ASSIGNMENT FINAL REPORT

Qualification Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing

Unit number and title Unit 19: Computing Research Project (Pearson Set)

Submission date 12/12/2024 Date Received 1st Submission 12/12/2024

Re-submission Date Date Received 2nd Submission

Student Name Tran Kim Thanh Student ID BS00461

Class SE06101 Assessor name Nguyen Van Quang

Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a particular form of cheating. Plagiarism must be avoided at all costs and students who break the rules, however innocently,
may be penalised. It is your responsibility to ensure that you understand correct referencing practices. As a university level student, you
are expected to use appropriate references throughout and keep carefully detailed notes of all your sources of materials for material you
have used in your work, including any material downloaded from the Internet. Please consult the relevant unit lecturer or your course tutor
if you need any further advice.

Student Declaration
I certify that the assignment submission is entirely my own work and I fully understand the consequences of plagiarism. I declare that the
work submitted for assessment has been carried out without assistance other than that which is acceptable according to the rules of the
specification. I certify I have clearly referenced any sources and any artificial intelligence (AI) tools used in the work. I understand that
making a false declaration is a form of malpractice.
 Student’s signature Thanh

Grading grid

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 M1 M2 M3 M4 D1 D2 D3
 ASSIGNMENT GROUP WORK
Qualification Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing

Unit number and title Unit 19: Computing Research Project (Pearson Set)

Submission date 12/12/2024 Date Received 1st submission 12/12/2024

Re-submission Date Date Received 2nd

submission

Group number: Student names & codes Final scores Signatures

Truong Pham Anh Tuan BS00563 Tuan

Tran Kim Thanh BS00461 Thanh

Class SE06101 Assessor name Nguyen Van Quang

Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a particular form of cheating. Plagiarism must be avoided at all costs and students who break the rules, however innocently, may be
penalised.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you understand correct referencing practices. As a university level student, you are expected to use appropriate

references throughout and keep carefully detailed notes of all your sources of materials for material you have used in your work, including any material
downloaded from the Internet. Please consult the relevant unit lecturer or your course tutor if you need any further advice.

Student Declaration
I certify that the assignment submission is entirely my own work and I fully understand the consequences of plagiarism. I declare that the work submitted
for assessment has been carried out without assistance other than that which is acceptable according to the rules of the specification. I certify I have clearly
referenced any sources and any artificial intelligence (AI) tools used in the work. I understand that making a false declaration is a form of malpractice.
OBSERVATION RECORD
Student Tran Kim Thanh

Description of activity undertaken

Database design (product data).

Chatbot design and integration.

Set up backend.

Assessment & grading criteria

Project contribution percentage: 50%

How the activity meets the requirements of the criteria

Student Thanh Date: 12/12/2024

signature:

Assessor Date:
signature:

Assessor Nguyen Van Quang

name:
 Summative Feedback:  Resubmission Feedback:

Grade: Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier’s Comments:

Signature & Date:

Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
A. Assignment Part 1 ................................................................................................................................................ 9
P2. Examine appropriate research methods and approaches to primary and secondary research ............................. 9
P3. Conduct primary and secondary research using appropriate methods for a computing research project that
consider costs, access and ethical issues................................................................................................................. 15
P4. Apply appropriate analytical tools, analyse research findings and data ............................................................. 31
P5 Communicate research outcomes in an appropriate manner for the intended audience .................................... 46
P6 Reflect on the effectiveness of research methods applied for meeting objectives of the computing research
project ................................................................................................................................................................... 51
P7. Consider alternative research methodologies and lessons learnt in view of the outcomes ................................ 53
Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................................. 68
References ................................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed the landscape of personalized systems by tailoring experiences,
services, and products to individual users. By analysing vast amounts of data and utilizing advanced
algorithms, AI enables systems to learn from user interactions and adapt over time, enhancing user
satisfaction.

AI-driven personalized systems can be found in applications like recommendation engines for streaming
services, targeted marketing in e-commerce, and adaptive learning platforms. These systems analyse user
behaviour and preferences to deliver tailored content, improving customer engagement and retention.

The integration of AI also includes techniques like predictive analytics and natural language processing,
which allow for more intuitive and seamless interactions. Ultimately, AI in personalized systems offers a
path toward creating meaningful user experiences that are optimized for individual needs, paving the way
for future advancements in user engagement.

A. Assignment Part 1

P2. Examine appropriate research methods and approaches to primary and secondary research.
1. Research

a) Primary research

Definition: Primary research is a technique of gathering original data straight from sources in order to
answer particular research questions or goals is known as primary research. Instead of depending on
preexisting data or secondary sources, this kind of study collects fresh information through a variety of
techniques, including surveys, interviews, experiments, and observations. Primary research is useful because
it offers personal perspectives that are customized for the particular study setting, allowing researchers to
get precise and pertinent data that is directly related to their area of interest. (Smith, 2020)
Advantages and Disadvantages of Primary research.
Advantages of Primary Research Disadvantages of Primary Research

Specificity: Primary research is tailored to Cost: Conducting primary research can be

the specific needs of the researcher, expensive, requiring resources for tools,
allowing for focused data collection that materials, participant recruitment, and data
addresses particular questions or analysis.
hypotheses.
Time-Consuming: The process of designing,
Original Data: Since the data is collected conducting, and analysing primary research
firsthand, it is original and unique, often can take considerable time, delaying the
providing more accurate and relevant research outcomes.
insights than secondary data.
Limited Sample Size: Depending on
Control Over Data Collection: resources and access, researchers may have a
Researchers can control the smaller sample size, which can limit the
generalizability of the findings.
methodology, sample size, and conditions
under which data is collected, ensuring that Skill Requirement: Primary research often
the research design aligns with their requires specialized skills in research design,
objectives. data collection methods, and statistical
analysis, which may necessitate training or
hiring experts.

b) Secondary research

Definition: Secondary research is the process of gathering and examining data that has previously been
obtained by research others. Reviewing and combining data from a variety of sources, including books,
scholarly journals, articles, reports, and databases, is part of this kind of study. Secondary research employs
data that has already been published to make inferences, spot trends, or obtain understanding of a certain
subject, in contrast to primary research, which concentrates on producing new data through firsthand
examination.

secondary research can be exploratory or explanatory, it is primarily focused on explaining the cause-and
effect relationships of well-defined problems. (Smith, 2020)
 Advantages of Secondary Research Disadvantages of Secondary Research

Cost-Effective: Secondary research is Lack of Specificity: The data collected may

generally less expensive than primary not be tailored to the specific needs of the
research since it relies on data that has research project, which can limit its relevance.
already been collected and published.
Time-Saving: Researchers can access Potential Outdated Information: Secondary
existing information quickly, allowing data may not reflect the current situation or
them to gather insights without the trends, especially if it has not been updated
lengthy process of data collection. Wide recently.
Range of Data: Secondary research Quality and Reliability Issues: The accuracy
provides access to a broad spectrum of of secondary research depends on the
information from various sources, reliability of the original sources. If the original
enabling a more data is flawed, the conclusions drawn can also
comprehensive understanding of the be misleading.
topic. Limited Control: Researchers have no control
over how the data was collected, which may
Established Data: The data used in
introduce biases or inconsistencies.
secondary research has often been peer
reviewed or validated, which can lend
credibility to the findings.

2. Methods

a) Qualitative Research method: Qualitative research focuses on exploring phenomena in-

depth to understand experiences, meanings, and perspectives. This type of research often deals
with non-numerical data, such as interviews, focus groups, ethnographic studies, and
observations. It emphasizes understanding the complexity of human behaviour and the context
in which it occurs.
 Advantages and Disadvantages of Qualitative research

Advantages of Qualitative Research Disadvantages of Qualitative Research

Rich, Detailed Data: Qualitative research Subjectivity and Bias: The researcher's
provides in-depth insights into participants' own biases, interpretations, or
thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, capturing preconceptions can influence data collection
the complexity of human experiences. and analysis, potentially affecting the
validity of the findings.
Contextual Understanding: This method
allows researchers to explore phenomena in

their natural context, making findings more Limited Generalizability: Because qualitative
relevant and realistic. research often involves small, non-random
samples, the findings may not be generalizable
Flexibility: The flexible and open-ended nature
to the larger population.
of qualitative research allows researchers to
adjust their methods as new themes or insights Time-Consuming: Qualitative research
emerge during the study. methods, such as interviews and observations,
can be time-intensive to conduct and analyse,
requiring significant effort to process large
volumes of data.

c) Quantitative Research method Quantitative Research Methods

• Surveys and Questionnaires: Collect numerical data through structured questions that can be
analysed statistically.
• Experiments: Involve manipulating variables to observe their effect on other variables under
controlled conditions.
• Longitudinal Studies: Track the same group of participants over an extended period to observe
changes or trends.
• Correlational Studies: Examine the relationship between two or more variables without
manipulating them.
• Statistical Analysis: Use tools like regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and descriptive statistics
to analyse the data. (Johnson, 2023)
 Advantages and Disadvantages of Quantitative research

Advantages of Quantitative Research Disadvantages of Quantitative Research

Objectivity: Quantitative research is based Lack of Depth: Quantitative research

on numerical data and statistical analysis, may not provide a deep understanding of
which minimizes researcher bias and the underlying reasons or motivations
subjectivity. behind behaviour or attitudes.

Generalizability: Large, random samples Limited Flexibility: Pre-structured tools

allow the findings to be generalized to a like surveys or questionnaires may not
broader population. capture all the nuances of the research
topic.
Replicability: Quantitative studies can be
replicated with different samples or in Context Ignorance: Quantitative
different contexts, enhancing the reliability methods often focus on variables in
of the results.

Precision and Accuracy: Quantitative methods isolation, neglecting the broader context in
can provide precise, reliable measurements which they occur.
that can lead to highly specific conclusions.
Over-Simplification: Reducing complex
phenomena to numerical data may
oversimplify the complexities of human
behaviour.

d) Scientific method

The scientific method is a systematic approach to research that involves observing phenomena,
formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analysing data to draw conclusions. It is
designed to minimize bias and ensure objective, reliable results. The process typically follows
these steps:

1. Observation: Identifying a phenomenon or problem.

2. Hypothesis: Formulating a testable explanation or prediction.

3. Experimentation: Testing the hypothesis through controlled experiments or data collection.

4. Analysis: Analysing the data to determine whether it supports or refutes the hypothesis.

5. Conclusion: Drawing conclusions based on the results of the analysis and determining whether the
hypothesis is valid.
 6. Replication: Repeating experiments to verify the results. (Johnson, 2023)

Advantages and Disadvantages of Scientific Method

Advantages of Scientific Method Disadvantages of Scientific Method

Objectivity: The scientific method minimizes bias Limited by Current Knowledge: The
by relying on empirical evidence and systematic scientific method is based on existing
testing. knowledge and frameworks, which may
limit the scope of inquiry or the
Replicability: Experiments and procedures can be interpretation of results.
repeated and verified by other researchers, which
helps validate the results. Ethical Constraints: In some cases,
experiments may involve ethical dilemmas
Consistency: By following a structured approach, (e.g., medical trials), limiting the range of
the scientific method ensures consistent and
experiments that can be conducted.
reproducible results.
Reductionism: The scientific method often
breaks complex phenomena into

Accuracy and Precision: The method allows for smaller, more manageable components,
precise measurement and rigorous analysis, leading which may overlook the
to reliable conclusions. interconnectedness or complexity of real-
world systems.

3. Choosing the right research methods.

After reviewing the aforementioned research methods, I must now select the best one for my own
research paper. Based on my own evaluations, I have determined the following research methodologies:
Method of Quantitative Research: When precise and highly generalizable research is needed, quantitative
approaches are the best option. This approach aids in objectively measuring variables and testing
particular hypotheses by gathering and evaluating numerical data. When researchers need to compare
groups of subjects, examine causal linkages, or search for common patterns in a big sample, they
frequently employ quantitative research.

Qualitative Research Method: Qualitative research is the best option for complicated subjects that call for
a thorough examination of people's opinions, feelings, and experiences. In order to comprehend the
nature of social phenomena, this approach relies on gathering non-numerical data, such as text, photos,
or audio. It gives researchers greater freedom to modify their inquiries and methodologies, leading to the
discovery of fresh viewpoints that quantitative methods might overlook.

Secondary Research: When time and resources are scarce or primary data is already available, secondary
research is the best option. This approach depends on recycling data that has already been gathered, such
as surveys, statistics, or historical reports. Although it saves time and money, researchers must be careful
to assess the trustworthiness and appropriateness of the data to verify that the study still fits the original
objectives.

P3. Conduct primary and secondary research using appropriate methods for a computing research
project that consider costs, access and ethical issues
1. Primary Research Methods

Primary research involves gathering original data directly from sources through various methods. These
methods are tailored to your specific research needs, particularly user preferences and system functionality
in the context of a personalized learning system.

a. Surveys and Questionnaires

• Purpose: Gather quantitative and qualitative data from potential users (students, teachers, or
administrators) about their needs, preferences, and attitudes toward personalized learning.

• Method: Create an online survey using tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey. Focus on
questions that address:

o Current challenges in personalized learning (e.g., lack of customization, engagement issues).

o Preferred features in a personalized learning system (e.g., adaptive content, real-time

feedback).

o Opinions on data privacy and how they would like their data to be used.

• Considerations:

o Costs: Low (free tools available).

o Access: Ensure the survey is accessible to your target users (students, teachers, etc.) via
email or social media.

o Ethical Issues: Informed consent, anonymization of responses, and clear data privacy
policies.

b. Interviews
• Purpose: Conduct semi-structured interviews with users, educators, or experts in personalized
learning.

• Method: Prepare a list of open-ended questions and use video conferencing tools (Zoom, Google
Meet) or in-person interviews. Focus on understanding user experiences, expectations, and
challenges with personalized learning systems.

• Considerations:

o Costs: Low to moderate (if interviews are done online, costs are minimal).
 o Access: Ensure you have access to educators, students, or other relevant stakeholders for
interviews. o Ethical Issues: Informed consent, confidentiality of responses, and permission
to record interviews.

c. Usability Testing

• Purpose: Test a prototype or early version of your personalized learning system to gather feedback
on usability, effectiveness, and user engagement.

• Method: Create a prototype and ask users to perform specific tasks (e.g., navigating the system,
completing assignments). Observe their interactions and ask follow-up questions.

• Considerations:

o Costs: Moderate to high (if developing a working prototype requires resources). o

Access: Ensure access to a group of users who represent your target demographic.

o Ethical Issues: Informed consent, minimizing harm by ensuring users' data is protected
during testing.

d. Focus Groups

• Purpose: Discuss user needs and preferences in-depth through group discussions. This method
allows you to observe group dynamics and obtain diverse viewpoints.

• Method: Organize a group of 4-8 participants (students, educators, etc.) to discuss their experiences
and expectations of personalized learning systems.

• Considerations:

o Costs: Low to moderate (cost of organizing and compensating participants). o

Access: Ensure you have access to a diverse group of people to avoid bias in feedback.

o Ethical Issues: Informed consent and confidentiality.

2. Secondary Research (Documents Review)

Secondary research involves gathering data from existing sources like academic papers, industry reports,
and market research. This type of research helps you build a foundation of existing knowledge and find
proven strategies for designing your system.

1. Lucking, R., Holmes, W., Griffiths, M., & Forcier, L. B. (2016). "Intelligence Unleashed: An Argument for
AI in Education."
Goal and Objectives of Research:
  To explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming education systems.
 To advocate for integrating AI technologies to enhance personalized learning and support educators.
Methods Used:
 A review of existing AI applications in education, focusing on practical examples and their impacts.
 Analysis of potential benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations in implementing AI in learning
systems.
Key Results of the Research:
 AI can provide personalized learning paths tailored to individual needs, improving engagement and
outcomes.
 It highlights the importance of collaboration between AI systems and human educators.
 Challenges such as data privacy and ethical concerns must be addressed.

2. Li, F. W. B., Lau, R. W. H., & Dharmendran, P. (2009). "A Three-Tier Profiling Framework for Adaptive E-
Learning."
Goal and Objectives of Research:
 To develop a framework for adaptive e-learning systems that adjusts content based on learner
profiles.
 To enhance learning experiences by creating personalized education environments.
Methods Used:
 Proposal of a three-tier profiling framework, including learner profiles, domain knowledge models,
and pedagogical strategies.
 Testing the framework using a prototype system and evaluating its adaptability.
Key Results of the Research:
 The framework effectively adapts content to learners' needs, improving knowledge retention and
satisfaction.
 The integration of domain-specific knowledge with learner profiles enhances personalization.
 Recommendations for implementing similar systems in broader educational contexts.
3. Khalil, M., & Ebner, M. (2016). "Using Electronic Learning Systems in Higher Education: Learning
Analytics and Personalized Learning."
Goal and Objectives of Research:
 To investigate the role of learning analytics in improving personalized learning experiences in higher
education.
 To evaluate how data-driven insights can support students and instructors.
Methods Used:
 Case studies of e-learning systems incorporating learning analytics.
 Data analysis to identify patterns in student behaviour and learning outcomes.
Key Results of the Research:
 Learning analytics provide actionable insights into student performance, enabling timely
interventions.
 Personalized feedback and adaptive recommendations enhance student engagement and
outcomes.
 Institutional support and training are critical for successful implementation.

4. Brusilovsky, P., & Millán, E. (2007). "User Models for Adaptive Hypermedia and Adaptive Educational
Systems."
Goal and Objectives of Research:
 To explore the development and use of user models in adaptive educational systems.
 To understand how these models can support personalized learning experiences.
Methods Used:
 Review of existing adaptive hypermedia systems and their user modelling techniques.
 Development of taxonomy for user models in adaptive educational contexts.
Key Results of the Research:
 User models enable systems to tailor content, navigation, and interaction to individual learners.
 The combination of explicit and implicit data collection methods enhances model accuracy.
 The study highlights the need for ongoing refinement of models to ensure effectiveness.
5. Pope Nici, S. A. D., & Kerr, S. (2017). "Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Teaching and
Learning in Higher Education."
Goal and Objectives of Research:
 To examine the transformative potential of AI in teaching and learning within higher education.
 To identify challenges and opportunities associated with AI integration.
Methods Used:
 Literature review of existing studies and case examples of AI applications in education.
 Discussion of pedagogical implications and future research directions.
Key Results of the Research:
  AI enhances learning experiences through personalization and automation of routine tasks.
 Ethical and pedagogical challenges, such as data privacy and dependency on AI, need careful
consideration.
 AI fosters a shift toward student-cantered learning but requires complementary human oversight.

3. Considerations: Costs, Access, and Ethical Issues

a. Costs

• Primary Research: Surveys and questionnaires are cost-effective, but prototyping and usability
testing may require significant resources. If you're developing a working prototype, the
development cost can be high.

• Secondary Research: Literature reviews and online forums are generally free, but accessing industry
reports or specialized academic articles may require a subscription or institutional access. b. Access

• Primary Research: Ensure you have access to a diverse user group. Online tools like Google Forms
and video conferencing tools (Zoom) make access easier. However, ensure your sample represents
the broader target demographic.

• Secondary Research: Access to academic papers and industry reports may require subscriptions or
institutional access. Some reports may be behind paywalls, but you can often find open-access
papers or summaries on academic platforms.

c. Ethical Issues

• Informed Consent: Always seek permission from participants, whether for surveys, interviews, or
usability testing. Make sure they understand how their data will be used.

• Privacy: Protect personal data, especially when handling sensitive information about students or
educators. Follow GDPR or other relevant data protection laws.

• Bias and Representation: Ensure your research methods and sample populations are representative
of the broader user base to avoid bias in findings.
1. Survey form

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5
 Figure 6

2. Interview form
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10
 Figure 11

Figure 12

P4. Apply appropriate analytical tools, analyse research findings and data
Analysing data from interview
Figure 13

Figure 14
Figure 15

Figure 16
 Figure 17

Figure 18

 The majority of respondents prefer visual and auditory learning styles, emphasizing the importance of
interactive and media-rich content. A significant portion also Favors text-based learning, while kinaesthetic
learning is the least popular. These preferences suggest that educational tools or AI systems should focus
on providing visual aids, audio resources, and written materials to meet diverse learning needs.
 Figure 19

Results:

1. Less than 5 hours (36.7%):

o A significant portion of respondents spend minimal time on self-study, indicating potential barriers
like a lack of time or motivation.

2. 5–10 hours (30%):

o Close to a third dedicate moderate effort to self-study each week.

3. 10–15 hours (20%):

o A smaller group invests more substantial time in learning outside of structured settings.

4. More than 15 hours (13.3%):

o The fewest respondents are highly committed to extensive self-study, showcasing dedication to
learning.

 The majority of respondents dedicate 5–10 hours or less per week to self-study, while a smaller group
invests more time. This suggests that learning solutions should be efficient and tailored to fit into limited
schedules. AI tools could support this by providing personalized, time-efficient resources that maximize
learning in shorter periods.