40 Credit Module.
Deadline: 15th January 2015
"Doing Your Research Project" by Juditch Bell - 371.3 in library
- 6-9,000 word written element and practical work.
- Research project to a question, which you will then produce a practical piece answering said question.
- Minimum 2.5 hours tutorial time. Come prepared to your tutorials with research, questions, etc.
- Try to have a substantial draft submitted by Christmas holidays.
Planning The Project
- Write down all the questions that you want to investigate.
- Consider each question on their own merits and focus on two (primary and secondary questions).
- Write a 'first thoughts' sheet for primary and secondary questions
- preconceptions
- ideas for investigations
- What is the purpose of the study? Is your question researchable? Are your ideas realistic?
- Working title (can be subtly changed).
- Constantly refer back to your title.
- Are you answering the title?
- Make sure that your title is a question to answer.
Project Outline
- Consider timing. Deadline = 15 weeks!!
- Consider holidays / work / life.
- Think about what needs researching.
- Allocate timings for research areas.
- Allow generous time for reading and writing up.
- Factor in tutorials.
- Draw up a project outline.
Literature Search
- Reading takes more time than you think!
- How much can you actually read in 100 hours?
- Start by trying to find key texts on your chosen topic.
- Have a look on Google Scholar.
- Focus your reading and plan your time.
- Find secondary sources based on key texts.
- Use journals (www.jstor.org).
Referencing
- Start compiling a bibliography at the beginning of the project.
- Reference as you go along.
- Include: Name, forename, date, place, publisher, page.
Questionnaires
- Is a questionnaire the best way of investigating your topic?
- If so, begin to word questions and discuss with supervisor.
- Avoid ambiguity, imprecision or assumption.
- Avoid double, leading, presuming or offensive questions.
Interviews
- Is an interview relevant?
- If so, begin to word questions for discussions with supervisor.
Critical Diaries / Reflective Logs
- Keep updating and reflecting on your research.
- Make sure the purpose is clear.
DON'T PROCRASTINATE!!!!
