Fundamental considerations when developing research projects

The nature of research, research questions and objectives are fundamental considerations when developing research projects. In this discussion you should consider: What is the nature of research? What are the differences between basic, applied and pseudo research? How would you generate and refine research ideas? What would you consider when specifying research questions and objectives? The discussion will last for 2 weeks. Learning Outcomes Critically appraise and evaluate research undertaken by others. Unit 2: Formulating Research Topic, Ideas, Questions and Objectives Welcome to Unit 2. In this unit we will see that the specification of clear research questions is a critical element of the research process. Emanating from the research questions are objectives. These objectives should adhere -as a minimum - to the SMART criteria. That is to say that objectives should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timebound. A number of areas have to be addressed prior to specifying the research questions and objectives. Firstly, the characteristics of a suitable research topic need to be understood. Secondly, rational and creative techniques need to be utilised to help generate research ideas. Thirdly, these outline ideas need to be crafted to create specific research questions which capture what the research seeks to address. Fourthly, the research objectives should provide a set of logical steps by which to addr​‌‍‍‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‌‍‍‍‌‍‌‌‌‍​ess and operationalize (Saunders et al, 2019) the components of the research questions. Finally, it is important to view where the research questions and objectives fit within the overall research proposal. Therefore, it is essential that the key components of a research proposal are identified. In this unit we shall: Examine the characteristics that make up a suitable research topic Explore rational and creative methods for formulating a research idea Identify means of transforming research ideas into crafted research questions Determine how to construct a research proposal On completion of this unit you will be able to: Explain the key factors that make up a good research topic Identify suitable methods of formulating research ideas Demonstrate the capability to construct and craft appropriate research questions Construct a research proposal Unit 2 Reading The reading this week focusses on examining the characteristics that make up a suitable research