How to Design a Scientific Project

 

How to Design a Scientific Project can be studied as a stand-alone course and a core module for the Diploma of Higher Education: Field and Conservation Ecology at Aberystwyth University at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Mica Gallagher

Learning Method: Online.

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 5

Module Code: XS20110

Fee: £140.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

This course is currently unavailable for booking

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Overview

This module will introduce learners to the requirements of project design, and the many thought processes that go in to designing an interesting, testable, and meaningful scientific study. We will have interactive online discussion boards where learners will post comments on the successes and shortcomings of set case studies, developing critical thinking skills essential to working in a scientific field. The case studies will be introduced at the start of the week, and learners will have one week to complete the set task and contribute to the discussion board before a discussion of the case study solution the following week.

Programme

During the module, learners will cover the following:

  1. An introduction to scientific writing.
  2. Scientific Projects.
  3. Methods in Scientific Research - What is the best way to achieve your goals for your scientific project?
  4. Research Ethics - how to consider the ethical implications your research project may have.
  5. Success in Scientific Projects - setting clear, achievable goals, considering sampling size and achievability, timeline and budget constraints.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate critical thinking skills when given a project to plan.
  2. Construct a novel research idea.
  3. Critically appraise a proposed research project.
  4. Understand the different forms of statistical analysis and choose appropriate tests for a data set (we will not be conducting statistical tests in the class, just learning about them to gain a foundational understanding)

Assessments

  1. Project Proposal - 80%
  2. Discussion Board Contributions - 20%

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

• Internet access
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.