Critical Thinking in Research

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

170 hours

Admission into to one of

• Bachelor of Agriculture (Degree with Honours)
• Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours)
• Bachelor of Biomedicine (Degree with Honours)

Students should have a sound understanding of broader biological science and an appreciation of the research process.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject will provide students with an opportunity to develop some critical thinking skills that are required for a variety of research activities. These skills will be gained from discussions, and critical evaluations, of some recently published research papers. In their written submissions, students will be required to write succinctly and accurately, while at the same time demonstrate their critical thinking in the set tasks. Attendance at regular research seminars delivered within the Faculty is recommended. Some discussion of the Faculties’ research programs which are relevant to the student’s research project will be expected

Students who have completed this subject should have acquired:

• An ability to read and assimilate specific research papers and understand how their own research relates to the broader field of research in veterinary and agricultural Science
• An understanding of how to critically review a scientific manuscript
• An ability to succinctly summarise a research paper
• Appropriate knowledge and the ability to critically evaluate knowledge gained from a range of scientific sources
• An understanding of the research methodologies necessary to design and interpret experiments

• A 500 word abstract and title for a provided paper that has the abstract and title blanked out due early in semester and worth 25%
• A 1500 word critical evaluation and review of a manuscript into which flaws have been introduced due mid-semester and worth 35%
• A 2000 word essay based on how the student’s research project fits in with the broader research programs within the Faculty due in the last week of semester and worth 40%

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Students who have completed this subject should have acquired:

• An ability to critically evaluate scientific and professional literature
• The ability to use conceptual models to rationalize experimental data
• A capacity to articulate their knowledge and understanding in written presentations
• A capacity to manage competing demands on time, including self-directed experimental work
• A capacity to enhance teamwork skills as required, and respect for integrity in the conduct and reporting of scientific investigations