Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

The course only requirement is some basic knowledge of mathematical analysis (basic derivatives), linear algebra (basic concepts of vectors, matrices).

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims to help students develop an understanding of the transport research process. By covering essential knowledge and skills relevant to different stages of the research process, this module will enable students to conduct research independently, leading to the successful completion of their dissertation.

The specific aims of the module are:
-       to provide a basic understanding of research design.
-       to enable students to link research question to appropriate research method/approach
-       to provide an understanding of analysis methods, appropriate to research in a range of science and engineering disciplines
-       To enable students to develop a working knowledge of relevant tools

Outline Of Syllabus

Part A. Basics of research design:
-       formulating research aims and objectives
-       developing a conceptual framework
-       critically reviewing the literature
-       developing a research proposal
Part B. Basics of data processing and analysis methods
-       Basics of statistics
-       Continues data processing, analysis and visualization
-       Categorical data processing, analysis and visualization
-       Travel behaviour and Choice modelling, analysis and visualization

Part C. Introduction to relevant tools, including excel, SPSS, and Python

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended knowledge outcome is
indicated in each point. By the end of the module a student will be able to:

1.       have an understanding of the research process (M18)
2.       design an appropriate research project to address complex transport problem(s) (M2, M4)
3.       An understanding of data processing and analysis methods required to prepare for and deliver a significant piece of research successfully. (M1, M3)
4.       Interpret, present, and communicate research outcomes (M17)

Intended Skill Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended skills outcome is
indicated in each point. By the end of the module a student will be able to:
1.       critically review current knowledge in a specified area, and establish its status and limitations (M4)
2.       Identify, conceptualise and define a research question(s) and justify its relevance to practice and its significance as a potential contribution to existing knowledge. (M2)
3.       Select and justify a research methodology to meet specified research aims and objectives. (M5)
4.       the ability to analyse and interpret data using appropriate techniques supported by relevant software. (M3, M12)
5.       the ability to built basic mathematical and using them to interpret various transport problems. (M1, M3)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Teaching and learning of this module is done by a combination of lectures, labs and practical work, guest lectures, coursework and reading materials. This is in line with the learning outcomes. Lectures, guest lectures and coursework are intended to provide the theoretical background, labs allow students to learn the software and the codes to build the analytical l model. Practical work allows students to learn how to link the theory with the practice (how to use the theory in practice) and help developing problem solving skills.
Reading materials helps developing critical, independent and innovative thinking.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assessment is intended to assess if students acquired the intended skills in terms of understanding and master the theoretical background (and being able to apply the theory in practice.

General Notes

N/A