Research is paramount in terms of establishing what has been experienced and discovered in the past, relating this to current studies in the field, and providing some sort of hypothesis or
prediction for the future.
It also involves the exploration of a range of primary and secondary sources of information. From theses sources, conclusions can be drawn regarding a particular question or theory that may need to be investigated and tested. Submitting a research proposal, may be based upon these original findings, and through the adoption of a research methodology, new discoveries could be unearthed and recorded.
There are a number of elements that contribute to research. These can include the application of a research methodology that will determine how the research is conducted and also whether it will be of a qualitative or quantitative nature.
On completion of this unit learners should be able to:
1. Conduct a literature review that will engage them in identifying a range of primary and secondary information sources;
2. Review and evaluate sources and triangulate the information gathered to determine currency and validity in the area of study undertaken;
3. Engage in research seminars both as a participant and as a reviewer;
4. Formulate a research question/hypothesis and write a research proposal, including proposed research method design.