Unit Code: CIN812

Unit Name: Research Methods

Description: Research means a systematic investigation into and study of subjects and sources in order to establish facts and also reach new conclusions. Research in Computer Science & Information Systems questions how professional practice is conducted and contributes to the development of better practices in the scientific world. The course provides students with coverage of how research is conducted within Computer Science & Information Systems, and how to critically assess published research. Topics covered include the nature of research, the scientific method, theory and research, quantitative and qualitative data, measurement and quantitative data analysis techniques, qualitative data analysis techniques, research approaches in organizations and interaction design: literature review and conceptual study, survey, experiment, case study, ethnography, cultural probes and design science.

Learning Target Outcomes: On successful completion of this course, students will be able to : 1. Synthesize the ideas of the main research methods in the Computer Science domain. 2. Analyze the main concepts underlying the selection of a research method for different types of research questions and at different stages of research. 3. Distinguish difference between quantitative and qualitative data analysis. 4. Formulate the information needs of businesses decision makers. 5. Distinguish the difference between professional literature review and conceptual study. 6. Write a research proposal.

Prerequisite: Students must have passed BSC CS/IS or BIS.

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 30

Offered In: Semester 2