Research 201: Course Outline
© Brian Brown, 1998-2000. All rights reserved.
Description | Content | Assessments | Grievances | Plagiarism

Brief Description
This module concerns us with the topic of research. It attempts to define what research is, why we do research, and the various methods that researchers use to investigate problems.

It is designed as an under-graduate introduction to research methodology. Students are assumed to be familiar with statistics (such as mean, standard deviation, percentiles, and other such terms). The module provides a framework for conceptualising research and is meant to underpin the research project for the third year.

Module Content
The module is taught over four weeks. It is split into three main sessions.

1. Introduction to research
2. Research methods and theories
3. Publishing research

All content is provided in booklet form, and students are expected to read the material in the booklet (preferably prior to attending the lecture). Each week there is a tutorial session, during which time questions can be asked and help on assignments will be provided.

Module Assessments
There are three assessments for this module.

1. Writing an Abstract
   Students will select an article from a magazine (preferably an article dealing with a research problem) and write an abstract for the article. Details on how to write an abstract will be handed out in the first tutorial session. You will submit both your abstract and a photocopy of the original article.
   
2. Theoretical Underpinning Research Exercise
   This is an individual research exercise. You will be assigned a specific research problem and you are to write an essay that explains how it can be explained using an applicable theory. This exercise is designed for you to apply the theories you learn during the module to practical situations. The essay should be 2000 words with suitable references in APA style.
   
3. Exam
   

Grievance Procedures
In the first instance, please discuss this with the lecturer. If you are unsatisfied, the next course of action is for you to take it to the course controller in charge of the course. Failing that, you can take your complaint to the Head of School. The last resort above that is the CIT Academic board. Procedures are outlined in the student handbook.

Plagiarism
Plagiarism is not accepted. Included in the definition of plagiarism are:

• deliberately copying the work of another student;
• copying directly from any published work without using quotation marks;
• failing to acknowledge sources used in submitted assignments with proper citation methods;
• re-submitting an assignment used in one course as an original piece of work for another course.

Work that shows evidence of plagiarism will be penalised in accordance with the seriousness of the case. This may involve reductions in grades for minor infractions, a failing grade for more serious cases, and in extreme circumstances the disciplinary procedures of the institute may be invoked.

Terms
Terms for this module consist of regular attendance and an assessment exercise related to identification of common communicational theories using a sequence of video clips. The assessment must be completed and handed in to the lecturer before sitting the test.