Lesson 9.3: Finalising and Submitting the Project

Introduction

In this lesson, students will learn about the final steps required to complete and submit a project successfully. Completing a project is an iterative process that includes drafting, revising, and polishing your work before submission. This lesson will guide students through important aspects such as final checks on structure, formatting, references, and word count. Furthermore, we will discuss how to prepare the artefact and its report for submission, ensuring that everything is in order to meet the submission requirements and deadlines. By the end of this lesson, students will feel confident and prepared to finalize and submit their project, including submitting the supervision log and process portfolio.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the final checklist for structure, references, formatting, and word count.
• Learn how to prepare an artefact and its report together for submission.
• Conduct final integrity and reference checks before handing in.
• Know how to meet submission requirements and deadlines.
• Understand the process of submitting the supervision log and process portfolio alongside the project.

The Final Checklist

Before submitting your project, it is essential to conduct a thorough review of your work. This checklist should focus on five critical areas: structure, references, formatting, word count, and integrity. Each of these components ensures that your project meets the academic standards expected in your final submission.

Structure

The structure of your project is the backbone of your presentation. A well-structured project should include:

1. Title Page: Clearly state the title of your project along with your name, course, and date of submission.
2. Table of Contents: Include a list of sections and page numbers for easy navigation.
3. Introduction: Provide an overview of the project, including objectives and the significance of the research.
4. Main Body: Organize content logically with clear headings and subheadings. Each section should build on the previous one, guiding the reader through your narrative.
5. Conclusion: Summarize key findings and their implications. This section should tie back to the objectives stated in the introduction and provide closure to your project.
6. References: All sources used should be cited appropriately in a reference list. Ensure that you follow the citation style specified by your course (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Example Structure

Here’s a simplified example structure for a project:

• Title Page
• Table of Contents
• Introduction
• Methods
• Results
• Discussion
• Conclusions
• References
• Appendices

References

References are crucial for supporting your arguments and giving credit to the original authors of the materials you used. A complete reference list at the end of your project should correspond to in-text citations. Ensure the following:

• Each source in the reference list must match an in-text citation.
• Follow the specific formatting style required by your academic institution.
• Double-check for the accuracy of each citation to ensure no errors.

Worked Example: APA Referencing

Suppose you used the following book in your research:

• Author: John Smith
• Title: Understanding Research Practices
• Year: 2020
• Publisher: Academic Press

In-text citation: (Smith, 2020)

Complete reference list entry in APA style:

Smith, J. (2020). Understanding research practices. Academic Press.

Formatting

Formatting is not merely about aesthetics; it ensures consistency and professionalism. Key aspects to focus on include:

• Font Style and Size: Common choices include Times New Roman or Arial in 12-point size.
• Margins: Typically, standard margins (1 inch) should be used.
• Line Spacing: Use double spacing throughout the document.
• Page Numbers: Include page numbers in the header or footer.

Word Count

Adhere to the specified word count limits in your submission guidelines. This not only meets the project requirements but also demonstrates your ability to express ideas succinctly. Count the words in your document using your word processor’s tools. If you are over the limit, identify sections that may be condensed or refined without losing core messages.

Integrity and Reference Checks

Completing your project means ensuring that all elements uphold academic integrity. This encompasses:

• Plagiarism Checks: Use plagiarism detection software to confirm originality.
• Completeness: Ensure that every component of your project is complete and accounted for.
• Final Edit: Thoroughly proofread your work for grammar, punctuation, and clarity.

Preparing Artefacts and Reports

Once written, check your artefacts and their corresponding reports. Artefacts can include digital presentations, models, or any physical representative of your work. The report should detail the objectives of the artefact, methodology used, findings, and implications. Here’s how to prepare them together:

Combining Artefact and Report

• Ensure Cohesion: The report should clearly explain how the artefact relates to the project’s objectives. Provide context for the artefact in the written section.
• Quality Assurance: Review both the artefact and report together for any inaccuracies or omissions.
• Physical Packaging: If submitting a physical artefact, make sure it is presented properly (e.g., securely packaged).

Example: A Digital Model

Consider you created a digital model of a water filtration system. Your report should include:

• An introduction to why the model is relevant.
• A detailed methodology describing the software used.
• An analysis of how the model serves its intended purpose.

Submission Process

Prepare for submission by ensuring you have work that meets all guidelines and quality standards:

• Double-Check Requirements: Review submission guidelines provided to you. Make sure you have included everything needed, such as your supervision log and process portfolio.
• Record Submission: Keep a record of when and how you submitted your project.

Conclusion

As students approaches the final stages of project submission, it is critical to pay close attention to structure, formatting, integrity, and adherence to guidelines. Each of these components contributes to the overall quality of your project. Diligent final checks will greatly reduce the risk of errors and enhance the clarity and professionalism of your work. Finally, remember that effective presentation—whether written or oral—is key in successfully defending your project and communicating your findings.

Study Notes

• Always follow the checklist: structure, references, formatting, word count.
• Merge artefacts and reports into cohesive submissions.
• Conduct integrity checks using plagiarism detection tools.
• Ensure to include supervision logs and process portfolios with your submission.
• Clear communication is crucial during presentations and project defenses.