This unit is offered as the first introduction to research for students in the Master of Information Technology Systems course. It is designed to help students develop research skills as preparation for PhD study. It provides an introduction to the nature of research, the main research methods used in IT research, approaches to collecting and analysing data, and the communication of research.

16/10/2013 - Administrative change: adding prohibitions to include all other IT research methods units.

6 September 2018. CE updated unit objectives to Learning Outcomes as required by AQF. Changing from bullet format to numbers.

21/09/2020 - Admin: Update to include new assessment and teaching approach fields as per Handbook requirements.

This unit is a compulsory unit for all students in the Master of Information Technology Systems course. It is specifically designed to meet the course outcome - research skills as preparation for PhD study through research methods training.

On successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Explain the major philosophies and principles of research
2. Apply the major research methods used in IT research
3. Select and justify an appropriate research methodology for a research project
4. Collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative research data
5. Communicate research findings, orally and in writing, to a variety of audiences review and critique IT research literature and research design
6. Plan, design and develop a research project

029999

This unit introduces students to IT research. Specifically, it introduces major research methods that are used by IT researchers including experiments, surveys, case studies, and design science. It also addresses the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data. Students will learn how to effectively communicate research. Skills developed and knowledge acquired from this unit will prepare students to conduct their own research, as well as to be knowledgeable consumers of others' research.

On-campus

Peer assisted learning

In-semester assessment (assignments and class tests): 100%

1. Assignment 1: Research Writing Tasks - 30% (10% for each task) - ULO: 1, 5, 6
2. Assignment 2: Critical Review of Published Research - 30% - ULO: 3, 4, 5
3. Assignment 3A: Overview of a Research Project (In-Class Oral Presentation) - 10% - ULO: 1, 3, 5
4. Assignment 3B: Overview of a Research Project (Report) - 30% - ULO: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Minimum total expected workload equals 12 hours per week comprising:

(a.) Contact hours for on-campus students:

(b.) Additional requirements (all students):

FIT

Enrolled in the Master of Information Technology Systems degree.