Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is part of a 12-pt research project. Parts 1 and 2 must be taken over two successive semesters and both parts must be completed to fulfil the requirements of the project. Students can commence the project in either semester 1 or semester 2. The academic objectives of the project are to improve students' understanding of the research process and to develop their capability to conduct independent research. Students learn about recent advances and gain in-depth technical competence in at least one specialist area of their discipline, apply the basic elements of research design to investigate a theory or hypothesis, and appreciate how research skills support lifelong learning. Students are required to communicate their findings to technical audiences using a range of media. They are also exposed to the University's research culture and opportunities to pursue further study. Students may choose a project from a list of advertised topics, negotiate a topic with an academic supervisor, or apply for an industry Co-operative Education for Enterprise Development (CEED) project.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 4 core unit in the Automation and Robotics Engineering; Biomedical Engineering; Chemical Engineering; Civil Engineering; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Environmental Engineering; Mining Engineering; Software Engineering major sequences
  • Level 4 option in the Mechanical Engineering major sequence
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) formulate a framework to answer a research question; (2) follow appropriate methodology to research an engineering problem or test a hypothesis or theory; (3) apply appropriate technical tools; (4) evaluate results to draw appropriate conclusions; (5) communicate clearly, effectively and appropriately using written, oral and visual means; (6) manage a project to meet outcomes and deadlines; (7) conduct themselves in a professional manner; and (8) evaluate relevant literature and other sources of information.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) project proposal; (2) project progress and review; (3) seminar and abstract; (4) final report; and (5) professional conduct. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the final report component.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Dianne Hesterman
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
and Successful completion of
144 Points including level 3 24 points
and GENG3000 Engineering Practice 3
Contact hours
Contact hours to be negotiated with supervisor
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.