Research Proposal Assignment and Presentation
Course: RM-898 – Research Methodology
Instructor: Dr. Zakir Khan
Submission Date: Monday, 12th May
Presentation Date: Wednesday, 14th May
Reference: Working Paper #43 (ACM-64th, 23 Jan 2023)
Assignment Objective
Develop a research proposal (min. 3000 words) and deliver a 10-minute presentation, addressing a significant
problem in Computer Science, Mining, or Civil Engineering. The proposal and presentation should demonstrate
your ability to formulate a research problem, set SMART objectives, design a methodology, and articulate socioeconomic impact, as outlined in Working Paper #43.
Research Proposal Submission
Requirements:

Word Count: Minimum 3000 words.

Format: Typed, double-spaced, 12 pt Times New Roman, PDF submission.

Submission Date: Monday, 12th May

Evaluation: Assessed by faculty using rubrics (Annex C).

Structure (per Working Paper #43):
1. Outline of Proposal: Summarize key sections.
2. Title: Descriptive (e.g., "Optimizing Kubernetes Clusters," "Mitigating AI Bias," "Assessing
Bridge Corrosion").
3. Abstract: 200-word summary of problem, objectives, methods, and outcomes.
4. Significance & Literature Review: Justify importance with 5–10 cited sources (APA format).
5. Socio-Economic Impact: Link to national development (e.g., IT growth, infrastructure safety).
6. Specific Objectives: 1 general, 2–3 SMART specific objectives.
7. Methodology: Detail design, sampling, data collection, and analysis.
8. Timeline: Table or Gantt chart of activities (e.g., 6 months).
9. Outcomes: Expected deliverables (e.g., algorithm, framework, guidelines).
10. Budget: Itemized costs (e.g., sensors, software).
11. References: APA-formatted bibliography.
Tip: Consult Working Paper #43 for detailed guidelines and Annex C for rubrics.
Research Proposal Presentation
Requirements:

Duration: Maximum 10 minutes.

Format: PowerPoint, uploaded before session start.

Presentation Date: 14th May.

Evaluation: Assessed by faculty using rubrics (Annex D).

Content:
o
Briefly cover all proposal sections (problem, objectives, methodology, impact).
o
Use visuals (e.g., charts, images of servers, AI models, bridges).
o
Highlight significance and outcomes.
Tip: Practice for clarity and time management. Refer to Annex D for presentation rubrics.
Qualifying Criteria

Marks: Minimum 60% in assessments (proposal and presentation).

Attendance: Minimum 75% class attendance.

Note: The course is qualifying only, per NUST policy (Spring 2023 implementation, excluding CIPs,
NBS, S3H).
Guidelines for Success
1. Review WP #43: Follow the detailed structure and examples in Working Paper #43.
2. Select a Topic: Choose a focused problem in Computer Science, AI, or Civil Engineering.
3. Use SMART Objectives: Ensure objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timebound.
4. Cite Sources: Include peer-reviewed references (e.g., IEEE, ACM, ASCE).
5. Prepare Early: Draft proposal and practice presentation in advance.
6. Seek Guidance: Contact Dr. Zakir Khan at drzakir@nbc.nust.edu.pk, during office hours).