1   Brief description of aims and content

This module provides insight into a chosen sub-field of e-governance by means of a structured and comprehensive literature study analysing a large amount of contemporary literature either from library databases or e-Governance journals. The module also provides methods of literature surveys and how to conduct a literature study.

2   Learning Outcomes

A. Knowledge and Understanding

At the end of the programme students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of

1. Informatics research in terms of emerging themes, research strategies (approaches and methods), theoretical frameworks, and issues relevant to addressing problems in practice

B. Cognitive/ Intellectual Skills/ Application of Knowledge

At the end of the programme students should be able to:

1. Have the ability to analyze a specific research problem in the context of a relevant research theme in Informatics;

C. Communication/ICT/Numeracy/Analytic Techniques/Practical Skills

At the end of the programme students should be able to:

1. Have skills in how to develop research communications strategies and how to efficiently disseminate scientific research findings within the community and outside the research sphere for inter-disciplinary cooperation and increased visibility.

D. General transferable skills

At the end of the programme students should be able to:

1. Have skills in how to efficiently disseminate scientific research findings within the community and outside the research sphere for inter-disciplinary cooperation and increased visibility.

3  Indicative Content

1. Conducting a literature review;
2. Investigating emerging research themes;
3. Investigating research strategies (approaches and methods) followed
4. Investigating theoretical framework used;
5. Analyzing the problem domain addressed (e.g. explorative, develop, evaluation, human, technical etc);
6. Writing and presenting academic paper.

4   Learning and Teaching Strategy

Only 18 hours of lectures shall be provided with a significant assignment in built to pass.

This module will be carried forward with all other modules as assignment or mini project whatever is applicable depending on theoretical or practical nature of the modules. The basic strategy is to encourage students to work independently. 

5  Assessment Strategy

In-course assessments add up to 100% and covers:

• Contemporary research: examination consists of writing and presentation of a paper;
• Contemporary research: examination consists of seminar activities;

6  Assessment Criteria

For the assignment, criteria will be drawn up appropriate to the topic, based on the learning outcomes.