Course objectives: This module requires students to prepare a research plan related to their thesis project incorporating a literature review, a clear statement of hypotheses or questions to be addressed, methods to be implemented, and output expectations. It prepares students for the dissertation phase. The module provides an opportunity for research hypotheses to be developed and refined.

Course contents: This module requires students to prepare a plan for the research that they will undertake during the dissertation phase. The plan must incorporate a literature review, a clear statement of hypotheses or questions to be addressed, an outline of the methods to be used and methods to be implemented, output expectations, a realistic timetable, and elements of logistical organization. The review is expected to contain a critical appraisal of the assembled material. During the final stages students are required to give a 15 minute presentation on their topic to members of academic staff and their peers. This is assessed formatively and provides another opportunity for refining the research plan.

Teaching and learning methods: 1. 9 hours staff tutorials, advice and consultation, 3. Presentations 1-2 hours per student.

Examination: The written report and oral defence of the research project are evaluated by a board of supervisors.

Competences acquired: Students will be able to 1. collect, critically evaluate, synthesise and report on information on an agreed topic to an agreed standard; 2. generate hypotheses or questions that can be tested in a scientific experiment or other form of investigation; 3. build a realistic timetable and identify valuable scientific and operational outputs of a research project.

Course homepage: http://www.agroparistech.fr/en/Training/Emetf/Emetf.htm