Civil 788A is an advanced 15-point course designed for postgraduate students in civil and environmental engineering. Operating at NZQF Level 9, this course provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
The primary objective of this course is to enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge and practical skills to a focused research endeavor. Students will identify a specific research problem or question within the realms of Civil and Environmental Engineering, formulate a research plan, execute the necessary investigations and analyses, and ultimately produce a comprehensive written report detailing their findings and conclusions.
Throughout the research project, students will work independently, exercising critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and self-direction. However, they will receive ongoing mentorship and supervision from an assigned academic advisor, who will provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the research process.
The research project may involve various approaches, including experimental laboratory work, computational modeling, analytical studies, or a combination of these methods. Students may also have the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners, depending on the nature and requirements of their chosen research topic.
The final assessment for Civil 788A is based solely on the student's written report, which should comprehensively document the research problem, methodology, findings, and conclusions. This report should demonstrate the student's ability to conduct rigorous research, analyze and interpret data, and effectively communicate their work in a professional and scholarly manner.