MTE-40039 - Experimental Research Methodology
Coordinator: Nick Wragg Room: N/A
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 7
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office:

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Undergraduate degree (or equivalent proof of training) in relevant discipline.


Barred Combinations

none

Description for 2024/25

The Experimental Research Methodology Module gives students the skill set that is required for their development in a scientific career; from learning how to take notes in research seminars allowing them to write a comprehensive literature review in that area, to making sure they are efficient with their time in written examinations by giving them the chance to mark practice questions and decide where the marks should be given. The module brings together elements of professional development that should not be overlooked. A range of seminars, workshops and taught classes are timetabled during which students will have the opportunity to learn first-hand a range of skills necessary for them to achieve their best in their Masters programme. Classes on statistics will further support students in other theoretical and practical aspects of their course.

Aims
The module aims to provide a strong background in appropriate level literature search, academic writing, statistical evaluation and manipulation of data. Through the research seminars students also gain first hand dissemination of innovative research in regenerative medicine and biomedical engineering, and new technology in the medical field.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/mte-40039/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate a practical understanding of statistical designs, use of power analysis and statistical procedures with which to analyse experimental data;: 2
demonstrate the ability to perform a thorough up-to-date literature search using all resources available;: 1
critically review research data and information and disseminate this through descriptive and discursive writing and oral presentation;: 1
explore current research in cell and tissue engineering/biomedical engineering fields;: 1
appraise modern techniques used in the chosen research field (tissue engineering/ biomedical engineering).: 1
make a judicious and informed selection of statistical approaches used and their relevance within the field;: 2

Study hours

Lectures:
Literature Searching 2
Scientific Writing:
Lab reports, essays, journal articles 3
Dissertation and exam questions 1
Presentation Skills 2
Statistics 10
Workshops 2
Research Seminars: 6-8 (depending on invited speaker attendance)
Non-contact private study:
Directed reading to support lectures 58
Compiling information; report and essay writing 50
Preparation of oral presentation 14
Total: 150


School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Portfolio weighted 70%
Portfolio
A portfolio derived from student work, based on case studies, conducted throughout the module. The aim of the portfolio is to catalogue student progression in experimental research methodology, including design, communication and analysis An important aspect of the portfolio will be a critical analysis of methodologies utilised in the medical engineering area. Portfolio should not normally be over 3000 words.

2: Report weighted 30%
Statistics report
1500 word maximum report on the use of research/experimental design and statistical procedures for handling scientific data from a given scenario.