RMPP - Unit Objectives & Reflections

• Introduce the elements within the scientific method.
• Introduce the various aspects of ethical issues in research, and by extension, in professional practice.

• Differentiate between inductive and deductive reasoning.
• Understand why ethics are important and how they may relate to your area of research and your professional practice.
• List several common roles within the Information Security profession.

Reflecting on the concepts of inductive and deductive reasoning and ethics in the context of my current experience as a senior consultant in unified communications, I realise the critical role they play in providing effective and ethical consulting services.

Inductive reasoning is essential in analysing data and identifying patterns that can help in making informed decisions about system design and optimisation. Deductive reasoning, on the other hand, allows applying industry-standard best practices to specific components of the system to identify potential issues or opportunities (Dawson, 2015).

Furthermore, ethical considerations are crucial in ensuring compliance with industry standards and guidelines and protecting users' data and privacy. Obtaining informed consent from users before collecting data or using it for any purpose is a necessary step in the ethical consulting process (Bailey et al., 2013).

Incorporating these concepts into my work can help me provide more effective and ethical consulting services that meet industry standards and protect users' data and privacy.

Bailey, M., Dittrich, D., & Kenneally, E, E. (2013) Applying Ethical Principles to Information and Communication Technology Research: A Companion to the Menlo Report. Available from: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2342036 [Accessed 27th January 2023].

Dawson, C. (2015) Projects in Computing and Information Systems: A Student's Guide. 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available via the Vitalsource Bookshelf. [Accessed 26 January 2023].

• Look at how you formulate and revise research questions.
• Look at all the parts that make up a research proposal and how to present your thoughts.
• Explain what a literature review is, how to perform it and how to present it.

• Examine the characteristics that make up a suitable research topic.
• Explore rational and creative methods for formulating a research idea.
• Identify means of transforming research ideas into crafted research questions and proposal.
• Conduct a literature search, critique the literature and to present a literature review.

During this unit, I developed a Research Project Template for the research project. I also utilised the Literature Review Guide Questions provided by Healey et al. (2020) to guide my literature review and ensure that I included all relevant information.

Furthermore, in this unit, I responded to my colleagues' initial posts through peer responses. To form constructive responses, I studied various research papers and journals. The collaborative discussions were beneficial as I gained insights from my colleagues' different perspectives.

However, the challenge I faced during this unit was the insufficient time allocated to complete all the required tasks before the end of the unit. I felt that the time given was not enough to complete all the necessary tasks.

References

Healey, M., Matthews, K., & Cook-Sather, A. (2020) Writing about Learning and Teaching in Higher Education: Creating and Contributing to Scholarly Conversations across a Range of Genres. Elon, NC: Elon University Center for Engaged Learning. Available from: https://doi.org/10.36284/celelon.oa3 [Accessed 3 February 2023].

• Introduce the concept of exploratory and descriptive research designs.
• Introduce 3 research methods – quantitative, qualitative and mixed method research - as well as primary and secondary research methods, and the data collection methods associated with each one.

• Understand the different research methods.
• Know which data collection methods are related to each method of research.
• Have some idea which of these would be suited to your area of research.

Reflecting on this unit, I gained a deeper understanding of the differences between quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research. Through the course materials and additional readings, I learned about the advantages and limitations of each method, and how to choose the most appropriate method for my research question (Dawson, 2015).

Moreover, I completed an e-portfolio activity that allowed me to explore potential research areas for my proposal. This activity challenged me to think critically and creatively about the research questions I could address in my proposal. By considering various options and ideas, I was able to narrow down my research question and focus on a specific area of interest.

Overall, this unit has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop a well-designed research proposal. I am now better equipped to choose the most appropriate research method for my question and create a focused and well-articulated research proposal.

References

Dawson, C. (2015) Projects in Computing and Information Systems: A Student's Guide. 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available via the Vitalsource Bookshelf. [Accessed 26 January 2023].

• Introduce you to case studies, focus groups and observation methods.
• Discuss the advantage and drawbacks of these methods.
• Consider the types of data you will obtain.

• Understand how to carry out each of these data collection methods.
• Know which method would be suitable, if any, for your investigation.
• Consider the type of data you would obtain.

This unit focused on data collection methods and provided me with a comprehensive understanding of various techniques, such as action research, case study observation, experiment, and survey. Selecting the most appropriate method for the research question and methodology is crucial, as each method offers unique advantages and limitations (Dawson, 2015). For example, case study observation can be an effective method in qualitative research, while surveys and experiments can be useful in quantitative research (Dawson, 2015).

Understanding the research methodology is also crucial in selecting an appropriate data collection method (Dawson, 2015). Overall, this unit emphasized the importance of selecting the most appropriate data collection method that aligns with the research question and methodology. I now understand what data I am able to collect to align with my research objectives.

Dawson, C. (2015) Projects in Computing and Information Systems: A Student's Guide. 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available via the Vitalsource Bookshelf. [Accessed 26 January 2023].

• Introduce you to interview methods and survey methods.
• Consider the definitions of population and sample.
• Introduce the concept of pre- and post-testing.

• Understand how interviews and surveys fit into research and whether either or both of these might be useful for your investigation.
• Understand how pre- and post-testing can be used in research.

Unit 5 emphasized the importance of interviews and surveys in data collection. The significance of body language during interviews stood out for me. I have learnt that as a researcher, being attentive to non-verbal cues can provide valuable insights that may not be evident through verbal responses. For example, observing body language can help to identify hidden emotions related to a research question (Lecturecast, n.d.).

The use of surveys is also a valuable tool in data collection that I could possibly use in my research. Careful consideration should be given to question design to obtain accurate and reliable data. The wording and structure of questions can impact the responses obtained. Designing well-structured survey questions can ensure accurate and reliable data collection, which is crucial in answering the research question.

Lecturecast (n.d) Interviews and Survey Design – RMPP Lecturecast. Available from: https://www.my-course.co.uk/Computing/Computer%20Science/RMPP/RMPP%20Lecturecast%202/content/index.html#/lessons/KHCyTIrbHf_lp9YOntN0uyfucW3mJ5Tf [Accessed 26 February 2023].

• Introduce the different methods of obtaining responses.
• Discuss how to improve the responses you obtain.
• Consider how you would analyse the responses from each type of question.

• Tell the difference between a good questionnaire and a poor one.
• Design a questionnaire to obtain the responses you will need for your investigation.
• Understand how the data obtained can be analysed.

During this unit, I received feedback on my literature review outline, which I found to be very useful. The feedback helped me to answer some outstanding questions and clarify the focus of my literature review. I had initially attempted to cover too many aspects of the topic, without delving deeper into a specific area. The feedback helped me to recognise this and adjust my approach.

Furthermore, by completing the lecturecast and essential reading, I gained an understanding of the distinct difference between a questionnaire and a survey, as well as their applications in a research project. I learned the distinct difference between an questionnaire and a survey (QuestionPro, 2021).

Overall, this unit has taught me the importance of receiving feedback and being open to constructive criticism in order to improve my work. It has also highlighted the importance of understanding the differences between data collection methods, such as questionnaires and surveys, and their applications in research.

References

QuestionPro (2021) Questionnaire vs Survey: Is there a Difference? Available from: https://www.questionpro.com/blog/questionnaire-vs-survey-difference/ [Accessed 2 March 2023].

• Introduce the concepts of validity, generalisability and reliability and how they impact on your research design.
• Consider the differences between qualitative and quantitative data and how to analyse and present your results.

• Understand how the concepts of validity, generalisability and reliability affect your investigation and the design of your research method.
• Consider how to analyse and present the results you obtain from your investigation and how they will enable you to answer your research question.

In this unit I had been thinking about a research proposal topic on VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) security testing. The concepts of validity, generalisability, and reliability are essential in shaping my investigation and designing my research method for VoIP security testing. Validity refers to the accuracy of the measurement, while reliability refers to the consistency of the measurement over time. Generalisability refers to the extent to which the findings can be generalised to other settings or populations (Lecturecast, n.d.).

In the context of VoIP security, these concepts are crucial to ensure the validity and reliability of the research method used. I have learnt that it is important to choose appropriate sampling techniques to obtain reliable and representative results. Moreover, to increase the generalisability of my findings, I must ensure that my research covers different scenarios, and not just limited to one specific situation.

Ultimately, these concepts will guide me in selecting appropriate research methods and instruments that will help me produce accurate and reliable results for VoIP security testing.

References

Lecturecast (n.d.) Validity & Generalisability – RMPP Lecturecast. Available from: https://www.my-course.co.uk/Computing/Computer%20Science/RMPP/RMPP%20Lecturecast%204/content/index.html#/lessons/99E-t1iM4hnjfakW711XbRyL0I6JMiS4 [Accessed 8 March 2023].

• Define the different levels of quantitative data.
• Define measures of location and spread.
• Introduce the concept of inference and hypothesis testing.

• Identify the different levels of measurement.
• Produce measures of location and spread.
• Perform appropriate hypothesis tests.

In this unit I was provided with an insightful introduction to statistical inference and hypothesis testing. In addition, the unit emphasized the importance of identifying the different levels of quantitative data, measures of location and spread, and hypothesis testing (Lecturecast, n.d.).

Regarding my VoIP security testing research project, the concepts of statistical inference and hypothesis testing will be crucial in identifying any potential security vulnerabilities in VoIP networks. It will be important to carefully select the appropriate measures of location and spread for the data collected, as well as identifying the different levels of measurement (Privitera, 2018). However, it will also be necessary to consider the limitations and assumptions of these statistical techniques, and to ensure that any conclusions drawn are valid and generalisable. Overall, I believe this unit provided a solid foundation for understanding the different types of quantitative data analysis, but further exploration and application will be necessary in the context of my research project.

Lecturecast (n.d.) Summary Measures and Inference. Available from: https://www.my-course.co.uk/Computing/Computer%20Science/RMPP/RMPP%20Lecturecast%205/content/index.html#/ [Accessed 20 March 2023].

Privitera, G. (2018) Statistics for the behavioural sciences - Introduction to Hypothesis Testing. 3rd Ed. Los Angeles: Sage.

• Introduce the various ways to analyse, interpret and present results from qualitative data.
• Discuss the advantages and drawbacks of each of these methods.

• Understand the different types of analysis and how they may be useful for the data you have collected.
• Understand the different charts available to present the different types of data you have obtained.

This unit provided a valuable opportunity to learn about different analysis techniques for quantitative data. The chart worksheets and analysis exercises were particularly beneficial in reinforcing my understanding of statistical concepts. The exercises also served as a reminder of my undergraduate engineering statistics module, which further emphasized the importance of graphical data presentation.

In addition, inference and hypothesis testing examples were performed which are vital aspects of statistical analysis. I learned about the importance of ensuring the methodology used in a research project is valid for the variables of interest and how different levels of measurement can impact statistical analysis (Berenson et al., 2015). These techniques will be useful in analysing the data collected during my research and drawing meaningful conclusions.

Berenson, L., Levine, D. & Szabat, K. (2015) Basic Business Statistics: Concepts and Applications. 13th ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available from: https://web-s-ebscohost-com.uniessexlib.idm.oclc.org/ehost/ebookviewer/ebook/bmxlYmtfXzE0MTk1NDVfX0FO0?sid=8169ed90-e09e-4140-9e5e-b0a75bf1551e@redis&vid=0&format=EB&lpid=lp_Title&rid=0 [Accessed 26 January 2023].

• Consider research reporting/writing.
• Consider the various sections in a dissertation and how to approach each of them.

• Understand how to structure a dissertation and how to prepare yourself for the writing.

In this unit, I found the focus on research writing particularly beneficial. The lecturecast and unit reading material was very informative and shed light on the essential elements of academic writing for dissertation projects (Dawson, 2015). It helped me to develop a better understanding of how to structure and present my research findings in a clear and concise manner (Lecturecast, n.d.).

Moreover, the research presentation task provided me with an opportunity to enhance my presentation skills. Initially, I struggled with finding the right tone and wording for the presentation and staying within the allocated 15 minutes. As a result, I had to re-record the presentation numerous times, which was a bit frustrating but it allowed me to practice and improve my delivery. I learned the importance of planning and organising my content and how to effectively communicate complex ideas to an audience. Overall, this unit has helped me to become a better researcher and communicator.

Dawson, C. (2015) Projects in Computing and Information Systems: A Student's Guide. 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available via the Vitalsource Bookshelf. [Accessed 26 January 2023].

Lecturecast (n.d.) Research Writing. Available from: https://www.my-course.co.uk/Computing/Computer%20Science/RMPP/RMPP%20Lecturecast%206/content/index.html#/lessons/y9jlKf3Xl6OR3MutoK7eUuWalfbNX_lz [Accessed 28 March 2023].

• Review your learning approach based on your reflections on your learning process.
• Review the Professional Skills matrix, considering your professional goals and the outcomes of the modules you have undertaken in your programme.

• Provide necessary reflection for the completion your learning loop.
• Complete the Professional Skills matrix and ensuing action plan.

I found this unit on e-portfolios very informative and insightful. Through the lectures and essential reading items, I have gained an understanding of the benefits of using e-portfolios as a tool for reflection, self-assessment, and showcasing achievements (Weber, 2018).

Performing a SWOT analysis and completing the Action template allowed me to identify areas for improvement and areas where I can leverage my strengths to enhance my professional practice. It was a useful exercise in evaluating my own skills, knowledge, and experience and how I can utilise them to achieve my career goals.

As a student, the use of e-portfolios has the potential to enhance my learning experience by providing a more personalised and interactive way of tracking my progress and reflecting on my learning (Winchell, 2018). Furthermore, as a professional in the field of unified communications, e-portfolios can serve as a platform for showcasing my skills and experience to potential clients and employers.

Weber, K. (2018) Employer perceptions of an engineering student’s electronic portfolio. International Journal of ePortoflio 8(1): 57–71. Available from: https://www.theijep.com/pdf/IJEP272.pdf [Accessed 6 April 2023].

Winchell, Z. (2018) E-Portfolios and Their Uses in Higher Education. Available from: https://ctl.wiley.com/e-portfolios-and-their-uses-in-higher-education/ [Accessed 6 April 2023].

• Define and explain the concept of project management.
• Introduce you to the concept of project life cycles and project methodologies.
• Explore how projects can be impacted by risk and uncertainty.
• Learn about the relationship between risks, assumptions and constraints and the threats and opportunities which risks can pose.
• Learn how to develop a risk management plan and change management process for projects.

• Define and explain the concept of project management.
• Demonstrate an appreciation of project life cycles and methodologies.
• Appreciate some of the technologies/software needed to support remote collaboration.
• Understand and explain how projects can be impacted by risk and uncertainty.
• Prepare a risk management plan.
• Appreciate how to control risk and manage project change effectively.

In this unit, I learned about various concepts in project management, including risk assessment, managing change, and uncertainty (Mircea, 2019). The essential reading items provided valuable insight into the importance of project management, how to plan and execute projects, and how to manage risks and change effectively (Maylor, 2010). As a senior consultant in unified communications, I found this information to be especially useful as I often work on projects that require extensive planning and coordination.

The self-test in this unit helped me to further understand the theory and apply it in real-world scenarios as well as gain a deeper understanding of its importance. Overall, I feel better equipped to take on project management roles, contribute to successful project outcomes and feel confident managing my capstone project.

Maylor, H. (2010) Project Management. 4th ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available from: https://ebookcentral-proquest-com.uniessexlib.idm.oclc.org/lib/universityofessex-ebooks/detail.action?docID=5173571 [Accessed 28 January 2023].

Mircea, E. (2019) Project Management using Agile Frameworks. Economy Informatics 19(1): 34-44. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338249315_Project_Management_using_Agile_Frameworks [Accessed 12 April 2023].

The Research Methods and Professional Practice (RMPP) module has covered a wide range of topics, providing me with a deeper understanding of various subjects and equipping me with valuable knowledge and skills that I may use both professionally and academically. Reflecting on the entire module, it has been an enriching and enlightening experience.

The first three units introduced me to the concept of critical thinking, which was foundational to the entire module. Through these units, I learned how to identify arguments both inductive and deductive and the importance of evidence-based reasoning (Miessler, 2020). In addition, the collaborative discussions held during these units proved to be highly beneficial, as they helped me gain a better understanding of the topics of ethics and professional practice. I learned how to apply ethical theories to real-world scenarios and how to make ethical decisions that align with my values and principles. Through working together and considering my colleagues' viewpoints, I was able to deepen my knowledge on this subject and explore different perspectives on the topic. In the context of my current experience as a senior consultant in unified communications, I realise the critical role these topics play in providing effective and ethical consulting services as well as protecting user’s data and privacy (Bailey et al., 2013).

In terms of research methods, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the research process from developing research questions to data collection and analysis. The units’ essential reading material has emphasized the importance of a well-planned research design and the various methods (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods) and techniques available for collecting and analysing data (Saunders et al., 2012). The concepts of validity, reliability, and generalisability have also been stressed, which has enabled me to ensure the quality of my research findings. These concepts challenged me to think critically and creatively about the research methods and questions I could possibly address in my capstone project.

By completing a literature review assessment on a selected topic, I gained a comprehensive understanding of how to conduct a systematic search for literature, as well as identify the gaps in literature, evaluate the relevance and quality of the sources, and synthesize the information into a coherent narrative. Furthermore, through receiving constructive criticism and formative feedback from my tutor, I was able to identify the areas where my literature review fell short and understand how to improve my research and writing skills in the future.

The chart worksheets and analysis exercises were particularly beneficial in reinforcing my understanding of statistical concepts. The exercises also served as a reminder of my undergraduate engineering statistics module, which also emphasized the importance of graphical data presentation (Dawson, 2015). In addition, inference and hypothesis testing examples were performed which are vital aspects of statistical analysis. I learned about the importance of ensuring the methodology used in a research project is valid for the variables of interest and how different levels of measurement can impact statistical analysis (Berenson et al., 2015). I now feel confident in my ability to select appropriate statistical tests, analyse data, and present findings in a visually aesthetically pleasing manner.

Moreover, the research presentation task provided me with an opportunity to enhance my presentation skills. As part of my current work, I present on a regular basis, however, with this task I learned the importance of planning and organising my content and how to effectively communicate complex ideas to a non-technical audience. Overall, rehearsing and presenting numerous times has helped me to become an effective communicator.

The completion of the professional skills matrix, Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis, and action plan has had a significant impact on my personal and professional experience. The professional skills matrix allowed me to reflect on my current strengths and weaknesses in terms of my professional skillset. This reflection has motivated me to continue to develop my strengths while working on improving my weaknesses. The SWOT analysis provided an opportunity to evaluate the external factors that may impact my career and how to capitalise on opportunities while minimising threats. The action plan has allowed me to set achievable goals to develop my skills and increase my employability in the future.

Lastly, the module ended off discussing various concepts of project management, project lifecycles and how projects can be impacted by risk and uncertainty (Maylor, 2010). The essential reading items provided valuable insight into the importance of project management, how to plan and execute projects, and how to manage risks and change effectively (Mircea, 2019). I found this information to be especially useful in my line of work as I often work on projects that require extensive planning and coordination.

In conclusion, the module has challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and apply ethical principles to real-world scenarios. By far, it has been a module that requires many hours of focused work and being able to juggle between, assessments, e-Portfolio activities, seminars, and collaborative discussions at the same time. However, I believe that the knowledge and skills I have gained from this module will be instrumental in my future endeavours. As a senior consultant in unified communications, I have been able to apply the skills acquired in this module to my professional work. The module has equipped me with research and data analysis skills that are essential to support my consulting services. Moreover, the confidence and motivation I have gained from the module will be useful in my capstone project, where I intend to conduct a literature review, analyse and present data critically. Overall, this module has provided me with valuable insights that will positively impact my professional development. I am both grateful and humbled by the knowledge I have acquired, and I am eager to continue applying this knowledge to my career and personal life.

Bailey, M., Dittrich, D., & Kenneally, E, E. (2013) Applying Ethical Principles to Information and Communication Technology Research: A Companion to the Menlo Report. Available from: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2342036 [Accessed 27th January 2023].

Berenson, L., Levine, D. & Szabat, K. (2015) Basic Business Statistics: Concepts and Applications. 13th ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available from: https://web-s-ebscohost-com.uniessexlib.idm.oclc.org/ehost/ebookviewer/ebook/bmxlYmtfXzE0MTk1NDVfX0FO0?sid=8169ed90-e09e-4140-9e5e-b0a75bf1551e@redis&vid=0&format=EB&lpid=lp_Title&rid=0 [Accessed 26 January 2023].

Dawson, C. (2015) Projects in Computing and Information Systems: A Student's Guide. 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available via the Vitalsource Bookshelf. [Accessed 26 January 2023].

Maylor, H. (2010) Project Management. 4th ed. Harlow: Pearson. Available from: https://ebookcentral-proquest-com.uniessexlib.idm.oclc.org/lib/universityofessex-ebooks/detail.action?docID=5173571 [Accessed 28 January 2023].

Miessler, D. (2020) The Difference between Deductive and Inductive Reasoning. Available from: https://danielmiessler.com/blog/the-difference-between-deductive-and-inductive-reasoning/ [Accessed 27 January 2023].

Mircea, E. (2019) Project Management using Agile Frameworks. Economy Informatics 19(1): 34-44. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338249315_Project_Management_using_Agile_Frameworks [Accessed 12 April 2023].

Saunders, M., Lewis, P. & Thornhill, A. (2012) Research Methods for Business Students 6th ed. Essex: Pearson Education Limited. Available from: https://gibsoncollege.edu.et/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Research-Methods-for-Business-Students-by-Mark-Saunders-Philip-Lewis-Adrian-Thornhill-z-lib.org-1.pdf [Accessed 30 January 2023].