PILOT logo, post doc PILOT logo, information PILOT logo, literacy PILOT logo, online PILOT logo, tutorial welcome information contents page search and retrieve contents page acquiring and managing information contents page new technologies contents page
digital footprint contents page
copyright contents page IL pilot license contents page databases contents page publication process contents page
Welcome

Writing a research proposal: What kind of research?

Remember that a research study can:

  • replicate an existing study in a different setting;
  • explore an under-researched area;
  • extend a previous study;
  • review the knowledge so far in a specific field (a systematic review);
  • develop or test out a methodology or method;
  • address a research question in isolation, or within a wider programme of work; or
  • apply a theoretical idea to a real world problem.

This is not a full list, you need to check whether your department has a preference for particular kinds of research study.

Discuss your proposed topic with a member of academic staff who you think might be appropriate to supervise the project. You may already have been assigned a supervisor - check when they are available and follow the guidance for making appointments.

You should think realistically about the practical implications of your choice, in terms of:

  • the time requirement;
  • necessary travelling;
  • access to equipment or room space;
  • access to the population of interest; and 
  • possible costs.

For example, a project on the occupational back injurues of blacksmiths in Scotland may involve a great deal of travel round the country interviewing backsmiths in their places of work. Is this something that you are prepared and able to do? If the practical considerations associated with your research ideas are unrealistic, you need to consider whether you are willing to modify or reconsider it.

GCU logofont +  |   font -  |   Nextsmall plane | small plane Back |  unit home small plane

Creative Commons Licence
PILOT - Writing a research proposal by The Learning Development Department, University of Leicester modified by Marion Kelt, Glasgow Caledonian University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License