ENN541 Research Methods for Engineers


To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.


Unit Outline: Semester 2 2024, Gardens Point, Internal

Unit code:ENN541
Credit points:12
Equivalent:ENQ541, EGH404
Assumed Knowledge:

Basic engineering maths is assumed knowledge.

Anti-requisite:IFN600, INN700, INN701
Coordinators:Guilherme Froes Silva | g.froessilva@qut.edu.au
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of the teaching period.

Overview

Problem identification, research design and planning, literature search, data collection and communications through reports and presentations are essential attributes of engineers in all the disciplines. Practice based research methods applied to solve discipline specific real-world problems, while demonstrating culturally responsible engineering practice, are skills in demand from professional engineers in contemporary workplaces. It is also equally important to communicate methods and solutions clearly and effectively in writing and verbally. 

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate independence in research planning and selection and application of research methods.
  2. Select, analyse and evaluate literature related to an engineering research question.
  3. Demonstrate advanced communication skills through field specific analytic documentation and presentations.
  4. Demonstrate effective group and collaborative skills in a professional, ethically and culturally responsible engineering team environment.

Content

 

You will pursue a research project that covers the process of problem solving in the context of an engineering project including: Describing the problem; literature review and citations (library skills); writing a research proposal; experimental design; data collection and analysis using qualitative and quantitive methods; conclusions, recommendations and preparing reports; presentations; ethics and management of intellectual property. In particular, the qualitative section of the unit will highlight Indigenous perspectives. 

Learning Approaches

Teaching and learning approaches in this unit are based around a systematic process of evidence-based (research) investigation with interactive lecture/discussions including professional/industry guest lecturers at key points. Group projects support industry authentic interdisciplinary projects. Hands-on workshops using QUT library and databases, student seminars and debate, and self-directed learning including hands on use of statistical and other relevant industry software packages provide an interactive, connected learning environment, hands-on workshops using QUT library and databases, student seminars and debate, self-directed learning including hands on use of statistical and other relevant software packages. This unit will also introduce you to the ethical needs of the engineering profession including culturally responsible engineering research practice and communication, particularly related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives.

You will develop and share how you work and learn cooperatively in diverse contexts as professionals through guided interactions with peers in tutorials and project work. Peer review of team work will assist shared learning, full group participation and equitable distribution of final grades. As professionals, you will also learn to write an evidence-based (research) report and present your findings in the context of a simulated international conference. Interdisciplinary project work with clearly differentiated roles particularly between engineers and engineering managers will assist authenticity of experience for the diverse cohort.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

You will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:

1. Rubrics provided to show the expected standard for each criteria in an assessment item.
2. Comments returned to you via Canvas.
3. Lecture / consultation sessions may be available for group and individual feedback prior to assessment due dates and on completion of assessments. You are encouraged to view your team as a learning community and to share and discuss ideas in the research process and your understandings of culturally responsible professional engineering practice.
4. Generic comments provided via QUT Canvas and in class.

Assessment

Overview

All three assessments are formulated around a group project. Each group will choose a professional project of interest and write a project proposal with a number of relevant references. Individually, you will also critically evaluate a selected publication and submit a concept map review of 'evidence'. At the end of the semester each group will submit and present a project report. Each group member will peer review and rate their own as well as other members' contributions and this may impact individual grade for group work.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Critique (written)

Critical Evaluation of Literature
You will submit a report critically analysing a project related publication.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Weight: 20
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Early Semester
Related Unit learning outcomes: 2, 3

Assessment: Project (research)

Problem Identification
As a group, you will submit a proposal for the project with evidence showing effective information literacy skills. Individuals will also be assessed through scaffolded peer review.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Weight: 30
Individual/Group: Individual and group
Due (indicative): Mid-Semester
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 4

Assessment: Report

Project Report
As a group, you will submit a report clear showing, the problem, research method, literature, outcomes and recommendations.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Weight: 50
Individual/Group: Individual and group
Due (indicative): End of Semester
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 3, 4

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Resource Materials

Recommended text(s)

Paul D. Leedy and Jeanne Ellis Ormrod, Practical Research: Planning and Design, 7th edition, published by Prentice Hall, Inc.

Other

You are also required to use the following:

  • The unit website on QUT's Canvas
  • QUT Library Databases:
  • QUT Cite| Write: You can access QUT cite/write online (Free download from QUT library)

Risk Assessment Statement

All commencing Faculty of Engineering students are required to complete the Mandatory Safety Induction

There are no extraordinary risks associated with the classroom/lecture activities in this unit.

Course Learning Outcomes

This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.

BN87 Master of Engineering Management

  1. Apply advanced engineering management knowledge, concepts and practices in managing engineering systems and assets
    Relates to: ULO1, Critique (written), Project (research)
  2. Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering management problems to achieve research informed solutions
    Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Critique (written), Project (research)
  3. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non-specialist audiences.
    Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  4. Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering management decision making and professional accountability .
    Relates to: ULO4, Project (research), Report

EN50 Master of Engineering

  1. Apply advanced discipline knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering systems and processes.
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research)
  2. Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  3. Apply systematic approaches to plan, design, execute and manage an engineering project.
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non-specialist audiences.
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report

EN51 Master of Sustainable Infrastructure

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Sustainable Infrastructure
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate Sustainable Infrastructure problems using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading edge research to achieve innovative, critically informed solutions 
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Sustainable Infrastructure in a way that assures sustainable outcomes over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate Sustainable Infrastructure problems, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability and reflective practice when working in individual and collaborative modes
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN52 Master of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts and practices in Robotics and AI
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  2. Critically analyse, evaluate and apply appropriate methods to Robotics and AI problems to achieve research-informed solutions
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  3. Apply systematic approaches to plan, design, execute and manage projects in Robotics and AI
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly in oral and written form for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  5. Work independently and collaboratively demonstrating ethical and socially responsible practice
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN53 Master of Renewable Energy

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Renewable Energy
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate Renwable Energy problems using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading edge research to achieve innovative, critically informed solutions
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Renewable Energy in a way that assures sustainable outcomes over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate Renewable Energy problems, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability and reflective practice when working in individual and collaborative modes
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN54 Master of Advanced Manufacturing

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist theory-based discipline knowledge and concepts as they relate to contemporary practice in Advanced Manufacturing
    Relates to: Report
  2. Employ advanced specialist technical skills, analysis approaches, design, and data to the solution of problems in Advanced Manufacturing, critically evaluating solutions against practice-informed performance and whole-of-life requirements
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Develop and employ professional leadership skills and management frameworks to deliver projects, lead teams, and enact change within Advanced Manufacturing
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Implement professional communication and collaborative skills while engaging with stakeholders, exchanging ideas, and presenting complex information to specialist and non-specialist audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethical and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, and reflective practice
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Enact a holistic approach to sustainability in Advanced Manufacturing that embodies the principals of efficient, green, circular, and clean
    Relates to: Report
  7. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation and creativity
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report

EN55 Master of Professional Engineering

  1. Apply advanced and specialist knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering design, analysis management and sustainability.
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  2. Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research)
  3. Apply systematic approaches to plan, design, execute and manage an engineering project.
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  4. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non specialist audiences.
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  5. Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
    Relates to: Report

EN56 Master of Engineering Technology

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Engineering Technology
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate Engineering Technology problems using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading edge research to achieve innovative, critically informed solutions
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Engineering Technology in a way that assures sustainable outcomes over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate Engineering Technology problems, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability and reflective practice when working in individual and collaborative modes
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN71 Master of Sustainable Infrastructure with Project Management

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts, methods and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Sustainable Infrastructure and Project Management domains
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate problems in Sustainable Infrastructure and Project Management domains using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading-edge research to achieve evidence based, innovative, critically informed solutions and outcomes
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Sustainable Infrastructure and Project Management domains in a way that assures sustainable outcomes and strategic objectives over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate problems in Sustainable Infrastructure and Project Management domains, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, reflective practice, risk-informed judgements, and leadership
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN72 Master of Advanced Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts and practices in Advanced Robotics and AI and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  2. Critically analyse, evaluate and apply appropriate methods to problems to achieve research-informed solutions in Advanced Robotics and AI and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply systematic approaches to plan, design, execute and manage projects in Advanced Robotics and AI and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly in oral and written form for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Work independently and collaboratively demonstrating ethical and socially responsible practice
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN73 Master of Renewable Energy with Project Management

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts, methods and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Renewable Energy and Project Management domains
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate problems in Renewable Energy and Project Management domains using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading-edge research to achieve evidence based, innovative, critically informed solutions and outcomes
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Renewable Energy and Project Management domains in a way that assures sustainable outcomes and strategic objectives over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate problems in Renewable Energy and Project Management domains, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, reflective practice, risk-informed judgements, and leadership
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN74 Master of Advanced Manufacturing with Project Management

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist theory-based discipline knowledge, concepts, methods and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Advanced Manufacturing and Project Management domains
    Relates to: Report
  2. Employ advanced specialist technical skills, analysis approaches, design, and data to the solution of problems in Advanced Manufacturing and Project Management domains, critically evaluating solutions and practice-informed performance to deliver whole of life requirements and strategic objectives
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Develop and employ professional leadership skills and management frameworks to deliver projects, lead teams, and enact change in Advanced Manufacturing and Project Management domains
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Implement professional communication and collaborative skills while engaging with stakeholders, exchanging ideas, and presenting complex information to specialist and non-specialist audiences in Advanced Manufacturing and Project Management domains
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethical and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, and reflective practice, risk-informed judgements, and leadership
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Enact a holistic approach to sustainability in Advanced Manufacturing that embodies the principals of efficient, green, circular, and clean
    Relates to: Report
  7. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation and creativity
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report

EN75 Master of Sustainable Infrastructure with Data Analytics

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts, methods and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Sustainable Infrastructure and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate problems in Sustainable Infrastructure and Data Analytics domains using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading-edge research to achieve evidence based, innovative, critically informed solutions and outcomes
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Sustainable Infrastructure and Data Analytics domains in a way that assures sustainable outcomes and strategic objectives over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate problems in Sustainable Infrastructure and Data Analytics domains, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, reflective practice, risk-informed judgements, and leadership
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN76 Master of Renewable Energy with Data Analytics

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist discipline knowledge, concepts, methods and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Renewable Energy and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate problems in Renewable Energy and Data Analytics domains using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading-edge research to achieve evidence based, innovative, critically informed solutions and outcomes
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage projects in Renewable Energy and Data Analytics domains in a way that assures sustainable outcomes and strategic objectives over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate problems in Renewable Energy and Data Analytics domains, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, reflective practice, risk-informed judgements, and leadership
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation
    Relates to: Project (research), Report

EN77 Master of Advanced Manufacturing with Data Analytics

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced and specialist theory-based discipline knowledge, concepts, methods and practices as they relate to contemporary practice in Advanced Manufacturing and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Report
  2. Employ advanced specialist technical skills, analysis approaches, design, and data to the solution of problems in Advanced Manufacturing and Data Analytics domains, critically evaluating solutions and practice-informed performance to deliver whole of life requirements and strategic objectives
    Relates to: Critique (written), Report
  3. Develop and employ professional leadership skills and management frameworks to deliver projects, lead teams, and enact change in Advanced Manufacturing and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Implement professional communication and collaborative skills while engaging with stakeholders, exchanging ideas, and presenting complex information to specialist and non-specialist audiences in Advanced Manufacturing and Data Analytics domains
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethical and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability, and reflective practice, risk-informed judgements, and leadership
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  6. Enact a holistic approach to sustainability in Advanced Manufacturing that embodies the principals of efficient, green, circular, and clean
    Relates to: Report
  7. Demonstrate an ability to research and apply established theories and plan and execute a substantial research-based project, cultivating an attitude of engineering innovation and creativity
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report

EN79 Graduate Diploma in Engineering Studies

  1. Demonstrate and apply advanced discipline knowledge, concepts and practices as they relate to contemporary Engineering practice
    Relates to: Report
  2. Analyse and evaluate Engineering problems using technical approaches informed by contemporary practice and leading edge research to achieve innovative, critically informed solutions
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  3. Apply innovative, systematic approaches to plan, design, deliver and manage Engineering projects in a way that assures sustainable outcomes over their whole lifecycle
    Relates to: Project (research), Report
  4. Effectively communicate Engineering problems, related complex data and information, and solutions in contemporary professional formats for diverse purposes and audiences
    Relates to: Critique (written), Project (research), Report
  5. Demonstrate ethically and socially responsible practice, recognising the importance of personal accountability and reflective practice when working in individual and collaborative modes
    Relates to: Project (research), Report