COMP7700E Honours Thesis (4.5/22.5 units)

This topic is taught and assessed as a continuum.

The Honours Thesis is intended to promote the development of researching including communication and technical skills through an in-depth investigation of a particular area under the guidance of an academic supervisor. The principle objectives are for students to show initiative, acquire new knowledge, develop basic research skills, and develop insight in assimilating and critically evaluating ideas. Students will present an oral research proposal detailing their research area and methodology, they will communicate through a final presentation their overall project achievement and will submit a written thesis describing the research work.

This topic aims to provide research training for students in various disciplines of STEM. This is achieved through the completion of a research project and production of a research thesis describing the project. Specifically, the topic aims to:

• Allow students to carry out an independent research project in a relevant area
• Provide students with an understanding and opportunity to apply relevant scientific principles through conducting a research project
• Further develop analytical and critical thinking skills appropriate for research
• Further develop high level writing and communication skills through the writing of reports including a final thesis and the delivery of presentations related to the thesis
• Develop project management skills appropriate to research-oriented investigation

1. Apply cognitive skills to review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge to identify and provide solutions to complex problems with intellectual independence
2. Demonstrate cognitive skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in developing new understanding
3. Demonstrate a deep understanding of a field of research
4. Apply ethical principles to the execution of a research project including the planning, conducting, collection and storage of data, and reporting of findings
5. Demonstrate communication skills to present a clear and coherent exposition of knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences