Project based research training
With the support of a supervisor, you will identify a scientific problem to work with for the duration of the course. Your main focus will be on learning a research method, and the project itself can take place in a laboratory, in field or in a greenhouse. Along with your practical work you will also do literature studies in order to learn about the theoretical background of the method used, and to be able to compare it with other research methods within the field. The course will provide you with an insight into the research process and the work of a research group.
Syllabus and other information
Syllabus
LB0138 Project based research training, 15.0 Credits
Projektbaserad forskningspraktikSubjects
Horticultural Science Agricultural ScienceEducation cycle
Master’s levelAdvanced study in the main field
Second cycle, has second-cycle course/s as entry requirementsMaster’s level (A1F)
Grading scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Language
EnglishPrior knowledge
The equivalent of 30 credits at advanced level in Agricultural Science or Horticultural Science, and English 6.Objectives
The student will gain insight into research by working with a project in close association with a research group. The student will be able to train, in practice, how to apply some of the methods used by the research group in order to solve a specific problem. The student will also study the theory behind the methods in order to understand the limitations and possibilities of them.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to
- be able to apply one, or more, methods used in the relevant research area
- understand the theoretical background of the used methods
- identify a research question, collect or use relevant data, and scientifically analyze and discuss data and methodology
- have insights in the research process and the work of a research group
- be able to relate the research to the UN Sustainability goals
Content
Subject-related content
The course is based on an individual project. Prior to the course, the student is asked to identify the research area or research methods he/she is interested of learning more about. The student then contacts the course leader and a representative of a research group who can supervise the project work. At the beginning of the course, the student and the supervisor identify an individual project and a time plan is written. The student is introduced to laboratory or field site routines, including the safety aspects. After a supervised introduction to the methods, the student works more independent with the project. Literature studies in relation to the subject and the chosen methods are included. The student presents the work carried out in a scientific report containing introduction, materials and methods, results, and a discussion that includes the possibilities and limitations of the used methods. The discussion shall also include a short segment explaining how the research project relates to the UN Sustainability goals. In addition, the student presents the results of the project in a seminar for the research group.
Teaching formats
To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used:
- Literature studies
- Project work
- Presentation of the project
The course focuses on the following generic competencies:
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Written and oral communication
- Lab and analysis ability
Obligatory moments:
Course introduction with course leader, safety routines for work in laboratories, greenhouses, Biotron or out in the field, risk analyzes
Collaboration with the surrounding community takes place through:
- Activities and research questions of societal benefit that can contribute to solving relevant societal challenges.
- Visibility of the results and communication to relevant partners in business and society
Grading form
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.Formats and requirements for examination
The examination consists of:
Active participation in the work of a research group.
An approved scientific report written in English.
An oral presentation of the results.
If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.
Other information
The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.
If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.
Additional information
The course will broaden the student’s knowledge about research work and associated methods and/or may serve as a pre-study to a Master’s project.Responsible department
Department of Biosystems and Technology