IFN737 Industry Research Project (Phase 1)
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 code: | IFN737 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 or greater and completion of 84 credit points from IN20, IQ20, IN28, IN29, IN31, IV51, IV52, IV57, IV58, IV59, or IV60, and (INN700 or EGH404). INN700 or EGH404 can be enrolled in the same teaching period as IFN737. |
| Antirequisite(s): | IFN735 |
| Assumed Knowledge: | This is a capstone project unit designed to integrate all of the discipline specific knowledge and skills that you have developed throughout your course and major/specialisation. |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $1,192 |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,116 |
| International unit fee | $5,616 |
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2026, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | IFN737 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 or greater and completion of 84 credit points from IN20, IQ20, IN28, IN29, IN31, IV51, IV52, IV57, IV58, IV59, or IV60, and (INN700 or EGH404). INN700 or EGH404 can be enrolled in the same teaching period as IFN737. |
| Assumed Knowledge: | This is a capstone project unit designed to integrate all of the discipline specific knowledge and skills that you have developed throughout your course and major/specialisation. |
| Anti-requisite: | IFN735 |
| Coordinator: | Yanming Feng | y.feng@qut.edu.au |
Overview
The aim of IFN737 unit is to provide you with the opportunity to apply both your broad and specialised knowledge and skills gained from your degree to a real-world research project, in collaboration with an industry client and academic mentor who will form your research team. The unit IFN737 focuses on the initial stages of the research process, such as conducting a literature review, formulating research questions, and developing a strategic research plan. The completion of the entire research process and project takes place in the partner unit IFN738. By successfully completing this unit, you will possess a high level of research capability, allowing you to plan research and contribute to various professional settings. Additionally, the unit will help to prepare you for undertaking a PhD and research-oriented roles in public and private organisations, including positions as research-active staff and technical personnel supporting research activities.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Integrate advanced specialist disciplinary knowledge and skills to plan an industry research project.
- Apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to investigate a real-world industry research problem or opportunity.
- Apply well-developed research skills to synthesise industry and scholarly bodies of knowledge to create a literature review.
- Evaluate the ethical issues, risk and sustainability issues that are addressed in the research project.
- Scope and plan a real-world industry research project including the formulation of research questions and selection and justification of an appropriate methodology.
- Demonstrate well-developed independent research skills including autonomy, responsibility, adaptability and working effectively in an industry-connected research team.
- Communicate a research plan in a professional and scholarly way in written, visual and oral formats to diverse audiences.
Content
This unit has been designed to provide conceptual knowledge about the research process, together with associated skills in order to undertake research in professional settings.
Major topics may include:
- Engaging with an industry partner and academic supervisor
- Reviewing the research design process
- Identifying and justifying a targeted research problem
- Deriving one or more clearly answerable research questions
- Selecting appropriate methods to address the research problems and research questions
- How to undertake data collection and analysis.
- Research integrity and ethical issues in professional settings.
- Literature review, proposal and plan.
- Evaluating the value, quality and feasibility of research.
Learning Approaches
This unit makes use of a mentoring and independent project-based learning pedagogies where you will conduct your real-world industry research project under the guidance of your industry partner and academic mentor who will form part of your research team. This collaborative learning approach ensures that all participating students have a consistent and valuable industry research experience. As part of this unit, you will be expected to attend regular small group meetings with your academic mentor to check on your progress, discuss planned upcoming work and challenges.
At key times during the semester, interactive workshops will be held to further develop your research knowledge and skills necessary for executing, and effectively communicating research. The teaching and workshops will be delivered by a team with expertise covering diverse IT research disciplines, approaches, and methods. These workshops will also provide the opportunity for you to meet with your peers to discuss your research and to receive diverse, interdisciplinary and interprofessional perspectives.
Embedded support for learning has been integrated into this unit by providing continual opportunities for formative feedback in workshops, mentoring meetings and through assessment is an integral part of this learning experience. As a 12 CP unit you can expect to spend between 10 - 15 hours per week undertaking your industry project, conducting independent research, attending workshops and mentoring meetings.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
This unit provides you with multiple opportunities to receive feedback on your learning and assessment. This includes:
- Teaching team feedback: Advice and assistance will be provided by the teaching staff during workshop sessions. Formal feedback in the form of a rubric and personalised written feedback will be provided on all assessment tasks.
- Academic mentor: Regular small group meetings with your academic mentor.
- Industry partner: You will be encouraged to seek formative feedback on your progress from your industry partner. Your industry partner will provide summative feedback on your thesis and seminar at the conclusion of the research project.
- Peers: During scheduled workshops your peers will provide feedback on your project.
- Unit Coordinator: Consultations with the unit coordinator can be arranged at any time throughout the semester at a mutually convenient time.
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit has been designed to set you up for success in your Industry Research Project. It does this by requiring you to undertake the study of an online ethics module, which is required to meet the Australian Computer Society requirements, it then requires you to produce a progress report that will detail the planning and activities you have undertaken to progress the design of your industry research project. This will provide a valuable opportunity to receive feedback, which you can action in the third and final assessment for this unit, i.e. an oral presentation of your written plan that you will implement in IFN738.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Online Ethics Module Part 2
In this self-contained online Ethics module (Part 2) you will learn how to identify challenges when faced with ethical decision-making and how to apply the principles of ethical behaviour. You will then need to pass an online quiz to test your knowledge of the topics covered. You must pass the quiz in order to pass this unit, however, you may attempt the quiz an unlimited number of times until you pass.
This Ethics Module Part 2 has as a prerequisite Ethics Module Parts 1 which you will normally have completed as part of earlier unit IFN585. However, if you haven't already completed that Module, you will need to complete it first before completing Part 2.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
Threshold Assessment:
As an IT professional you will be legally bound by a code of ethics and professional conduct. Knowledge of these codes is therefore essential for all IT graduates. You must pass this Online Ethics Module and the other two Online Ethics Modules in order to pass this unit, i.e. regardless of how well you do in the other assessment items, you cannot pass this unit if you fail this assessment item. You may however attempt this assessment item an unlimited number of times until you pass.
Assessment: Progress Report
You are required to submit a brief report that details the progress you have made towards planning your research project to-date. You will need to review related quality publications, identify any potential challenges and research gaps, state your research problem and research questions, and outline your project timeline.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Plan Presentation and Report
You are required to prepare a detailed research plan report for your industry research project and deliver a presentation where you explain your research plan to an audience and respond to audience questions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.The report is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions. The presentations will be completed within Week 13
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
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.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
There are no out of the ordinary costs associated with the study of this unit. Students in the course of completing this project might opt to visit the industry partner's workplace for meeting. Costs associated with this optional activity, will be the responsibility of the student.
Resources
Learning materials and resources to support your learning in this unit will be provided in your Canvas unit site.
Risk Assessment Statement
Project work can sometimes involve site visits to commercial or industrial premises. When you visit such premises, you are responsible for acquainting yourself with any Health and Safety policies and procedures applicable to visitors (e.g. wearing of protective clothing such as hard hats, safety glasses, etc), and for observing those procedures. You are also responsible for notifying workplace supervisors of any health condition you have (e.g. asthma) which may place you at risk in some commercial or industrial situations.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN20 Master of Information Technology
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in at least one information technology discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex IT problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: ULO2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, IT methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex IT systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of IT research principles and methods and their application to IT focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in IT professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the IT field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN28 Master of Artificial Intelligence
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in Artificial Intelligence discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex Artificial Intelligence problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, Artificial Intelligence methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex Artificial Intelligence systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of Artificial Intelligence research principles and methods and their application to Artificial Intelligence focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in Artificial Intelligence professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the Artificial Intelligence field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN29 Master of Cyber Security
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in Cyber Security discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex Cyber Security problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, Cyber Security methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex Cyber Security systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of Cyber Security research principles and methods and their application to Cyber Security focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in Cyber Security professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the Cyber Security field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN31 Master of Data Science
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the principles, concepts, techniques, and approaches in data science.
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Skilfully use appropriate statistical, computational, and modelling techniques to derive insights from data to support decision-making.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically apply specialist problem-solving approaches to design, execute and produce data science solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Progress Report - Work effectively both independently and collaboratively in project teams to enable successful processes and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively and succinctly in oral, written and visual formats for diverse purposes and audiences.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report - Critically reflect on social and ethical data science issues, including how these relate to First Nations Australians.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IQ20 Master of Information Technology
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in at least one information technology discipline
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex IT problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, IT methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex IT systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of IT research principles and methods and their application to IT focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, ULO4, ULO5, ULO6, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in IT professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgements in professional contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, ULO6, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the IT field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | IFN737 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 or greater and completion of 84 credit points from IN20, IQ20, IN28, IN29, IN31, IV51, IV52, IV57, IV58, IV59, or IV60, and (INN700 or EGH404). INN700 or EGH404 can be enrolled in the same teaching period as IFN737. |
| Assumed Knowledge: | This is a capstone project unit designed to integrate all of the discipline specific knowledge and skills that you have developed throughout your course and major/specialisation. |
| Anti-requisite: | IFN735 |
| Coordinator: | Yanming Feng | y.feng@qut.edu.au |
Overview
The aim of IFN737 unit is to provide you with the opportunity to apply both your broad and specialised knowledge and skills gained from your degree to a real-world research project, in collaboration with an industry client and academic mentor who will form your research team. The unit IFN737 focuses on the initial stages of the research process, such as conducting a literature review, formulating research questions, and developing a strategic research plan. The completion of the entire research process and project takes place in the partner unit IFN738. By successfully completing this unit, you will possess a high level of research capability, allowing you to plan research and contribute to various professional settings. Additionally, the unit will help to prepare you for undertaking a PhD and research-oriented roles in public and private organisations, including positions as research-active staff and technical personnel supporting research activities.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Integrate advanced specialist disciplinary knowledge and skills to plan an industry research project.
- Apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to investigate a real-world industry research problem or opportunity.
- Apply well-developed research skills to synthesise industry and scholarly bodies of knowledge to create a literature review.
- Evaluate the ethical issues, risk and sustainability issues that are addressed in the research project.
- Scope and plan a real-world industry research project including the formulation of research questions and selection and justification of an appropriate methodology.
- Demonstrate well-developed independent research skills including autonomy, responsibility, adaptability and working effectively in an industry-connected research team.
- Communicate a research plan in a professional and scholarly way in written, visual and oral formats to diverse audiences.
Content
This unit has been designed to provide conceptual knowledge about the research process, together with associated skills in order to undertake research in professional settings.
Major topics may include:
- Engaging with an industry partner and academic supervisor
- Reviewing the research design process
- Identifying and justifying a targeted research problem
- Deriving one or more clearly answerable research questions
- Selecting appropriate methods to address the research problems and research questions
- How to undertake data collection and analysis.
- Research integrity and ethical issues in professional settings.
- Literature review, proposal and plan.
- Evaluating the value, quality and feasibility of research.
Learning Approaches
This unit makes use of a mentoring and independent project-based learning pedagogies where you will conduct your real-world industry research project under the guidance of your industry partner and academic mentor who will form part of your research team. This collaborative learning approach ensures that all participating students have a consistent and valuable industry research experience. As part of this unit, you will be expected to attend regular small group meetings with your academic mentor to check on your progress, discuss planned upcoming work and challenges.
At key times during the semester, interactive workshops will be held to further develop your research knowledge and skills necessary for executing, and effectively communicating research. The teaching and workshops will be delivered by a team with expertise covering diverse IT research disciplines, approaches, and methods. These workshops will also provide the opportunity for you to meet with your peers to discuss your research and to receive diverse, interdisciplinary and interprofessional perspectives.
Embedded support for learning has been integrated into this unit by providing continual opportunities for formative feedback in workshops, mentoring meetings and through assessment is an integral part of this learning experience. As a 12 CP unit you can expect to spend between 10 - 15 hours per week undertaking your industry project, conducting independent research, attending workshops and mentoring meetings.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
This unit provides you with multiple opportunities to receive feedback on your learning and assessment. This includes:
- Teaching team feedback: Advice and assistance will be provided by the teaching staff during workshop sessions. Formal feedback in the form of a rubric and personalised written feedback will be provided on all assessment tasks.
- Academic mentor: Regular small group meetings with your academic mentor.
- Industry partner: You will be encouraged to seek formative feedback on your progress from your industry partner. Your industry partner will provide summative feedback on your thesis and seminar at the conclusion of the research project.
- Peers: During scheduled workshops your peers will provide feedback on your project.
- Unit Coordinator: Consultations with the unit coordinator can be arranged at any time throughout the semester at a mutually convenient time.
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit has been designed to set you up for success in your Industry Research Project. It does this by requiring you to undertake the study of an online ethics module, which is required to meet the Australian Computer Society requirements, it then requires you to produce a progress report that will detail the planning and activities you have undertaken to progress the design of your industry research project. This will provide a valuable opportunity to receive feedback, which you can action in the third and final assessment for this unit, i.e. an oral presentation of your written plan that you will implement in IFN738.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Online Ethics Module Part 2
In this self-contained online Ethics module (Part 2) you will learn how to identify challenges when faced with ethical decision-making and how to apply the principles of ethical behaviour. You will then need to pass an online quiz to test your knowledge of the topics covered. You must pass the quiz in order to pass this unit, however, you may attempt the quiz an unlimited number of times until you pass.
This Ethics Module Part 2 has as a prerequisite Ethics Module Parts 1 which you will normally have completed as part of earlier unit IFN585. However, if you haven't already completed that Module, you will need to complete it first before completing Part 2.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
Threshold Assessment:
As an IT professional you will be legally bound by a code of ethics and professional conduct. Knowledge of these codes is therefore essential for all IT graduates. You must pass this Online Ethics Module and the other two Online Ethics Modules in order to pass this unit, i.e. regardless of how well you do in the other assessment items, you cannot pass this unit if you fail this assessment item. You may however attempt this assessment item an unlimited number of times until you pass.
Assessment: Progress Report
You are required to submit a brief report that details the progress you have made towards planning your research project to-date. You will need to review related quality publications, identify any potential challenges and research gaps, state your research problem and research questions, and outline your project timeline.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Plan Presentation and Report
You are required to prepare a detailed research plan report for your industry research project and deliver a presentation where you explain your research plan to an audience and respond to audience questions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.The report is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions. The presentations will be completed within Week 13
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
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.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
There are no out of the ordinary costs associated with the study of this unit. Students in the course of completing this project might opt to visit the industry partner's workplace for meeting. Costs associated with this optional activity, will be the responsibility of the student.
Resources
Learning materials and resources to support your learning in this unit will be provided in your Canvas unit site.
Risk Assessment Statement
Project work can sometimes involve site visits to commercial or industrial premises. When you visit such premises, you are responsible for acquainting yourself with any Health and Safety policies and procedures applicable to visitors (e.g. wearing of protective clothing such as hard hats, safety glasses, etc), and for observing those procedures. You are also responsible for notifying workplace supervisors of any health condition you have (e.g. asthma) which may place you at risk in some commercial or industrial situations.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN20 Master of Information Technology
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in at least one information technology discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex IT problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: ULO2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, IT methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex IT systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of IT research principles and methods and their application to IT focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in IT professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the IT field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN28 Master of Artificial Intelligence
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in Artificial Intelligence discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex Artificial Intelligence problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, Artificial Intelligence methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex Artificial Intelligence systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of Artificial Intelligence research principles and methods and their application to Artificial Intelligence focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in Artificial Intelligence professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the Artificial Intelligence field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN29 Master of Cyber Security
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in Cyber Security discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex Cyber Security problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, Cyber Security methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex Cyber Security systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of Cyber Security research principles and methods and their application to Cyber Security focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in Cyber Security professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the Cyber Security field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN31 Master of Data Science
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the principles, concepts, techniques, and approaches in data science.
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Skilfully use appropriate statistical, computational, and modelling techniques to derive insights from data to support decision-making.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically apply specialist problem-solving approaches to design, execute and produce data science solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Progress Report - Work effectively both independently and collaboratively in project teams to enable successful processes and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively and succinctly in oral, written and visual formats for diverse purposes and audiences.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report - Critically reflect on social and ethical data science issues, including how these relate to First Nations Australians.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IQ20 Master of Information Technology
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in at least one information technology discipline
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex IT problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, IT methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex IT systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of IT research principles and methods and their application to IT focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, ULO4, ULO5, ULO6, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in IT professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgements in professional contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, ULO6, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the IT field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Online
| Unit code: | IFN737 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 or greater and completion of 84 credit points from IN20, IQ20, IN28, IN29, IN31, IV51, IV52, IV57, IV58, IV59, or IV60, and (INN700 or EGH404). INN700 or EGH404 can be enrolled in the same teaching period as IFN737. |
| Assumed Knowledge: | This is a capstone project unit designed to integrate all of the discipline specific knowledge and skills that you have developed throughout your course and major/specialisation. |
| Anti-requisite: | IFN735 |
Overview
The aim of IFN737 unit is to provide you with the opportunity to apply both your broad and specialised knowledge and skills gained from your degree to a real-world research project, in collaboration with an industry client and academic mentor who will form your research team. The unit IFN737 focuses on the initial stages of the research process, such as conducting a literature review, formulating research questions, and developing a strategic research plan. The completion of the entire research process and project takes place in the partner unit IFN738. By successfully completing this unit, you will possess a high level of research capability, allowing you to plan research and contribute to various professional settings. Additionally, the unit will help to prepare you for undertaking a PhD and research-oriented roles in public and private organisations, including positions as research-active staff and technical personnel supporting research activities.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Integrate advanced specialist disciplinary knowledge and skills to plan an industry research project.
- Apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to investigate a real-world industry research problem or opportunity.
- Apply well-developed research skills to synthesise industry and scholarly bodies of knowledge to create a literature review.
- Evaluate the ethical issues, risk and sustainability issues that are addressed in the research project.
- Scope and plan a real-world industry research project including the formulation of research questions and selection and justification of an appropriate methodology.
- Demonstrate well-developed independent research skills including autonomy, responsibility, adaptability and working effectively in an industry-connected research team.
- Communicate a research plan in a professional and scholarly way in written, visual and oral formats to diverse audiences.
Content
This unit has been designed to provide conceptual knowledge about the research process, together with associated skills in order to undertake research in professional settings.
Major topics may include:
- Engaging with an industry partner and academic supervisor
- Reviewing the research design process
- Identifying and justifying a targeted research problem
- Deriving one or more clearly answerable research questions
- Selecting appropriate methods to address the research problems and research questions
- How to undertake data collection and analysis.
- Research integrity and ethical issues in professional settings.
- Literature review, proposal and plan.
- Evaluating the value, quality and feasibility of research.
Learning Approaches
This unit makes use of a mentoring and independent project-based learning pedagogies where you will conduct your real-world industry research project under the guidance of your industry partner and academic mentor who will form part of your research team. This collaborative learning approach ensures that all participating students have a consistent and valuable industry research experience. As part of this unit, you will be expected to attend regular small group meetings with your academic mentor to check on your progress, discuss planned upcoming work and challenges.
At key times during the semester, interactive workshops will be held to further develop your research knowledge and skills necessary for executing, and effectively communicating research. The teaching and workshops will be delivered by a team with expertise covering diverse IT research disciplines, approaches, and methods. These workshops will also provide the opportunity for you to meet with your peers to discuss your research and to receive diverse, interdisciplinary and interprofessional perspectives.
Embedded support for learning has been integrated into this unit by providing continual opportunities for formative feedback in workshops, mentoring meetings and through assessment is an integral part of this learning experience. As a 12 CP unit you can expect to spend between 10 - 15 hours per week undertaking your industry project, conducting independent research, attending workshops and mentoring meetings.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
This unit provides you with multiple opportunities to receive feedback on your learning and assessment. This includes:
- Teaching team feedback: Advice and assistance will be provided by the teaching staff during workshop sessions. Formal feedback in the form of a rubric and personalised written feedback will be provided on all assessment tasks.
- Academic mentor: Regular small group meetings with your academic mentor.
- Industry partner: You will be encouraged to seek formative feedback on your progress from your industry partner. Your industry partner will provide summative feedback on your thesis and seminar at the conclusion of the research project.
- Peers: During scheduled workshops your peers will provide feedback on your project.
- Unit Coordinator: Consultations with the unit coordinator can be arranged at any time throughout the semester at a mutually convenient time.
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit has been designed to set you up for success in your Industry Research Project. It does this by requiring you to undertake the study of an online ethics module, which is required to meet the Australian Computer Society requirements, it then requires you to produce a progress report that will detail the planning and activities you have undertaken to progress the design of your industry research project. This will provide a valuable opportunity to receive feedback, which you can action in the third and final assessment for this unit, i.e. an oral presentation of your written plan that you will implement in IFN738.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Online Ethics Module Part 2
In this self-contained online Ethics module (Part 2) you will learn how to identify challenges when faced with ethical decision-making and how to apply the principles of ethical behaviour. You will then need to pass an online quiz to test your knowledge of the topics covered. You must pass the quiz in order to pass this unit, however, you may attempt the quiz an unlimited number of times until you pass.
This Ethics Module Part 2 has as a prerequisite Ethics Module Parts 1 which you will normally have completed as part of earlier unit IFN585. However, if you haven't already completed that Module, you will need to complete it first before completing Part 2.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
Threshold Assessment:
As an IT professional you will be legally bound by a code of ethics and professional conduct. Knowledge of these codes is therefore essential for all IT graduates. You must pass this Online Ethics Module and the other two Online Ethics Modules in order to pass this unit, i.e. regardless of how well you do in the other assessment items, you cannot pass this unit if you fail this assessment item. You may however attempt this assessment item an unlimited number of times until you pass.
Assessment: Progress Report
You are required to submit a brief report that details the progress you have made towards planning your research project to-date. You will need to review related quality publications, identify any potential challenges and research gaps, state your research problem and research questions, and outline your project timeline.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Research Plan Presentation and Report
You are required to prepare a detailed research plan report for your industry research project and deliver a presentation where you explain your research plan to an audience and respond to audience questions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.The report is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions. The presentations will be completed within Week 13
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
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.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
There are no out of the ordinary costs associated with the study of this unit. Students in the course of completing this project might opt to visit the industry partner's workplace for meeting. Costs associated with this optional activity, will be the responsibility of the student.
Resources
Learning materials and resources to support your learning in this unit will be provided in your Canvas unit site.
Risk Assessment Statement
Project work can sometimes involve site visits to commercial or industrial premises. When you visit such premises, you are responsible for acquainting yourself with any Health and Safety policies and procedures applicable to visitors (e.g. wearing of protective clothing such as hard hats, safety glasses, etc), and for observing those procedures. You are also responsible for notifying workplace supervisors of any health condition you have (e.g. asthma) which may place you at risk in some commercial or industrial situations.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.IN20 Master of Information Technology
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in at least one information technology discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex IT problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: ULO2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, IT methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex IT systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of IT research principles and methods and their application to IT focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in IT professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the IT field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN28 Master of Artificial Intelligence
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in Artificial Intelligence discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex Artificial Intelligence problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, Artificial Intelligence methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex Artificial Intelligence systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of Artificial Intelligence research principles and methods and their application to Artificial Intelligence focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in Artificial Intelligence professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the Artificial Intelligence field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN29 Master of Cyber Security
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in Cyber Security discipline.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex Cyber Security problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, Cyber Security methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex Cyber Security systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of Cyber Security research principles and methods and their application to Cyber Security focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others.
Relates to: Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in Cyber Security professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgement in professional contexts.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the Cyber Security field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IN31 Master of Data Science
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the principles, concepts, techniques, and approaches in data science.
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Skilfully use appropriate statistical, computational, and modelling techniques to derive insights from data to support decision-making.
Relates to: Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically apply specialist problem-solving approaches to design, execute and produce data science solutions.
Relates to: ULO2, Progress Report - Work effectively both independently and collaboratively in project teams to enable successful processes and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively and succinctly in oral, written and visual formats for diverse purposes and audiences.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report - Critically reflect on social and ethical data science issues, including how these relate to First Nations Australians.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report
IQ20 Master of Information Technology
- Demonstrate advanced specialist IT knowledge in at least one information technology discipline
Relates to: ULO1, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Critically analyse complex IT problems and opportunities and use creativity and problem-solving skills to generate innovative and novel solutions that are convincingly justified.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Integrate advanced, industry-best practice, IT methods, tools and techniques to develop and implement complex IT systems, processes and/or software.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO5, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate knowledge of IT research principles and methods and their application to IT focused, real-world scholarly or professional projects.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, ULO4, ULO5, ULO6, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Employ leadership and initiative in both self-directed and collaborative contexts to create value for others
Relates to: ULO6, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Communicate effectively in IT professional and scholarly contexts to specialist and non-specialist audiences using written, visual and oral formats.
Relates to: ULO7, Progress Report, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Demonstrate business acumen and well-developed values, attitudes, behaviours and judgements in professional contexts.
Relates to: ULO4, ULO6, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report - Create positive change through critically reflecting upon and actioning responses to the social, cultural, ethical, sustainability, legal and accessibility issues in the IT field, including how they relate to First Nations Australians and diverse populations.
Relates to: ULO4, Online Ethics Module Part 2, Research Plan Presentation and Report