To develop learners’ skills of independent enquiry and critical analysis by undertaking a
sustained research investigation of direct relevance to their Higher Education programme
and professional development.
- Unit abstract
This unit is designed to enable learners to gain confidence in using research techniques and
methods. It addresses the elements that make up formal research including the proposal, a
variety of research methodologies, action planning, carrying out the research and presenting
the findings. To complete this unit satisfactorily, learners must understand the theory that
underpins formal research. The research itself will depend on learners, the context of their
area of learning, their focus of interest and the anticipated outcomes. This unit draws
together a range of other areas of content from within the programme of study to form a
holistic piece of work that will make a positive contribution to the learner’s area of interest.
Learners should seek approval from their tutors before starting their research project.
- Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
1 Understand how to formulate a research specification
2 Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to specification
3 Be able to evaluate the research outcomes
4 Be able to present the research outcomes.
Unit content
1 Understand how to formulate a research specification
Research formulation: aims and objectives; rationale for selection; methodology for data
collection and analysis; literature review; critique of references from primary sources
e.g. questionnaires, surveys, interviews; secondary sources e.g. books, journals,
internet; scope and limitations; resource implications
Hypothesis: definition; suitability; skills and knowledge to be gained; aims and
objectives; terms of reference; duration; ethical issues
Action plan: rationale for research question or hypothesis; milestones; task dates;
review dates; monitoring/reviewing process; strategy
Research design: type of research e.g. qualitative, quantitative, systematic, original;
methodology; resources; statistical analyses; validity; reliability; control of variables
2 Be able to implement the research project within agreed procedures and to
specification
Implement: according to research design and method; test research hypotheses;
considering test validity; reliability
Data collection: selection of appropriate tools for data collection; types e.g. qualitative
and quantitative; systematic recording; methodological problems e.g. bias, variables,
control of variables, validity, reliability
Data analysis and interpretation: qualitative and quantitative data analysis (interpreting
transcripts); coding techniques; specialist software; statistical tables; comparison of
variable; trends; forecasting
3 Be able to evaluate the research outcomes
Evaluation of outcomes: overview of the success or failure of the research project
(planning, aims and objectives, evidence and findings, validity, reliability, benefits,
difficulties, conclusions)
Future consideration: significance of research investigation; application of research
results; implications; limitations of the investigation; improvements; recommendations
for the future, areas for future research
4 Be able to present the research outcomes
Format: professional delivery format appropriate to the audience; use of appropriate
media
Learning outcomes and assessment criteria
Learning outcomes
On successful completion ofthis unit a learner will:
Assessment criteria for pass
The learner can:
LO1
Understand how to formulate a
research specification
1.1 formulate and record possible research project outline
specifications
1.2 identify the factors that contribute to the process of
research project selection
1.3 undertake a critical review of key references
1.4 produce a research project specification
1.5 provide an appropriate plan and procedures for the
agreed research specification
LO2
Be able to implement the
research project within agreed
procedures and to specification
2.1 match resources efficiently to the research question
or hypothesis
2.2 undertake the proposed research investigation in
accordance with the agreed specification and
procedures
2.3 record and collate relevant data where appropriate
LO3
Be able to evaluate the research
outcomes
3.1 use appropriate research evaluation techniques
3.2 interpret and analyse the results in terms of the
original research specification
3.3 make recommendations and justify areas for further
consideration
LO4
Be able to present the research
outcomes
4.1 use an agreed format and appropriate media to
present the outcomes of the research to an audience
Guidance
Essential requirements
Tutors will need to establish the availability of resources to support independent study before
learners proceed with their proposals.
It is essential that a culture of health and safety is embedded in all the units to ensure that
the learners understand the importance and relevance of health and safety issues. Therefore
there should be clearly signposted aspects of current legislation and health, safety
Managers
Due to its reputation, Latino Engineering became a much sought after company. Many contracts were awarded and overall, profitability was soaring. This attracted many investors who either wanted a stake in the company or to buy it entirely. Dominic had many offers to evaluate either to sell in part or as whole. He knew that if he allowed other shareholders into his business, he would lose full authority in major decision making and strategy development for his company. Furthermore, he is not used to taking instruction from others as for the last 30 years, he has been the sole decision maker for the company. Considering this, Dominic decided that he will only sell the company outright and then retire.