Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the Environment
Research
Research
Welcome and induction of student when they first arrive by the RDC and supervisors. The student is allocated a computer, office space, photocopying, library and computer access. As well as the Division–wide information guides, a guide to the School of Mathematics and Statistics has been written and this gives local information such as who to go to for particular information within the School, who to see for software etc. Additionally, the various pathways for aid are emphasised. If for some reason, there is no associate supervisor already arranged, then this is done directly.
How the time between arrival and the submission of the research proposal is organized depends on many factors. If, for instance, the student is to be working on a project which is part of a CRC or some other research team project, then the next step is to integrate them into the team. They may be given specific tasks straight away, or they may be directed towards a literature review to delve more deeply into the area they intend to focus on. If, on the other hand, they are working solely with their supervisors, the logical step would be to begin work on aspects of their project that the supervisors have earmarked for them to begin with, as well as beginning their literature review.
The writing of the research proposal does not follow a strict timeline – instead the emphasis is on finding or fine-tuning the specific goals for the research project, and ensuring that everyone is happy with the result. Then the student will undertake the preparation of the proposal. Models of proposals from other students in the School are consulted so that the student has a better understanding of the type of document that should be produced in order to aid in the structuring of the research project.
It should be noted that during this first period of time, much is done to involve the new student in the School of Maths and Stats community. There are regular research forums in the School, wherein people, both staff and students, give a short presentation on where they are in their research. The new students, and in fact all students, are strongly advised to come along. Also, it is important to involve the new students in social activities that are connected with the School.
The research proposal is prepared by the student and is refined in conjunction with the Principal and Associate Supervisor.
Once the Research Proposal is approved by the Principal and Associate Supervisors, it would then be forwarded on to the School's Research Degree Coordinator for review. If the RDC approves it, then the proposal would be forwarded on to the Research Degree Chair. The RDC will call on other members of the School for aid in assessing the proposal when necessary. There is at least some discussion of the proposal between the RDC, supervisors and the Director of CIAM. If it is not approved, it would be sent back to the student for revision, under the Supervisors’ guidance.
