developed a positive attitude towards working in an academic and problem-focused manner.

Learning methods and activities

• Project work - Supervision, working on a selected topic by the supervision of a researcher in the field.
• This course requires carrying out an individual project.
• The course is carried out as a combination of presentations, meeting with supervisors, and self-study. The students will develop, present, and discuss research problems with the appropriate case, use of methods, and theory. In most cases, the advanced project work will serve as the background for the master thesis.
• Group &/ individual meetings will be organised to share information and follow the progress of the project

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

At least one elective course

IMT4110 Scientific Methodology and Communication or similar. The course is offered to second-year MACS and COSI students

It is recommended that students have a good understanding of all first year’s subjects in their master program.

Course materials

This is a project based course and material is different for each student based on the project they have chosen. This will be discussed at the beginning of the semester.

Several information meetings will be conducted based on the need from the students.

Credit reductions