This unit provides an introduction to research in the information and communications technology (ICT) discipline.

It explores the kinds of research questions addressed in ICT research and provides an opportunity for students to understand the broad range of research approaches used in ICT research including: design research, experimental research, survey research, action research and case study research.

Students will develop research skills and gain the knowledge and skills needed to critically evaluate ICT research literature.

Two major terms that currently dominate the discussion on several research and industry fields, with a special focus on Information Technology are: a) Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and b) Sustainability.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the Information Technology industry is of major importance for reasons ranging from the financial (decreasing turnover, pinpointing new market opportunities thanks to having a variety of employee perspectives, satisfying stakeholders, avoiding algorithmic errors due to biases in the collection of data) to the emotional/psychological (improving employee morale, creating a sense of community and a culture of belonging).

Sustainability focuses on allowing future generations to be able to meet their needs, by making sure that in the present we make responsible use of the resources relevant to each field of work. Sustainable ICT is crucial in topics related to energy efficiency, environmental monitoring, e-waste management, digital transformation.

BSC203 engages students in reflecting, through studying the relevant ICT research literature, on their personal values and assumptions related to Sustainability and EDI, and in understanding the role of quality education towards a sustainable and equitable future, aligning with SDGs 4, 5, and 11: https://sdgs.un.org/goals