COURSEWORK

SELF-ASSESSMENT

Ø "PERSONAL ENGAGEMENT" CRITERION - Overall grade: 1 2

YES NO
The topic choice is justified with significance, interest or curiosity (e.g.: I wonder
X
why…) and enthusiasm in report style is evident.
The research question is novel/new/unusual and / or relevant to a local or global issue
X
and links to a potential solution.
The design of the investigation is your own and include some personal input even if X
based on prior research.
An innovative approach is used to answer the research question even if based on
prior research because it does not repeat it (i.e.: the investigation as yours cannot be
X
found on the Internet nor in a book).

Ø "EXPLORATION" CRITERION - Overall grade: 1 2 3 4 5 6

How do I introduce my research problem? YES NO

The title I have chosen gives a clear and concrete idea of the work I do. X
I have introduced the research topic I am going to develop the research
X
question about.

The objective and / or research question is clear and relates to the work I have done.
X

I have justified why I have chosen that research question. X

The dependent variable (what I measure) is clearly defined, including units. X

The independent variable (what I manipulate) is clearly defined, including units. X

I clearly state all the relevant controlled variable(s)
X
(controlled variable is one that can affect what I measure).

How do I describe the working method? YES NO

I explain why I use this research method. X

If the method is not mine, I quote the sources of where I got it. X
I include a list of absolutely all the material used, indicating its dimensions, X
material, uncertainty, maximum range, etc.
I present a clear methodology that shows the detailed way of measuring (quantifying) X
the dependent variable, step by step.

I indicate how the independent variable varies. X

I indicate how I control the variables that might affect the dependent variable but that
X
are outside of my study.

I include a diagram of set up that clarifies the method described, if necessary. X

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Ø "ANALYSIS" CRITERION - Overall grade: 1 2 3 4 5 6

How do I collect the data? YES NO

I have collected all the raw data and the observations (qualitative data) relevant
X
to my method.
I have varied the independent variable enough to be able to answer my
X
research question.
I collected enough quantitative data of the dependent variable for the different values X
of the independent variable.

I have included the appropriate units for all measurements. X

I have included the corresponding uncertainty for all measures. X

The number of significant figures that I have used is adequate for each measure, that
is, the uncertainty and the measurement are consistent in terms of the number of X
significant figures.

For anyone who reads this research, it is clear what each collected data represents. X
If I present a table with the data obtained, I included the table number, title, columns
with appropriate headings. X
(Ex: title of the header with the appropriate units and uncertainties)

How do I process the data? YES NO

I have chosen the correct way to process the data (calculations, graphs,
X
statistical measurements...)
If I have made graphics I have reviewed the list "If I have made a graph..."
X
(check below)
The data processing leads me to fulfil my objective and / or answers my research X
question.

I have correctly propagated the uncertainties X

Can I extract from the data obtained a valid and detailed conclusion that answers my
X
research question?

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If I made a graph... YES NO

Have I indicated the graph number and what it represents? X

Does my graphic have a title that clearly expresses the variables that I represent? X

Have I expressed on each axis what magnitude I represent and its units? X

Have I chosen an appropriate scale for the axes showing also the origin?
X

I have included legends when necessary?

X
(e.g.: colours, icons, etc. when several graphics are presented in one)

Do error bars appear in my graph or, if they are not relevant, do I indicate why? X

Have I drawn the line of best fit, if it is the case, and its equation if relevant? X
Have I indicated the coefficient that indicates the goodness of the adjustment if this
X
has been done?
Is the printing of the graphic of enough quality for anyone to understand without
X
difficulty?

Ø “EVALUATION” CRITERION - Overall grade: 1 2 3 4 5 6

YES NO
I make a coherent interpretation of the results obtained by analysing the data
X
and / or graphs, and then I draw a detailed conclusion.

The conclusion answers my objective and / or research question. X

The conclusion is based on the interpretation of the results, not on assumptions.

X

I argue my conclusion with the theories and physical concepts studied and / or that I X
exposed in the research topic.
I compare my experimental results, if it is the case, with theoretical data and I quote
X
the sources of the latter.
If I think it is relevant, I mention secondary conclusions that complement my research
X
question.

I value the limitations of my data X

I identify random and / or systematic errors and their sources. X

In the case of systematic errors, I explain how they affected my result. X

I evaluate the effect of uncertainties in my conclusion. X

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I evaluate the method that I followed in my research (limitations and influence of
X
these).
I identify if the errors / weak points justify the values obtained (and its variation with
X
respect to the published value if it is the case).
I evaluate if the number of data collected in practice has been sufficient to give a
good conclusion (possibility of having made several repetitions, enough data, in X
graphics, etc.)

I suggest modifications to improve each one of the weak points. X

My suggestions are realistic, clear, specific and achievable. X

I detail each improvement that I propose and I indicate how it would influence the
X
result.
I suggest how to expand my research or propose future investigations that could be
X
done after mine.

Ø “COMMUNICATION” CRITERION - Overall grade: 1 2 3 4

YES NO

My report is well structured (e.g.: title, headings, etc.). X

rd
Impersonal and consistent report style used (e.g.: passive/3 person). X

Tables and graphs do not break across pages.

X

I have mentioned in the bibliography section at the end of the report .all the sources X
where I have taken information from.

The ideas I have expressed have been relevant and concise X

All the images, graphs, data, tables and background information is relevant to the
research question.

The report is 6-12 pages (without including annexes). X

The report is easy to read and “flows”. X

The use of excess jargon in avoided. X

Non-standard technical terms are explained are explained and used properly. X

I have reviewed all the aspects referred to in the previous criteria. X

Ø PERSONAL SATISFACTION (NOT A ASSESSED CRITERION ITSELF)

YES NO
After analysing all these aspects, are you satisfied in general with the research
X
you have done?
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