COMPUTER SYSTEMS RESEARCH
Fall/Spring 2005 - 2006
Research Definitions (notes from JLC workshop March 9, 2006)

What is research?

Why is research done?

Some Types of Research

Standards and Benchmarks for Research

Overview:

Note that these steps do not have to be done sequentially, one time through, from start to the finish of your research project. Trying to force too tight a structure on your development may at times impede your creativity. Often these steps are done iteratively, many times over, each iteration bringing you closer to the completion of your research and your overall goal.

Also see The Scientific Method, ISEF (Intel Science and Engineering Fair) and Why Complete a Science Fair Project? and science resources on the www

  1. Step 1: Standard I - Problem Identification. Students apply knowledge and processes to make informed decisions and identify and solve problems

  2. Step 2: Standard II - Information Acquisition. Students acquire information in several formats through a variety of resources.

  3. Step 3: Standard III - Scientific Investigation and Engineering Design. Students engage in scientific investigation and practice experimental and engineering design. As an example, "Extreme programming" is one project development method popular in software development, as well as UML (Unified Modeling Language)

  4. Step 4: Standard IV - Modeling. Understand, build, and use models in the process of research.

  5. Step 5: Standard V - Data collection. Engage in all aspects of data collection.

  6. Step 6: Standard VI - Data Analysis. Understand and use mathematics and technology to find meaning in scientific inquiry

  7. Step 7: Standard VII - Critical Thinking. Organize, analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information from a variety of sources.

  8. Step 8: Standard VIII - Communication. Communicate effectively and appropriately in several formats through a variety of resources.

  9. Step 9: Standard IX - Project Management. Develop and follow a research plan.

  10. Step 10: Standard X - Ethics. Conduct according to ethical standards and practices.