2001-2002 Catalog Data: MSE 501-Planning for Discovery (3) [Rpt./ 1] II Generation and organization of ideas into an
effective research program. Problem selection, research planning, research proposal preparation and presentation. P, a basic
course in physical chemistry. (Identical with ENGR 501).
Instructor: TBA
Textbook: Class Notes
George Basalla. The Evolution of Technology. Cambridge University Press (1988)
Thomas S. Kuhn. The Structure of Scientific Revolutions The University of Chicago Press (1966)
G. Polya. How to Solve It: A new aspect of mathematical method. Princeton University Press (1973)
Prerequisite:
A basic course in physical chemistry
Overall Educational Goal:
Introduction to research methodology and development. First in the sequence of two courses (MSE 501
and 502) required for doctoral students as part of their Written Comprehensive Examination.
Specific Instructional Goals:
To survey a variety of approaches to research in literature and to expose students to the
approaches of MSE faculty members. To develop research ideas and learn to develop these into concrete research proposals. To develop
skills for the peer review process.
Course Topics: (Class Hours)
Introduction. (1)
The role of paradigms and anomalies in the scientific discovery process. (1)
Approaching and solving problems. (2)
Theories on technological change. (2)
Analysis of MSE paradigms. (2)
Literature survey methods and practical concerns. (2)
Proposal outline development in light of proposal review guidelines. Peer review. (2)
MSE faculty presentations on research development (6)
Mini proposal and literature survey development. (6)
Presentations and peer discussion of mini proposals. (2)
Class Requirements:
Attendance and participation in class discussions. Development, writing and presentation of
a mini proposal.
Computer Usage: Necessary for preparation of written materials for class and for presentation of mini proposals.
Laboratory Projects: N/A
Contribution to Professional Component:
In combination with MSE 501, the successful completion of MSE 502 satisfies the MSE department requirements for the written
component of the Doctoral Comprehensive examinaiton.
