Students are to select a topic from the suggested list (provided separately) or develop their own topic. Topics are to be submitted to the instructor for approval, subject to the schedule provided. Each student will have a unique topic.
The main purpose of the topical paper is to expand on a subject included in the course lectures. Power System Management covers a broad array of subjects regarding the power system, including both technical and business topics. The topical paper provides the opportunity for the student to explore an area of interest in further detail. The paper can provide additional technical, business or historical content; or it can develop an argument for certain technology, business or strategic approaches. Alternatively, it can explore specific operational or business challenges. The student has the latitude to develop the paper with any of these concepts.
The paper shall be 8-10 pages, double spaced, excluding cover page and reference page(s).
Format requirements for the paper:
1. Cover page (not included in the page count), including the title, your name and date.
2. Introduction – brief statement about the topic and summary of what the paper covers. This should be a paragraph.
3. Main body – the details of your topic, including sufficient detail that “goes beyond” the related lectures and is well referenced. Provide good details if a new technology is explored. Offer a balance between cost, operations and environmental impact if applicable.
4. Conclusion – summarizing your work, including any concluding arguments you have, if you have selected a topic that involves a debate.
5. Reference page (not included in the page count) - at least three references, preferably more.
Grading
1. The maximum score is 25 points.
2. Length is 8-10 pages, excluding cover page and reference page. Excessive repetition and large margins (lots of white space) will be discounted.
3. Grammar, spelling, punctuation and sentence structure are important. The paper should be logical, clear and understandable. While this is not a writing course, good writing will serve you well in your Engineering career. The paper should be logical, clear and understandable. If there are numerous grammar or writing errors, the grade will be discounted. Proofread your work. Utilize the University of Toledo Writing Center and other sources available on Blackboard.
4. Technical errors will be discounted.
5. Cite all references, using at least three different sources. Do not use any non-public information. The APA format for citations is recommended.
6. The report is to be in your own words. Quotes can be used but use them minimally. Be sure your work contains no plagiarism. It is your responsibility to know what plagiarism is. Consult the APA manual if necessary. The instructor may use the University’s system for checking for plagiarism.
Michelle_Michy
20200724203658eecs44605460_toppaper_req_7.11.20_1__3_1.docx
