Assessment of the BMI paper

(For further information on the paper itself, see the Handbook)

Before beginning the Research Paper Business Analytics, it is essential that students know exactly what is expected of them. Your tutor/supervisor will wish to discuss the following points before you start.

In most cases, the paper will require a desk study of the available resources, perhaps supplemented by one or more interviews. The inclusion of actual facts and figures from practice is not a firm requirement, but will enhance the quality of your work (and will make the writing process more interesting). Your report must be clear and 'to the point'. There should be a logical structure and you should not attempt to cover too many topics at once. All models and formulas should be explained and substantiated.

Any students wishing to practice their final presentation, or seeking further information about presentation techniques, should contact the Internship Office.

The supervisor will grade your paper based on an assessment of:

• the working method (process)
• the written report
• the verbal presentation.

The assessment of production methods (the 'process') will consider:

• the extent to which the student has demonstrated independence, initiative and results focus
• the schedule: has the student observed the production timetable and deadlines?

The availability of resources will be taken into account (personal input in relation to complexity of subject matter).

The criteria for the written report are:

• There should be a clear relationship between the practical work and the academic components of the programme (mathematics and/or computer science). The report should therefore present both the practical findings and their foundation in theory.
• The paper should be adequately 'scientific'. Findings and conclusions should be objective and reproducible, with all choices substantiated. Models and formulas must be stated and fully worked through: the student must demonstrate the validity of the results in detail.
• The paper should include a clear problem statement (the 'terms of reference') and an analysis. The assessor will then take in account the methodology applied in addressing the problem, the structure, the delineation of the problem (which must not be too broad), the definitions applied, the 'readability' (with regard for the intended readership), and the formulation of conclusions and recommendations (personal input).
• The assessment will also consider the use of standard reporting techniques (language and style, presentation, etc.).

The criteria for the assessment of the verbal presentation include:

Command of the topic: is the student clearly familiar with the essence of the subject?
Ability to answer questions.
Presentation style and techniques (manner, interaction, vocal projection), including the use of audio-visual aids (preferably a 'beamer').