Course Purpose
This course fulfills the research requirement for all MSc programmes in the School of Science and Technology at the Open University of Kenya. It culminates in the submission and defense of an MSc thesis.
The course allows you to independently study and research under the guidance of a supervisor on a designated topic, and to develop skills and competencies in designing and authoring applications/artefacts that use scientific techniques to solve real‑world problems.
Course Learning Outcomes
ELO1: Identify real‑world problems that can be solved using artificial intelligence.
ELO2: Conceptualize AI solutions for real‑world problems.
ELO3: Design AI tools for real‑world problems.
ELO4: Document results from analysis, development, and implementation of AI tools.
Course Content
How to Use This Guide
- This guide is built for self-paced study, each module provides a friendly overview, clear learning outcomes, resources, tasks, and graded activities.
- Work through the modules in sequence, use the pacing plan and checklists to manage your time and track your progress.
- Save your reflections in a personal journal (digital or handwritten), these reflections will support your viva preparation and final thesis write-up.
- Supervisor check-ins are meant for guidance and accountability, schedule them according to your context and key milestones.
Course Credits & Hours
Credits: 16
Contact Hours: 240
MSc Thesis Modules Guide
Welcome to the MSc Thesis course! This guide will walk you through ten modules, each designed to help you plan, execute, and successfully write your Master’s thesis. Every module follows a consistent format with clear sections so you know exactly how to proceed:
- Start Here: An introduction to the module’s goals and how to begin.
- Why This Matters: Why the module’s content is important for your research journey.
- What You Will Do: Key outcomes and tasks you will accomplish by the end of the module.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Pitfalls students often encounter – so you can sidestep them.
- Activities: Step-by-step exercises, checklists, or tasks to apply what you learn.
- Assignment (if applicable): The graded component, including what to submit and how it will be evaluated.
- Self-Reflection: A quick self-check or question to reflect on your progress.
- What’s Next: A preview of the following module, to see how everything connects.
Use this guide in a learner-centered way: read actively, take notes, and complete the activities. Each module is action-oriented – speaking directly to you as the researcher – and breaks down the thesis process into manageable steps. Let’s get started!