Context
To achieve this unit, you are required to formulate a research specification, produce a plan and carry out a research project. You will then evaluate the research outcomes and present the findings. The subject of the research must be directly related to your area of study and agreed by your tutor.
Task 1
You need to complete the following steps in order to produce a research project specification and implementation plan. First of all
- formulate and record possible research project specification outlines
- identify and assess the factors that contribute to the research project selection
- undertake a critical review of key references
Now you are at a stage where you can produce your research project specification. This must include:
- a research question
- the purposes of the research
- potential research outcomes
- rationale for choice of research
- consideration of ethical issues
- methodology to be used
Your tutor must agree your research specification before you continue to the next task.
This task covers assessment criteria 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4.
A bibliography must be attached.
Task 2
Provide an appropriate plan and procedures for the agreed research specification. The plan should include:
- specific tasks to be completed
- sequence of tasks
- timings
- key milestones and review dates
- how the research will be monitored
This task covers assessment criteria 1.5.
Task 3
Implement the research project plan in accordance with the agreed specification and procedures. Ensure that you show how you have matched resources to the research question. Record and collate relevant data throughout the research.
Using appropriate research evaluation techniques interpret and analyse the results in terms of the original specification. Draw conclusions and make recommendations, justifying any areas for further consideration.
This task covers assessment criteria 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3.
Task 4
Produce a written report, summarising the findings, presenting the conclusions and appropriate recommendations for an audience. Add any appendices as appropriate.
This task covers assessment criteria 4.1.
A bibliography must be attached.
Guidelines for assessors
The assignments submitted by students must achieve the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by the assessment criteria for the unit. The suggested evidence listed below is how students can demonstrate that they have met the required standard.
| Task number | ACs | Suggested evidence |
| 1 | 1.1,1.2,1.3, 1.4 | Shortlist of research specification outlines
Research specification |
| 2 | 1.5 | Written plan |
| 3 | 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 | Written report |
| 4 | 1.4 | Written report |
