Course Topics
The course addresses key challenges in scientific research and equips students with effective methods for conducting and reporting research.

Teaching format
Frontal lectures, hands-on activity, and discussion.

Educational objectives
Knowledge and understanding D1.2 be able to analyse and solve even complex problems in the area of Software Engineering with particular emphasis on the use of empirical evaluation studies, methods, techniques, and technologies. D1.7 know the various fields of application of Software Engineering also with reference to the local, national, and international economic-social context. D1.8 ability to read, understand, and elaborate on specialist scientific documentation, such as conference proceedings, articles in scientific journals, technical manuals. Applying knowledge and understanding D2.2 know how to design and carry out empirical studies of software systems in order to acquire measurements of their behaviour and evaluate experimental hypotheses in different application fields, such as business, industry, education, or research. Making judgements D3.1 ability to independently select documentation from various sources, including technical books, digital libraries, technical scientific journals, web portals, or open source software and hardware tools. D3.5 ability to work with broad autonomy, taking responsibility for projects and structures. Communication skills D4.1 ability to present the contents of a scientific/technical report in a set time in front of diverse audiences, including non-specialists. Learning skills D5.1 ability to independently extend the knowledge acquired during the course of study by reading and understanding scientific and technical documentation in English.

Assessment
Attending students Project work [70% of mark] + final exam (oral) [30% of mark]. Project work is needed to assess ILOs D1.2, D1.8, D2.2, D3.1, and D3.5. The oral exam is needed to assess ILOs D1.7, D1.8, D2.2, D4.1, and D5.1. Project work and final exam are mandatory, and both must be positive to pass the exam. In case of a positive mark for the project work, the mark will count for the remaining regular exam sessions. In case of negative evaluation of the project work, a new project needs to be submitted for the next session. Project work must be evaluated BEFORE the final exam, otherwise the exam cannot be registered. To be classified as an "attending student," students must attend at least 75% of the lab hours. Non-attending students Final exam (oral) [100% of mark]. Verification questions and discussion about the topics of the course. ILOs assessed: all.

Evaluation criteria
Relevant for the final exam assessment: correctness of answers, clarity of answers, ability to summarize, and deep understanding of the course topics. Relevant for the project work assessment: skills in critical thinking, identification of interesting research questions, correct application of the research methods, effectiveness in the results, and quality of the final report.