GR 12 Capstone Proj. Module 1
GR 12 Capstone Proj. Module 1
GR 12 Capstone Proj. Module 1
The capstone project is usually the final assignment and plays a vital role
in preparing students for the world of work thanks to its practical
applications and ability to help hone students' professional knowledge and
skills.
What type of research is a capstone
project?
The Capstone Project is a two-semester process in which students
pursue independent research on a question or problem of their choice, engage
with the scholarly debates in the relevant disciplines, and - with the guidance of a
faculty mentor - produce a substantial paper that reflects a deep understanding of
the topic.
How many pages is a capstone project?
Generally a capstone paper is about 20-25 pages long, but no longer than 45
pages. You should submit a draft to your Capstone advisor first, before editing and
submitting the finished project.
How Long Does a Capstone Project Usually
Take to Complete?
This will vary from program to program and can be as few as 10 weeks to as
many as two semesters depending on the requirements of the program. It is most
common for graduate programs to require a capstone project course that lasts for
one semester.
What are the parts of a capstone project?
As scientists conduct their research, they make observations and collect data. The
observations and data often lead them to ask why something is the way it is.
Scientists pursue answers to these questions in order to continue with their research.
Once scientists have a good question to investigate, they begin to think of ways to
answer it.
2. Make Predictions
Based on their research and observations, scientists will often come up with a
hypothesis. A hypothesis is a possible answer to a question. It is based on: their own
observations, existing theories, and information they gather from other sources.
Scientists use their hypothesis to make a prediction, a testable statement that
describes what they think the outcome of an investigation will be.
3. Gather Data
Evidence is needed to test the prediction. There are several strategies for collecting
evidence, or data. Scientists can gather their data by observing the natural world,
performing an experiment in a laboratory, or by running a model. Scientists decide
what strategy to use, often combining strategies. Then they plan a procedure and
gather their data. They make sure the procedure can be repeated, so that other
scientists can evaluate their findings.
4. Analyze the Data
Scientists organize their data in tables, graphs, or diagrams. If possible, they include
relevant data from other sources. They look for patterns that show connections
between important variables in the hypothesis they are testing.
5. Draw Conclusions
Based on whether or not their prediction came true, scientists can then decide whether
the evidence clearly supports or does not support the hypothesis. If the results are not
clear, they must rethink their procedure. If the results are clear, scientists write up
their findings and results to share with others. The conclusions they draw usually
lead to new questions to pursue.