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Topics in Computer Science (948G5)

15 credits, Level 7 (Masters)

Autumn teaching

This module will introduce you to key ideas in computer science, with particular reference to informatics research.

You'll discuss research methods including:

• literature search
• survey and prcis
• use of proofs
• simulation
• experiments
• user studies and discussion
• presentation of results with statistical measures and analysis of variables
• controls

Assessment will be via a literature review and research proposal which will discuss a relevant research question for the programme, a proposed approach for investigating it and the most suitable form for the answers to take - noting any comparison with prior work. The literature review and research proposal may form an input to your dissertation, but there is no obligation in this respect.

The module will start with generic research methods and course guidance; and a diagnostic programming exercise to assess ability (and refer students who may benefit from additional programming help) and familiarise you with ßÏßÏÊÓƵ's systems.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 24 hours of contact time and about 126 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.