Reference no: EM134016307
Assessment - Impact of Data Quality and Model Interpretability in Business Analytics
Advanced Research Topics in Information
Assignment - Research Paper and Self-Reflective Journal
Research Paper
Introduction
The Introduction of the research report contains a full introduction to the research you have undertaken. The Introduction normally contains a statement of the problem (including the initial research question, the Significance of the problem, some historical background. The purpose, or goal to be gained from a better understanding of the research question, statement of hypothesis, any assumptions, and limitations as well as any possible ethical considerations. Perhaps also a brief overview of the methodology.
Students exploring topics related to data mining and artificial intelligence may use relevant academic sources to strengthen the background and context of the research problem.
The format of the Introduction can be found in the example document (Report Introduction.doc). Use this document as a starting point to develop your Introduction (add and delete sections as appropriate).
Submit this chapter by the due date and time to the assignment drop-box.
Literature Review
Task description
In this task, you will write the Literature Review chapter (typically Chapter 2) of your research report. This demonstrates your knowledge of the field, identifies research gaps, and positions your research question within existing work. It builds on your Assignment 1 proposal and Introduction.
What you must include
Your Literature Review must:
Cite investigations and findings from previous researchers to provide the background needed for your study.
Show your preparation and understanding of the body of knowledge in your specific IT/IS research area.
Identify key themes, debates, gaps, and contradictions in the literature.
Critically analyse sources (don't just describe but evaluate their relevance, strengths, and limitations).
Use a range of appropriate, authoritative sources (for example, peer-reviewed journals, conferences; aim for 20+ recent sources).
Include a Concept Map: Create and embed one visual diagram (for example, mind map or concept map using tools like XMind, Lucidchart, or Draw.io) that summarises key themes, relationships between sources, and identified gaps. This aids synthesis and will be assessed for clarity and insight (this will not be counted in word limit).
Follow the suggested guidelines and structure in "Research Report_Literature Review Template". The unit lecturer will discuss literature review techniques in class, with examples provided. Note: This submission may be divided into sections for early progress feedback.
Students may also review concepts related to database management DBMS and data communication and networking when discussing IT/IS research environments and supporting technologies.
Length and format
Word count: 2,000 - 2,500 words (this word count excludes references, tables, figures, and concept map).
Use clear headings/subheadings for themes or chronology.
Embed the Concept Map as a high-quality image or figure with caption and reference.
Use IEEE referencing style (all sources must be cited properly).
Task description
This is the final submission for Assignment 2. Integrate your previous three chapters (Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology) into one cohesive research report document. Revise earlier sections based on instructor feedback to improve quality and potentially recover marks. Add a full Abstract to summarise the entire report.
Note: This is a mock research paper, you are not conducting the actual research or reporting findings/results.
What you must include
1. Full Research Paper
Full integration: Combine and refine Introduction (10 marks), Literature Review (20 marks), and Methodology (15 marks) into Chapters 1 - 3. Ensure smooth flow and consistent narrative.
Abstract: A standalone summary (extend your Assignment 1 proposal abstract) covering: research problem/question, hypotheses, proposed procedures/methodology, and anticipated contributions/insights (≤1 page / 300 words).
Title page, table of contents, list of figures/tables (if any), and complete IEEE reference list.
No new substantive content beyond refinements and the Abstract.
2. Self-Reflective Journal: Append as a separate section after references. Reflect critically on your research process:
What you learned about research design, literature searching, and methodology selection.
Challenges faced (for example, finding gaps, refining your question) and how you overcame them.
How this process changed your understanding of IT/IS research.
Key skills developed and their relevance to your future career/study.
Write in first person; approx. 500 to 600 words; no formal referencing needed (personal reflection).
Use the overall structure from class examples and template documents (for example, Research Report Template).
Students discussing research procedures may also refer to real research methodology concepts for additional understanding of research planning and methodological approaches.
Length and format
Word count:
Research Paper: 5,000 - 6,000 words total (excludes Abstract, references, tables, figures).
Self-Reflective Journal: approx. 500 to 600 words
IEEE referencing style.