Research Topic Abstract

Overview

Students will be assigned to groups of 4 - 5 members and will research a topic related to information technology. Students will be introduced to various tools, resources and software applications throughout the course that will aid in the preparation of a final presentation on their research findings.

Topics

Bandwidth Usage Policies
Blu-Ray Discs
Cognitive Tutors
Copyright Policies
Open Learning Initiatives
Smart Phones & Other Mobile Technology
Social Networking Sites
Virtualization
Wikis
Topic of Student's Choice

Requirements

In addition to completing the required homework assignments individually, the groups will collectively create a presentation with visual aids that covers their research topics. The presentations will be graded on the following dimensions:

• Is 10 - 12 minutes in duration
• Includes an introduction the topic (2 slides)
  • Either by providing a description of how the technology operates or by defining a current policy or philosophy
• Provides background information on the topic (1 slide)
  • Explains how the technology, policy or philosophy has evolved
• Discusses the positive aspects and/or benefits of the topic (1 slide)
• Addresses the criticisms of the topic (1 slide)
• Offers an opinion piece (1 slide)
  • Does the group recommend use of the technology or implementation of the policy?
• Is organized and rehearse

Evaluation Forms

Presentation Skills Evaluation Form

Students are required to attend the presentations of all of their classmates and will complete the Presentation Skills Evaluation Form. The form allows students to provide subjective feedback of their peers' presentations.

Peer Evaluation Form

To ensure that all group members contribute equally to the creation of the presentation, each student will complete a Peer Evaluation Form that includes a self-assessment.

Instructor Evaluation Form

Your instructor will grade your presentation on the dimensions listed above. For a breakdown of the point values assigned to each aspect of the presentation, please see the Instructor Evaluation Form.

Grading

The group presentation is worth 25% of your overall grade.

Students will also rate the performance of the other members of their group. The Peer Evaluation Form is worth 5% of your overall grade.