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Unit outline_

CIVL5223: Dissertation B

Semester 1, 2025 [Supervision] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

To complete a substantial research project and successfully analyse a problem, devise appropriate experiments, analyse the results and produce a well-argued, in-depth thesis.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Civil Engineering
Credit points 12
Prerequisites
? 
CIVL5222
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
CIVL5020 or CIVL5021 or CIVL5022
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Fengji Luo, fengji.luo@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length
Presentation Presentation / Seminar
Seminar to present the capstone research project to an academic audience.
20% Formal exam period 20 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO7
Small continuous assessment Project description
Early description of the project, dissertation A submission.
2% Ongoing 1 page
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2
Attendance Literature review and progress report
Review of literature related to the project and the plan of the project. Dissertation A submission.
13% Ongoing 18 pages
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO6 LO4 LO3
Presentation Mini-presentation
Capstone A submission
5% Ongoing 5 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO7 LO6 LO2
Dissertation hurdle task Thesis
Final thesis document.
60% Week 13
Due date: 30 May 2025 at 23:59
90 pages
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
hurdle task = hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

Cf. assignment table.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

 

Distinction

75 - 84

 

Credit

65 - 74

 

Pass

50 - 64

 

Fail

0 - 49

When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Except for supervised exams or in-semester tests, you may use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessments unless expressly prohibited by your unit coordinator. 

For exams and in-semester tests, the use of AI and automated writing tools is not allowed unless expressly permitted in the assessment instructions. 

The icons in the assessment table above indicate whether AI is allowed – whether full AI, or only some AI (the latter is referred to as “AI restricted”). If no icon is shown, AI use is not permitted at all for the task. Refer to Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks for this unit. 

Your final submission must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of automated writing tools or generative AI, and any material generated that you include in your final submission must be properly referenced. You may be required to submit generative AI inputs and outputs that you used during your assessment process, or drafts of your original work. Inappropriate use of generative AI is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply. 

The Current Students website provides information on artificial intelligence in assessments. For help on how to correctly acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the  AI in Education Canvas site

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Follows University of Sydney guidelines.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy 2023 reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy 2023. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Weekly Weekly meeting with supervisor and independent research work on research project Individual study (16 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 12 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 240-300 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. formulate and plan a personal research project
  • LO2. demonstrate originality, ingenuity and initiative in dealing with critical research issues
  • LO3. demonstrate in-depth knowledge of a specialised area within the discipline
  • LO4. formulate an appropriate method for investigating a specific research question
  • LO5. analyse raw data, draw appropriate conclusions and present those conclusions in context, with due consideration of methods and assumptions involved
  • LO6. document and report research work undertaken in a format appropriate for academic literature
  • LO7. deliver a research presentation that is clear, confident and engaging to an academic audience.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
1.1. Preparation & endorsement of an agreement between client and Architect. This agreement will clearly communicate terms, services to be provided, and fees appropriate for the scale and type of project.
1.2. Establishment, analysis and evaluation of client project requirements and objectives.
1.3. Assessment of project budget and timeframe against project requirements and objectives.
1.4. Identification of factors that may impact on client project requirements and objectives.
LO2
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
1.1. Preparation & endorsement of an agreement between client and Architect. This agreement will clearly communicate terms, services to be provided, and fees appropriate for the scale and type of project.
2.1. Identification, analysis and integration of information relevant to siting of project.
LO3
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
1.2. Establishment, analysis and evaluation of client project requirements and objectives.
1.4. Identification of factors that may impact on client project requirements and objectives.
1.5. Knowledge of different procurement processes available and evaluation of the impact these have on the project.
2.1. Identification, analysis and integration of information relevant to siting of project.
LO4
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
4.1. Evaluation of design options in relation to project requirements.
4.2. Evaluation of design options against values of physical, environmental and cultural contexts.
4.3. Application of creative imagination aesthetic judgement to produce coherent design
4.4. Inclusion of expertise of relevant specialists and consultants in developing the project design.
4.5. Investigation and integration of appropriate structural, construction, service and transport systems in the project design.
4.6. Investigation and integration of appropriate material selection for the project design.
4.7. Coordination and integration of appropriate environmental systems, including for thermal comfort, lighting and acoustics.
4.8. Analysis of schematic design in regard to cost planning and timeframe to comply with client and project requirements.
LO5
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
4.1. Evaluation of design options in relation to project requirements.
4.2. Evaluation of design options against values of physical, environmental and cultural contexts.
4.3. Application of creative imagination aesthetic judgement to produce coherent design
4.4. Inclusion of expertise of relevant specialists and consultants in developing the project design.
4.5. Investigation and integration of appropriate structural, construction, service and transport systems in the project design.
4.6. Investigation and integration of appropriate material selection for the project design.
4.7. Coordination and integration of appropriate environmental systems, including for thermal comfort, lighting and acoustics.
4.8. Analysis of schematic design in regard to cost planning and timeframe to comply with client and project requirements.
6.1. Identification and adoption of a strategy, program and process of documentation integrated through all project stages to enable project delivery.
6.2. Continuing coordination and integration of information and project material from relevant consultants, specialists and suppliers.
6.6. Identification and description within the project documentation of the type and scope of separate project trades and sub-contractors as required.
6.8. Project documentation is in accordance with, and appropriate to, the project contract and project procurement procedure.
LO6
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
6.1. Identification and adoption of a strategy, program and process of documentation integrated through all project stages to enable project delivery.
6.2. Continuing coordination and integration of information and project material from relevant consultants, specialists and suppliers.
6.3. Incorporation of the project requirements and objectives in accordance with Project Brief and approved Detailed Design.
6.4. Timely completion and communication of accurate and comprehensible documents that will include, as required, drawings, models, specifications, schedules and other relevant modes of information.
6.5. Nomination of quality and performance standards with regard to selected materials, finishes, fittings components and systems.
6.6. Identification and description within the project documentation of the type and scope of separate project trades and sub-contractors as required.
6.8. Project documentation is in accordance with, and appropriate to, the project contract and project procurement procedure.
LO7
National Standard of Competency for Architects - AACA
8.2. Recommendation regarding contractor selection and specifics of project contract are made to the client for their approval.
National Standard of Competency for Architects -
Competency code Taught, Practiced or Assessed Competency standard
1 T P A Design: Project briefing
1.1 T P A Preparation & endorsement of an agreement between client and Architect. This agreement will clearly communicate terms, services to be provided, and fees appropriate for the scale and type of project.
1.2 T P A Establishment, analysis and evaluation of client project requirements and objectives.
1.3 T P A Assessment of project budget and timeframe against project requirements and objectives.
1.4 T P A Identification of factors that may impact on client project requirements and objectives.
1.5 T P A Knowledge of different procurement processes available and evaluation of the impact these have on the project.
1.6 T P A Selection and presentation to clients and relevant stakeholders of procurement method for the project.
1.7 T P A Preparation of project brief for approval by client and relevant stakeholders.
2 T P A Design: Pre-Design
2.1 T P A Identification, analysis and integration of information relevant to siting of project.
2.2 T P A Application of principles controlling planning, development and design for the project site.
2.3 T P A Evaluation of factors influencing and impacting on project cost.
2.4 T P A Analysis of project brief in relation to clients objective budget and timeframe.
2.5 T P A Attainment of approval from client of project budget and timeframe.
2.6 T P A Preparation and analysis of project development options in response to project brief.
3 T P A Design: Conceptual Design
3.1 T P A Design response integrates the objectives of brief, user intent and built purpose.
3.2 T P A Application of creative imagination, aesthetic judgement and critical evaluation in formulating design options.
3.3 T P A Design response incorporates assessment of the physical location and relevant wider regional, contextual and environmental issues.
3.4 T P A Design response incorporates assessment of relevant legislation, codes and industry standards.
3.5 T P A Exploration and application of ordering, sequencing and modelling of three-dimensional form and spatial content.
3.6 T P A Assessment of the economic impact on the project of design strategies and options.
3.7 T P A Assessment and integration of construction systems and materials consistent with project brief.
3.8 T P A Application of manual and digital graphic techniques and modelling to describe three-dimensional form and spatial relationships.
4 T P A Design: Schematic Design
4.1 T P A Evaluation of design options in relation to project requirements.
4.2 T P A Evaluation of design options against values of physical, environmental and cultural contexts.
4.3 T P A Application of creative imagination aesthetic judgement to produce coherent design
4.4 T P A Inclusion of expertise of relevant specialists and consultants in developing the project design.
4.5 T P A Investigation and integration of appropriate structural, construction, service and transport systems in the project design.
4.6 T P A Investigation and integration of appropriate material selection for the project design.
4.7 T P A Coordination and integration of appropriate environmental systems, including for thermal comfort, lighting and acoustics.
4.8 T P A Analysis of schematic design in regard to cost planning and timeframe to comply with client and project requirements.
4.9 T P A Obtain approval for the design from client and and/or relevant stakeholders.
5 T P A Documentation: Detailed Design
5.1 T P A Application of creative imagination and aesthetic judgement in producing a resolved project design in regard to site planning, physical composition and spatial planning as appropriate to the project brief.
5.2 T P A Resolution of project design addressing all building occupancy and functional aspects including spatial requirements and relationships and circulation aspects.
5.3 T P A Evaluation and integration of regulatory requirements.
5.5 T P A Integration of materials and components based upon an understanding of their physical properties.
5.6 T P A Integration of relevant technical services, environmental and transportation systems.
5.7 T P A Resolution of project design to address budget and time constraints.
5.8 T P A Presentation of detailed design to facilitate relevant client and stakeholder approvals.
6 T P A Documentation: Documentation
6.1 T P A Identification and adoption of a strategy, program and process of documentation integrated through all project stages to enable project delivery.
6.2 T P A Continuing coordination and integration of information and project material from relevant consultants, specialists and suppliers.
6.3 T P A Incorporation of the project requirements and objectives in accordance with Project Brief and approved Detailed Design.
6.4 T P A Timely completion and communication of accurate and comprehensible documents that will include, as required, drawings, models, specifications, schedules and other relevant modes of information.
6.5 T P A Nomination of quality and performance standards with regard to selected materials, finishes, fittings components and systems.
6.6 T P A Identification and description within the project documentation of the type and scope of separate project trades and sub-contractors as required.
6.7 T P A Establishment of quality assurance systems to ensure consistency and completeness of project documentation in accordance with the requirement for the project brief, project timeframe and project budget.
6.8 T P A Project documentation is in accordance with, and appropriate to, the project contract and project procurement procedure.

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

No changes have been made since this unit was last offered

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