Bell, Bryman, and Harley: Research Project Guide

Table of Contents

1. Preparing yourself to do research
   1. What is involved in a small-scale research project or dissertation?
   2. Start thinking about your research early
   3. Preliminary literature review/discussions to get research ideas
   4. Get to know what is expected of you by your institution
   5. Using your supervisor
   6. Managing time and resources
   7. Research checklist
2. What do I want to research exactly?
3. The research process
4. Writing up your research report

What is involved in a small-scale research project or dissertation?

Chapter 4

- Get to know what is expected of you by your institution

- Start thinking about your research early

- Asking research questions

- Use your supervisor

- Manage time and resources

- Search and read the existing literature to produce a critical review

- Prepare for your research

- Collect your data

- Analyse your results

- Write up your research

To see video clips of students talking about what they liked and disliked about their projects, click here

Web links:

http://studymore.org.uk/reports.htm - comprehensive advice on planning, conducting and writing research projects. The ABC Study Guide hosted by Andy Roberts at Middlesex University.

final-year-projects.com/index.htm - Mike Hart's site on practical sources of advice on final-year projects, dissertations, or theses. The 'Getting Started' page includes a useful example of a dissertation plan.