COMP6010

Course Title: 
Research Methodologies in Computer Science
Credits: 
6
Semester offered: 
I
Associated Programme: 
M.Phil. CS
Core Course: 
yes
Course Aims: 

This course aims to provide the incoming MPhil student in Computer Science with the basic training necessary to make a smooth transition to the point where he/she will be able to confidently start pursuing his/her research in a safe environment.

Learning Outcomes: 

At the end of the course the student should:

  1. be able to identify and avoid potential hazards in the Computer laboratory and to deal effectively with such hazards should the occasion arise;
  2. be able to use the available tools in the library confidently and effectively in pursuing his/her research;
  3. be exposed to examples of well-written articles, reports and theses and to appreciate their style and construction;
  4. be able to carry out literature search in the prospective area of the M.Phil. project, possibly including a focus problem, to prepare a clearly written, concise and substantial document;
  5. to be able to present an oral summary of the preceding report in a seminar.
Syllabus: 
  1. Safety Precautions in the Computer Laboratory . One-day course run with the assistance of the University Safety Officer.
  2. Effective technical writing ( proposals, journal papers and theses)
  3. Use of Library (to be organized with the librarian, Science Library)
  4. Literature research in the prospective area of the M.Phil. project, possibly including a focus problem, resulting in a written document. This is to be done under the guidance of the supervisor.
  5. Oral presentation of literature research in a public seminar.
Course Assessment: 
  • Short-answer questions plus possibly a practical demonstration. (Grade: Pass or Fail).
  • Literature Review and Report     70%
  • Oral presentation         30%

Students will be required to pass both the written and oral portions.