IFN001:Advanced Information Research Skills (AIRS) is an information and research skills unit for Higher Degree Research students and researchers.
As a researcher, this unit will assist you to be effective and efficient in your use of information and data resources and systems. Designed specifically to meet the needs of HDR (doctoral) students preparing their Stage 2 research proposal, IFN001:AIRS helps you to research faster and smarter.
The unit content (and assessment) is available accessible via the AIRS website.
Curriculum and assessment
The unit content lays the foundations of the graduate capabilities within the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) 2011: Level 10 required at the completion of a higher research degree. The curriculum includes:
- formulating a good research question
- advanced search strategies
- sourcing and evaluating quality literature
- bibliographic and data management
- note-taking strategies
- citation analysis and research impact
- collaboration tools
- authorship and academic integrity
- publishing and funding
Assessment is a requirement for IF49 students and is due 3 months (full time) or 6 months (part time) from the date of enrolment in IF49. The assessment is also suitable (but not compulsory) for undergraduate honours and postgraduate coursework students (AQFLevels 8-9) engaging in original research.
The content is open-source, creative commons licensed so it may also be used by non-QUT students, researchers, staff and community guests who wish to develop more advanced research capabilities.
Eligibility, enrolment and classes
IF49 (Doctoral students):
IFN001 is a mandatory coursework requirement for Higher Degree Research (HDR) students enrolled in IF49 (see "Doctor of Philosophy Course Regulations" (Section 5.2.2) - Research Students Centre | Candidature Management). All IF49 students are automatically enrolled in IFN001.
Please refer to QUT Virtual for details regarding your enrolment in IFN001. For details regarding the unit structure, objectives and assessment requirements, please go to the INF001 information page. The assessment (Resource Log) will be due 6 months from the date of enrolment.
Supplementary classes are available for IFN001 students throughout the year - register here. These classes will further assist your understanding and provide additional support for you in the completion of your Resource Log. You are expected to be familiar with the module content before attending class.
NB: Students enrolled in IFN001 prior to June 2012 - the old course and assessment is accessible from the AIRS archive.
QUT academic, research and professional staff (non-IF49)
If you are not enrolled in IF49, you may enrol in IFN001:AIRS via QUT Virtual. Assessment is required as part of enrolment in the unit and will be due 6 months from the date of your enrolment in IFN001.
Masters (Research) and early career research students (eg: Honours):
For 2012-2013, further enrolment is on application. Be aware that fees may apply, and assessment is required as part of enrolment (due 6 months from the date of your enrolment in the unit). Unless you are already enrolled in Virtual as part of your particular course, please contact the AIRS team via email on airs@qut.edu.au for further details.
Non-HDR students and non-QUT students and staff:
You are welcome to access and use the AIRS website to develop your own advanced research capabilities. While assessment is not required, you may download and use the resource log and materials to assist your own learning.
Exemptions
IF49 students only: if you believe you are eligible for exemption from IFN001:AIRS, please discuss with your supervisor and complete a Request for Exemption Form available from the Research Students Centre. You will be required to demonstrate a high level of capability to your Confirmation Panel as part of your confirmation of candidature process.
Contacts
Unit enrolment, assessment requirements and general enquiries: airs@qut.edu.au.
Assistance with discipline-specific and specialist resources relating to your assessment and research: contact your faculty Liaison Librarian.
