_Lecture 1 Research Methods 17.12.2012 Stattfordshire

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  • Dr Francis Boateng AgyenimTel: 0302984459 or 0302200622Emails: [email protected]@gtuc.edu.gh Research Methods

  • Research Methodology: Module Content

    WeekContent Lecturer1Research and its methodsDr F Agyenim2Research proposals and funding sources Dr F Agyenim3Literature reviewDr F Agyenim4Identifying variables & hypothesisDr F Agyenim5Lab/Ecobuilding/Meeting Researchers from ABEDr F Agyenim5Tutorial Dr F AgyenimResearch proposal6Computer modelling/simulation (Selection of appropriate software)Dr F Agyenim7The experimental methodsDr F Agyenim8Analysis, conclusions and reporting Dr F Agyenim9Research Ethics/Research Innovation in IndustryDr F Agyenim1Presentation and AssessmentDr F Agyenim11Tutorial Dr F AgyenimLiterature review

  • The module aims to give preparation either for a further research/academic career working towards a PhD, or for involvement with industry-based R & D projects. Module Aim: Expected Outcomes: Knowledge and understanding of research methodologies in the area of engineering and science subjects, including literature searches, timetabling and project management, experiment methodology design and analysis of resultsIntellectual skills in information technology, online databases as well as statistical and analytical techniquesProfessional practical skills in compiling research proposalsTransferable (key) skills in the ability to employ the research methods to carry out research projects

  • RESEARCH METHODOLOGIESASSESSMENTDetails of project work will be given at end of Lecture and can also be found at the WebCT.

    MaximumMark (%)Date of submissionProject 1: Project Proposal 2000 words40%Project 2: Literature review paper, relevant to your dissertation topic4000 words60% Total100%

  • The module aims to give preparation for student course, dissertation further research/academic career working towards a PhD, or for involvement with industry-based R & D projects. Module Aim: Expected Outcomes: Knowledge and understanding of research methodologies including literature review and searches timetabling and project managementmethodology design and analysis of resultsIntellectual skills in information technology, online databases as well as statistical and analytical techniquesProfessional practical skills in compiling research proposalsTransferable (key) skills in the ability to employ the research methods to carry out research projects

  • Lecture 1What is/is not research?Why do research?Where does research occur?Who does research?What do researchers use?Types of researchResearch route Lecture 2: Research Proposal Funding SourcesStudy Skills

  • WHY RESEARCH METHODSTodays AgendaResearch BasicsThe Research ProcessProposal development

  • Because we say soSo you can understand works in your ProfessionSo you can conduct a meaningful research workSo you can evaluate research worksTo improve knowledge in your area1-2 Why Research Methods 1

  • 1-2 WHY DO RESEARCH 2To pursue knowledge for the sake of curiosity To meet specific needs of real-world- To design a low cost house;- To design an energy efficient cooling/heating system;- To develop a solar powered CHP system;To pursue a postgraduate (MPhil, PhD) qualification

  • What Research IsResearch is:the systematic process of collecting and analyzing information (data) in order to increase our understanding of the phenomenon about which we are concerned or interested.1

    Leedy P. D. and Ormrod J. E., Practical Research: Planning and Design, 7th Edition. 2001.

  • 1-1 WHAT IS RESEARCH?Research is defined in many ways by different authors,Including:Critical process for asking and attempting to answer questions about the world (Dane, 2011)The overall scheme of scientific activities in which scientists engage in order to produce new knowledge (Nachmias and Nachmias, 1981)A systematic quest for undiscovered knowledge - Discovering things - answering unanswered questions. A process of expanding the boundaries of our knowledgeCreating things - that does not currently exist.The discovery and the creation of knowledge lies at the heart of researchGood research is systematic in that it is planned, organised and has a specific goal. However, research is not always systematic and controlled)

  • What is not researchMere information gatheringTransportation of fact from one location to anotherCatchword to grab attentionMere rummaging for information (moving around, turning over, or looking through contents)

  • What Research Is NotResearch isnt information gathering:Gathering information from resources such as books or magazines isnt research.No contribution to new knowledge.Research isnt the transportation of facts:Merely transporting facts from one resource to another doesnt constitute research.No contribution to new knowledge although this might make existing knowledge more accessible.

  • Research CharacteristicsOriginates with a question or problem.Requires clear articulation of a goal.Follows a specific plan or procedure.Often divides main problem into subproblems.Guided by specific problem, question, or hypothesis.Accepts certain critical assumptions.Requires collection and interpretation of data.Cyclical (helical) in nature.

  • Originates with a question or problem (Guided by specific research problem or question)Requires a goal and specific plan for completing the researchMain problem is divided into sub-problems and objectives are assigned for each sub-problemCertain assumptions are acceptableRequires collection and interpretation of dataCyclical in natureCharacteristics of Research

  • A View of ResearchA quest for knowledge and understandingAn interesting, and perhaps useful experienceA course for qualificationA careerA style of lifeAn essential process for commercial successesA way to improve human quality of lifeAn ego boost for youA justification for fund for department and its continued existenceDifferent viewpoints of research:

  • Research ProjectsResearch begins with a problem.This problem need not be Earth-shaking.Identifying this problem can actually be the hardest part of the research.In general, good research projects should:Address an important question.Advance knowledge.

  • Research Project PitfallsThe following kinds of projects usually dont make for good research:Self-enlightenment.Comparing data sets.Correlating data sets.Problems with yes / no answers.

  • High-Quality Research(1 of 2)Good research requires:The scope and limitations of the work to be clearly defined.The process to be clearly explained so that it can be reproduced and verified by other researchers.A thoroughly planned design that is as objective as possible.

  • High-Quality Research(2 of 2)Good research requires:Highly ethical standards to be applied.All limitations be documented.Data be adequately analyzed and explained.All findings be presented unambiguously and all conclusions be justified by sufficient evidence.

  • Sources of Research ProblemsObservation.Literature reviews.Professional conferences.Experts.

  • Stating the Research ProblemOnce youve identified a research problem:State that problem clearly and completely.Determine the feasibility of the research.Identify subproblems:Completely researchable units.Small in number.Add up to the total problem.Must be clearly tied to the interpretation of the data.

  • HypothesesHypotheses are tentative, intelligent guesses as to the solution of the problem.There is often a 1-1 correspondence between a subproblem and a hypothesis.Hypotheses can direct later research activities since they can help determine the nature of the research and methods applied.

  • DelimitationsAll research has limitations and thus certain work that will not be performed.The work that will not be undertaken is described as the delimitations of the research.

  • DefinitionsDefine each technical term as it is used in relation to your research project.This helps remove significant ambiguity from the research itself by ensuring that reviewers, while they may not agree with your definitions, at least know what youre talking about.

  • AssumptionsAssumptions are those things that the researcher is taking for granted.For example: a given test instrument accurately and consistently measures the phenomenon in question.As a general rule youre better off documenting an assumption than ignoring it.Overlooked assumptions provide a prime source of debate about a research projects results.

  • Importance of the StudyMany research problems have a kind of theoretical feel about them. Such projects often need to be justified:What is the research projects practical value?Without this justification, it will prove difficult to convince others that the problem in question is worth study.

  • 1-3 WHERE DOES RESEARCH OCCUR?

  • 1-4 WHO DOES RESEARCH?

  • 1-5 Research Tools What do researchers use?Library and information resources internet databases and libraries Used to find out what is already known/done in the field; Computer software and mathematics:- Investigate the mechanism and inherent characteristics of the problem using theoretical approachExperiments and Measurement techniques: - Physical testing and experiments to test and validate new theories (hypotheses) using data collected

  • Statistics: - Evaluate your results using softwares such as Excel, SPSS, etc Language and facilities for reporting or communicating results and findings: Report these results to the scientific community through journals and conferences presentations Human mind: Most important tool on researchers workbench. Interpret data and arrive at logical conclusion .

  • 1-6 TYPES OF RESEARCH

    Goal MethodPure researchExperimental researchCreative researchDescriptive researchApplied researchEx post facto researchAction researchHistorical researchExpository research

  • 1-6-1. EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCHinvestigate problems of cause and effect identify the variables of interest determine if changes in one variable (cause) result in change in another (effect)Examples:Effect of prefabrication techniques on the cost of housesEffect of renewable energy technologies on the CO2 emission Effect of using air conditioning system on the health of occupants

  • 1-6-1. EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCHExercise 1: Give 2 examples that follow the route of experimental research (5 minutes):

  • 1-6-2 CREATIVE RESEARCH development of new things suitable for all fields, less structured and less pre-planned either practical or theoretical:- Practical creative research - design of physical things (artefacts) and the development of real-world processes, made by trial and error . - Theoretical creative research is about the discovery or creation of new models, theorems, algorithms, etc. Examples:Software for automatic control of robots operationMathematical model simulating the behaviours and movement of the universeA novel mathematical model to predict the transfer of heat across building fabric

  • 1-6-2 CREATIVE RESEARCHExercise 2:Give 2 examples of creative research (5 minutes):

  • 1-6-3 DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCHcase studystudying a specific situation to give rise to any general theories examine if existing general theories are borne out by a specific situationExamples:Energy performance of a central London office building whether the renewable technologies are necessary in refurbishment of the building in order to achieve the specified target given by new Part L building regulations.

  • 1-6-3 DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCHExercise 3:Give 2 examples of descriptive research (5 minutes):

  • 1-6-4 EX POST FACTO RESEARCHeffect to causelooks back at the effects and try to deduce the causesget rid of all other possible causes, and find one which truly affects the resultExample:The relationship between road development in an area and its current population.

    Investigating the growth in population in an area within the past 20 years to find out what caused the growth. Was it road development, culture reason, race issue and economic reasons.

  • 1-6-3 EX POST FACTO RESEARCHExercise 4:Give 2 examples of ex post facto research (5 minutes):

  • 1-6-5 ACTION RESEARCHProblems approaches to solve the problems effectiveness conclusionsParticularly used in applied researchAll the steps are objective and follow a certain scientific methodProcedures:Expert gathering of data about the specific problem (from the company) and the general topic (from literature study).Recommend changes and to be implemented by the company.After a suitable time-period, research is conducted to determine the effectiveness of the changes.

  • 1-6-6 HISTORICAL RESEARCHStudy of the past to examine the current OR to predict the future Cause-effect patternsDoes not directly study current cause or effects Data is gathered from primary sources (records made at the time of the past events) and secondary sources (records made after the events) Deals with the meaning of events (different from study of history) Examples:-Stock-market forecasting -Economic depression meaning of events but not just chronology of events

  • 1-6-7 EXPOSITORY RESEARCHFrom existing information to extract/deduce new insights or findingsReview-type research Research procedure: Reading to gather information/ points of viewComparing, contrasting, analysing and synthesising all points of viewFinding important insights.

  • The Research Process

  • 1-7 RESEARCH ROUTEIdentify a question/problem (ideas) Choose a good topic relating to the question/problemConvert the topic into a well-depicted research proposal (plan) Undertake review of literature to identify knowledge gapCarry out the research (modelling, experimentation etc)Analyse the research results and draw conclusionsWrite up the findings (Research report, thesis, paper) Present the research findings

  • 1-7-1 Identifying a PROBLEM A research problem can be found in several different ways, including:preliminary researchNeedsnew opportunitiesintellectual curiosity

    Identifying the research problem is the heart of the Research Process)

  • 1-7-1-1 PRELIMINARY RESEARCHStudies of previous research will often suggest useful research problems/knowledge gapAnswer to a particular problem often suggests a number of new problems/opportunities

    Examples:Research onto a refrigeration cycle for cooling gave rise to a new idea that the cycle can be used for heating

    Research on Rankine cycle for power generation led to the development of CHP (combined heat and power) system

  • 1-7-1-2 NEEDSApplied research often arises from specific needs of industries, institutions, countries or people.Examples: Find materials for quality low-cost housingA paint company want to produce longer-lasting paintsA moving firm want to minimise total distance travelledA technikon wants to devise an exam timetable which minimise clashesDevelopment of light composite materials for use as wind turbine bladesDevelop techniques for energy storage in buildings to reduce heating/cooling load

  • 1-7-1-3 NEW OPPORTUNITIESNew practical and theoretical breakthroughs often open the door to new research on how these breakthroughs can be used.Examples: manufacture of strong, lightweight alloys stimulated research in the field of aircraft designsilicon chip has stimulated research in the design and manufacture of more effectivecomputers availability of optical technology has helped create new possibilities of camera Isaac Newtons development of the theory of calculus enabled researchers to solve many problems that were previously unsolvable.

  • 1-7-1-4 INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITYWhy or how, asking the right question needs some insight, and experience. Examples: Leonardo da Vinci asked how birds fly and thus produced the first design for a flying-machine

    Ignaz Semmelweis in 1850s asked why more people die in some hospitals than others, and discovered that sterile conditions are necessary in operation;

  • 1-7-2 HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD TOPIC RELATING TO A QUESTION/PROBLEM Preliminary research, needs, new opportunities and intellectual curiosity are the four major ways in which researchers can gain ideas for research topics. A good topic should be answerable by the methods available and valuable in providing the answer. To choose a good topic for a question, a researcher must have a substantial knowledge of the field quested, and understand the current status and future development of the target area.Example:Isaac Newton is reported to have begun his investigations into gravity after an apple fell on his head.

  • 1-7-3 CONVERTING THE TOPIC INTO A RESEARCH PROPOSALConduct review on the latest development relating to the question/problem -whether the problem has been solved, or the question has been answered-what an impact it will be if the problem were solved through this researchRefine the question/problem to indicate its limits and application scopeEvaluate the approach to be used for solving the problem (or answering the question) Develop a research proposal to guide the research

  • 1-7-4 CARRYING OUT THE RESEARCHFollow the plan (proposal) Identify variables or hypothesisDevelop a mathematical model or use an existing computer model to find the solutions of the variables or hypothesisConstruct an experimental rig or use an existing rig to experiment with problem/question to be investigated, solution of variablesCollect data of results

  • 1-7-5 ANALYSE THE RESEARCH RESULTS (CONCLUSIONS)Compare the theoretical results with experimental dataValidate the computer (theoretical) model with experimental data, and subsequently refine the model developedVerify experimental data using the modelling results, and re- examineFind out the solutions of problem/question, relation between variables, and indicate accuracy of the hypothesisDraw out the conclusions which can answer the question as expected.

  • 1-7-6 WRITING UP THE FINDINGS (REPORT, THESIS OR PAPER)Entails pulling together the information you have already collected into one large document. A report (or thesis or journal/conference paper) should include the following:Title AbstractContentsQuestion and hypothesis (Background) Literature reviewResearch procedure (modelling and experiment) Results analysis Conclusion AcknowledgmentsReference List / BibliographyTables and Figures Appendices

  • 1-7-7 PRESENTING THE RESEARCH FINDINGSPrepare a presentation to communicate your work and results to others Eg in a conference (fair) Choose a vision catchy, attention-grabbing title Organize your information like a newspaper so that your audience can quickly follow Don't put text on top of photographs or images Check the rules for your fair, and follow it Take advantage of the space on the table in front of your board to help describe your project.

  • Lecture 2: Research Proposal Funding SourcesStudy Skills

  • CONTENT

  • Research proposal: lays out the research problem, describes how the research will be conducted andoutlines in precise detail the resources the researcher will use to achieve the desire results. Compares to an Architects plan to the construction of a buildingGood proposal demonstrates clear thinking without confusion (focused, organised, precise, logical, systematic)Straightforward (simple , logical train of thought)Clear, concise use of languageResearch Proposal Research begins with an idea/problem Present idea to be funded (developing a good proposal)

  • 2-1 ORGANISATION OF A RESEARCH PROPOSALEvery proposal is different and depend on sponsors requirement .A well depicted research application document will cover most of the following aspectsApplicant detailsTitle of proposed researchBackgroundAim and objectivesNovelty and TimelinessDescription of the Question/ProblemMethodologyBeneficiaries arisen from the researchDissemination and exploitation of the research resultsJustification of ResourcesQualification of ResearcherReferenceProject Timetable

  • Applicant DetailsDetails may include applicant achievements, current research, academic publications etc

    NAMEDr Francis Boateng AgyenimPOSITIONLecturer Sustainable Energy Technologies,Course Director MEng Architecture and Environmental DesignSCHOOLFaculty of Engineering/Architecture and Built EnvironmentCAMPUSUniversity Park, NottinghamEMAIL [email protected]

    Title of proposed researchExamples:The development of standardised methods for testing phase change energy storage systems for heating/cooling applications.Intelligent agents for home energy managementReduction of energy demand in buildings through optimal use of wireless behaviour information system

  • 2-1-1 BACKGROUND Background section should address the following points: Current status and trend of development of the target area Existing problems still in the target area of studyNovelty and significance of the research topic, particularly innovation, technical advancement and economic and social impacts which may result in the near and medium future.Facts and figures in background should always be supported with credible citations

  • BackgroundSolar energy sources are intermittent in nature, requiring storage to adjust the mismatch between their generation and consumption. This makes it imperative to expand knowledge into energy storage studies in engineering and Built Environment curricula of universities to address the potential shortfall in skills when designing renewable energy systems. ..

    Over the last three decades, much research has been conducted in the area of energy storage, concentrating on systems performance and efficiency measurement. For example, several studies have been conducted to study heat transfer enhancement techniques in thermal energy storage including finned tubes (Agyenim et al, 2010), bubble agitation (Velraj et al, 1997), insertion of a metal matrix into the PCM (Trelles and Dufly, 2003; Hoogendoorn and Bart, 1992), dispersion with high conductivity particles (Mettawee and Assassa, 2007), micro-encapsulation, (Griffiths and Eames) or shell and tube (multitubes) (Agyenim et al 2009, and Hendra et al, 2005). To date, however, the applicant is not aware of any educational facility and material developed and dedicated to the teaching of energy storage. This project proposal is intended to develop an interactive, fun and exciting educational material of different energy storage technologies to help inform students and the wider public on the need to incorporate energy storage in renewable energy system design. The educational material developed will primarily be used for teaching related activities.

    Title of proposed researchDevelopment of an educational material for solar thermal energy storage systems to improve learner awareness of low carbon technologies

  • 2-1-2 AIM AND OBJECTIVESThis section provides the overall aim of the project, and specific objectives the project will be expected to achieve.Specific objectives is a breakdown of the overall aim into sectionExamples

    Aims of the proposed research?The overall aim of the project is to develop an interactive energy storage material to help educate students and improve awareness on energy storage needs.

    Title of proposed researchDevelopment of an educational material for energy storage systems to improve learner awareness of low carbon technologies

  • 2-1-2 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

    ObjectivesThe aim of the proposed project will be achieved through the following objectives: Develop and build a lab-scale prototype energy storage system for demonstration,UG students to investigate heat transfer mechanism of the storage system and how they can be improvedEstablish through physical testing and computer modelling an interactive internet methodology to predict energy storage output for varying environmental and input conditions

  • 2-1-3 NOVELTY AND TIMELINESSThis section will highlight the Innovative aspects of the proposed research, and point out the significance and suitability of the research.NOVELTY AND TIMELINESSHeat transfer in energy storage systems creates an interesting multi-physics problem combining engineering design, thermal energy conduction and convection, mass transfer, and also systems dynamics and economics. This is an exciting area and a novel scientific work combining solar powered absorption cooling system with a full scale solar thermal energy storage has promising technical achievements; storing excess energy generated during peak incident solar radiation to drive an absorption cooling when solar energy is not available and thus over-come non-collection periods to avoid wastage, taking advantage to reduce cost and improve efficiency.

    Title of proposed researchDevelopment of solar air conditioning system in Uganda

  • 2-1-4 DESCRIPTION OF THE QUESTION/PROBLEMThis section describes the question/problem to be investigated in the research. It also addresses other aspects of the question/problem. The statement of problem and subprogrammes Hypothesis Delimitations Assumptions Importance of the study

  • 2-1-5 METHODOLOGY (WORK PROGRAMME)Methodology provides the methods to be employed in the proposed research. It also breaks the whole project down to a list of sub-tasks, each task guided by a roadmap on how to achieve the specified objective.Methodology entailsData needed Means of obtaining data (data collection strategies)Treatment of data (data analysis strategies)Theoretical frameworkDesign and assumptionsSelection and description of site/participantsMethods of achieving validity

  • 2-1-5 METHODOLOGY (WORK PROGRAMME)Construction of a model storage system for students to measure temperature input and outputs, voltage and current, power output etc. Development of an interactive internet sources to predict energy storage output for varying environmental and input conditionsA CD-Rom and printed material (manual) about the mobile storage explaining and demonstrating the working principle of the storage model including DIY procedure and leaflets for distribution to studentsPosters and online sources of the mobile system and Presentation of the project at the Faculty of Engineering seminarThe incorporation of the mobile system results at the department website, and into the lecture to provide students with the option of incorporating different energy storage design options in meeting building energy use.

    Title of proposed researchDevelopment of an educational material for energy storage systems to improve learner awareness of low carbon technologies

  • 2-1-5 METHODOLOGY (WORK PROGRAMME)Undertake detailed literature review to select the most common house type that consumes most energy per square meter of floor space. Develop an interactive internet sources to predict energy consumption by component under varying environmental and meteorological conditions normally encountered in practice.Develop a methodology and numerical model to predict human behaviour and to monitor behaviour remotelyDevelop an innovative means of integrating system to wall clock to demonstrate energy consumption by source in a given building

    Title of proposed researchReduction of energy demand in buildings through optimal use of wireless behaviour information system

  • 2-1-6. Potential beneficiaries of the researchIdentifying impact of the proposed research on economy, society, environment and national policies. This helps reviewers (referees) to assess whether the project is worthy of study or funding and what significant impact it will have after its successful completion..Identify the potential impact of the proposed workShow who is likely to benefit from the proposed research. If the benefits do not directly relate to wealth creation and/or to improving the quality of life, give details of other beneficiaries and explain their importance.Indicate any collaborations with potential beneficiaries and explain the role they are going to play in the project

  • Applicant and University of NottinghamThe proposed project will act as a platform for the training of researchers to match the demands of undergraduate and postgraduate future career paths in the area of building design with passive control of building temperature. The research-related knowledge and skills will provide further research-informing teaching capability to provide vital training, vocational and entrepreneurial skills. Research outputs will be disseminated through peer reviewed journals and conferences to help applicant actively engage with the public (the building industry in particular) at both the local and national levels about the research and its broader implications. This will potentially lead to collaboration, knowledge transfer partnerships and subsequent development of the applicants academic career by building on existing and developing new partnerships from academia, government and industry.

    Building-related Industry (Group A 3 benefits)

    UK and world at large (Group B 3 benefits)

    Title of proposed researchPassive use of solar energy to reduce building energy demand

  • Impact summaryImpact summary should normally have no or few technical words and no references are needed.Technologies needed to passively control building temperatures are becoming ever more important as society demands environmentally benign energy processes that minimise the use of fossil based fuels. The concept of using latent heat storage materials in buildings has been widely studied because latent heat have the advantage of high energy density and delivery of constant or near constant temperature at their melting temperature. In cold weather, the integration of PCMs into building fabric means that solar energy is absorbed and stored during the hot periods of the day and released in the cold period to help control (maintain) temperature at the thermal comfort zone if even the ambient temperatures are lower. In hot weather, the use of appropriate PCMs can similarly be used to shift peak cooling loads. Current research on PCMs application in buildings have primarily concentrated on material integration into wallboards, concrete and insulation materials to shift peak energy load demand and to improve use of waste, solar heat and the efficiency of operation for heating/cooling equipments..

    Title of proposed researchPassive use of solar energy to reduce building energy demand

  • 2-1-7 DISSEMINATION AND EXPLOITATION OF THE RESEARCH OUTPUTSIndicate how to publicise the research resultspublishing papers in scientific journals, presenting the results in conferences or seminars or website, poster presentation in an exhibition centre Indicate the opportunities for commercialisation and exploitation of your research findings. Routine exploitation include patenting, finding industrial partners, marketing strategy. Indicate the proposed dissemination and technology transfer routes and explain how the transfer of knowledge will take place to beneficiaries and the general public.

    Identify the mechanisms in place for identification, protection and subsequent exploitation of any exploitable results which may arise from the research (including details of any specific collaborative agreement, when relevant).

  • JournalDescription of proposed paperProposed submission dateEstimated publication dateSolar Energy(Impact factor 2.011)Publication on the comparison between energy consumption of a building integrated with latent heat material with conventional building with no heat storage.August, 2012February, 2013Conference:WREC 2012 or ISES conference 2012.Proposed guidelines on the innovative mechanism of integrating PCM into buildings as a step to reducing building energy consumption and reduce CO2 emissions.June, 2012August, 2012

    Title of proposed researchPassive use of solar energy to reduce building energy demand

  • 2-1-8 JUSTIFICATION OF RESOURCESIn this section (maximum 1 side of A4) you should describe the need for the resources you are requesting. Give peer reviewers enough information to understand why the resources are necessary for your proposed project. You should cover:All of the directly incurred elements of your proposal, including the effort and cost of all research assistants/fellows (even where they are named as a co-investigator).The effort, but not the cost, of the principal investigator and any co-investigators (excluding research assistants/fellows named as co-investigators).Items under the other directly allocated fund heading except for departmental technical and administrative services.

  • Example on project proposal on model energy storage design for educational purposes.

    ItemBudget ()Staff costs (Technician cost for putting together model storage system, Part-time student work)25,000.00Staff costs (PI (Applicant) 0.5day per week)FreeTravel and Subsistence500.00Consumables500.00Equipments for model storage(data loggers, sensors (temperature, pressure, wind and flow rate), controls and analysers)4,000.00CD ROM and Printed Material Cost500.00Miscellaneous 500.00Total31,000.00

  • 2-1-9 REFERENCEAll the information (data, and/or conclusions) used from other sources should be referred, which give origin of those information (date, publication details). Reference should use standard formats accepted in general publications.Fischer, J., Hallstrom, P. E., Sand, J., Desiccant-based pre-conditioning market analysis, Oak Ridge National Laboratory e.a., June 2000.

    Jain, S., Desiccant cooling systems, IIF-IIR Commissions, New Delhi, 1998.

    Stoitchkov, N. J. and Dimitrov, G. I., Effectiveness of crossflow plate heat exchanger for indirect evaporative cooling, International Journal of Refrigeration, 1998; 21(6): 463-471.Examples:

  • Journal citation examples Solar Energy Reference management software Using plug-ins to wordprocessing packages, appropriate template can be selected when preparing document and the list of references and citations to these will be formatted according to the style described.Endnote http://www.endnote.com/support/enstyles.aspReference to a journal publication: Van der Geer, J., Hanraads, J.A.J., Lupton, R.A., 2000. The art of writing a scientific article. J. Sci. Commun. 163, 51-59. Reference to a book: Strunk Jr., W., White, E.B., 1979. The Elements of Style, third ed. Macmillan, New York. Reference to a chapter in an edited book: Mettam, G.R., Adams, L.B., 1999. How to prepare an electronic version of your article, in: Jones, B.S., Smith , R.Z. (Eds.), Introduction to the Electronic Age. E-Publishing Inc., New York, pp. 281-304.Reference Manager: http://refman.com/support/rmstyles.asp

  • Citation in text Can be numbered in brackets [1] or (Surname, year) Examples; (Prescott, 2010), Khan and Kuo (2008), (Prescott et. al., 2007)

    Notes Ensure that every reference cited in the text is also present in the reference list (and vice versa). Unpublished results and personal communications are not recommended in reference list but may be cited in text reference as "in press" implies that the item has been accepted for publication Reference list should follow the standard reference style of a journal and should include Name(s) of author(s)Title of paperPublication date Edition of JournalVolume Pages

  • 2-1-10 PROJECT TIMETABLE GANTT CHARTA diagrammatic chart providing tasks involved, and time span for each task. A list of deliverables should be provided accompanied with clear milestones.

  • Study Skills

  • How to get good gradesAdopt a Strategic ApproachWork out exactly what you are trying to do and why (your goals)A certificate might get you a job, it will not help you keep it!Decide which of your goals have the highest priorityReview the resources available to youWork out a plan that makes best use of your resources to achieve your goalsDevelop an interest in your subject, you cannot learn effectively unless you get some enjoyment out of it

  • How to get good gradesAnswer the question!maintain focus on the specific question askedread the question very carefullyidentify the requirements (Blooms Taxonomy)listen to the tutors advice, ask questionsdiscuss the assignment with your fellow studentsclarify any areas of uncertainty with your tutormake sure everything you include is relevant

  • How to get good gradesPut in the effort neededread around the subject - researchcover the topic in sufficient breadth & depth adopt a rigorous, analytical & critical approach question the unquestionable think for yourself!ensure you demonstrate insight and originalityinclude relevant examples, quotations and references fully & clearly attributedDO NOT include whole blocks of material extracted from other authors even if referenced

  • How to get good gradesPresent your work wellplan and logically structure your work reference all quotations, indent & or use italicsidentify the source of all data, figures, graphs & material extracted from other authorsnumber pages & provide a contents list use paragraph numbers, headings, where appropriateread through carefully, check grammar & syntax, check your spelling - use the spell checking facility but do not rely on it

  • Spell Chequer? (malapropisms)Cautionary TailAwl thou the whirred processing soft wear as a spelling chequefacility, ewe should not putt two match faith inn it. Their are sumthings it can cheque and sum it Cannes knit. Four egg samplethis paragraph had know treble hat awl in getting threw it.Inn many weighs having the soft wear is a disadvantage, and itwood bee risk key to assume that big horse yore let tear, essayor reap ought got through the spell chequer it must be correct!Comb two thing cough it, it cud caws ewe to leaf a whirled inwitch yew mite have spotted if yew add red it properly in thefurs plaice, simply because it hasn't wrung a bell at yew.The name thing is too yews it as Anne aid, and knot to relayon it two much.

  • Common ErrorsMorale degree of enthusiasm, spirit of optimismMoral difference between good & evil, conductWhether implying doubt or choice Weather rain, wind, snow etc.Wether castrated male sheepTheir belonging to, associated withThere place or position, where it isPersonal private aspects of a person, to do with selfPersonnel people needed in an enterprise to carry out a taskContinual repeated at frequent intervals, intermittentContinuous without interruption, never ceasingMaterial substance of which something is madeMateriel equipment required to carry out a taskPrinciple rule, standard of reference, basic factsPrincipal first, main, important, key,Stationary not movingStationery writing materials, pens, paper, ink, etc.

  • Critical ThinkingWhat are the parts that make up this problem ? What do you think caused that?What is the context, situation, background?Explain & justify your reasoning.Why do you think that? Can you defend your position?How might we prove/disprove that?What criteria or tests should we use in this case? Consider all points of view, both for & against.Skilled & active interpretation & evaluation of observations & communications, information & argumentation. (Fisher & Scriven, 1997)

  • AnalysisSeeing patterns & relationships (systems)Organisation of parts (sub-systems)Identification of componentsInputs and OutputsRecognition of hidden meanings, purposewhat are the reasons, data, evidence?what is assumed, implicit & explicit

  • SynthesisUse old ideas to create new onesGeneralise from given factsRelate knowledge from several areasPredict, draw conclusions

  • EvaluationAssess the value of theories, models etc.Compare and discriminate between ideas Make choices based on reasoned argument are the reasons / assumptions acceptable? verify value of evidence / credibility of sourcedoes the reasoning support the conclusions?are there other relevant factors that support or weaken the case?Recognise subjectivity and bias

  • AssignmentsRequired Write a GOOD one page executive summary of your Proposed project( 500 words minimum, 550 max-12 pitch font- times new roman-1 page single space)

    Optional TaskA Research Proposal (1500 words maximum) related to a selected topic is to be developed. The topic and format of the document submitted is at the discretion of the candidate but it is expected that at least the following aspects will be covered:Background - a general overview of the field. The significance of the field and its application to society. The present state of knowledge.Aims and Objectives - what is to be achieved? Broad aims and particular objectives to be established with an explanation of their importance in the context of current work.Methodology proposed - how you intend to achieve the objectives and the overall aim? A description of the techniques to be employed in reaching the objectives. Reference to the work of other researchers will substantiate the choice of Methodology. A realistic assessment of risks associated with the methodology chosen should be included. Programme of work - a Timetable of work should be included with brief explanations of the activities indicated.

    *This presentation is only an overview of research. The only way to get better at research is to do it.*Maximise southern facades

    Avoid shading

    Orientate to within 30 degrees of south

    Living rooms on south unoccupied and working rooms to the north

    Prevent summer overheating by using shading

    Same for protection form the wind or using the wind to ventilate or drive turbines*While both of these are tools used during research, they are not sufficient for research.*These dont represent some kind of linear plan, but are rather common characteristics shared by almost all legitimate research regardless of the venue by which that research was conducted.*The concept of important questions is subjective and will depend on who you ask as well as the purpose of the research. For instance, PhD students have a different bar than Masters students owing to the requirement that their research be original and significant.*The first case is really an exercise in data gathering and doesnt contribute new knowledge. The same argument holds for the second case. The third case is a mathematical statement but doesnt address the reasons for the correlation (which might lead to new knowledge). A similar argument applies to the fourth case.*If other researchers cant confirm your results, you may be faced with having studied an anomaly. Similarly, without a solid plan, you might have inadvertently introduced errors into the experimental design which immediately calls your results into question.*There are very few perfect research designs where some flaws arent present. Thats normal. However, these flaws must be documented as well as their possible impact on the outcome. While this wont stop reviewers from criticizing the work, it makes it clear that you are aware of the problems and their impact upon your work.*Many of us have professional experience which can lead to possible research. Always be careful to differentiate between research and self-enlightenment.

    A lot of computer literature, particularly research journals such as IEEE or ACM, show good research problems and possible sources of future work. Such future work can provide a good starting point for research projects.

    The same groups also host professional conferences. DePaul has a student chapter of the ACM that might provide a good source of inspiration for research.

    Many of the faculty here at DePaul have all kinds of problems that theyre trying to solve.*When documenting the proposed research, you should be as precise as you can. Youll probably find yourself editing and revising many times to attain the necessary level of precision and clarity.*Documenting the delimitations is just as important as documenting the intended research. In essence, the problem and delimitations describe the scope of the project.

    Keep the delimitations in mind as you move forward. Current delimitations might provide avenues for valuable future work.*The accurate and consistent measurement of some phenomenon is called validity and reliability respectively.*Many times the ability of a researcher to justify the importance of their research topic is directly proportional to their ability to receive funding. This basically requires good salesmanship.*SEE SLIDE

    Typically 60% domestic energy used for space heating for space heating so passive solar will save a lot with little investment*Many times the ability of a researcher to justify the importance of their research topic is directly proportional to their ability to receive funding. This basically requires good salesmanship.*Maximise southern facades

    Avoid shading

    Orientate to within 30 degrees of south

    Living rooms on south unoccupied and working rooms to the north

    Prevent summer overheating by using shading

    Same for protection form the wind or using the wind to ventilate or drive turbines*SEE SLIDE

    Typically 60% domestic energy used for space heating for space heating so passive solar will save a lot with little investment