1. Choose Project and Find Supervisor
When: Before end of taught modules
You need to choose or devise your own project, and get agreement from your Supervisor that it’s suitable. You will be allocated a supervisor by the MSc Project Module Coordinator but it’s better if you find your own. If possible, do this before the end of your taught modules.
See Project Guide Section 1 and Section 4.2.
2. Elaborate Project Idea
When: As soon as topic chosen
You need to work out what requirements your system will meet and/or what your research work will involve doing. Work on this as soon as your taught modules are complete.
3. Identify Research Questions
When: As soon as topic chosen, revise and elaborate up to deadline
Your project needs to be scholarly work that addresses research questions. You need to come up with a set of questions you can use your project work to answer. See the document Formulating Research Questions for Development Projects for guidance on how to do this.
4. Write Terms of Reference
When: As soon as topic agreed, as quickly as possible
You need to produce a Terms of Reference document, including a time plan. You MUST complete an Ethical Review Form. Work on this as soon as you’re done with your taught modules. The aim of the ToR is to achieve a clear vision of a viable project, including research questions and product objectives. See Project Guide Section 5 on how to write a ToR and complete the Ethical Review Form.
5. Literature Survey
When: After topic agreed, until deadline
All projects need to be grounded in the context of what’s needed and why, and the technological state of the art. An element of research and fact finding is essential.
6. Research and Development
When: After first draft of ToR
Start doing substantial work on your project as soon as you have a first draft of the ToR.
7. Write Dissertation
When: Start assembling pieces early
Try to write pieces early, especially describing papers you’ve read so you don’t need to read them again, and detailing technical issues while they’re fresh in your mind. Remember that taking your research questions seriously and writing a good critical review is crucial. See Project Guide Section 7 for guidance on writing your dissertation, avoiding plagiarism, coming up with a sensible structure, and doing referencing properly.
8. Submit
When: Deadline Day (normally Friday 7 September 2018)
You need to submit an electronic copy of your dissertation to Turnitin on or before your deadline. Your supervisors may appreciate an electronic copy.
9. Viva
When: After deadline, as agreed with Supervisor and Second Reader
A viva voce examination comprising a presentation and/or demo and questions is mandatory (see Project Guide Section 8). It normally takes about 50 minutes. You arrange a convenient time with your Supervisor and Second Reader.
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