This core module provides students with a sound foundation in the ‘basics’ required for good doctoral research. It also encourages students to engage with a broad range of issues that inform the research process. Key topics include the philosophy of social science, the role of theoretical ideas, the function of literature reviews, the relationship between theories, methodologies and methods of research, the specification of research questions, the importance of being able to communicate effectively, the diversity of forms of academic writing, the value of certain software packages, and the centrality of questions about the ethics and politics of research.
The format of seminars varies with the topic. Some sessions begin with a presentation by a member of academic staff before developing into open discussion; other sessions take the form of a workshop. Most importantly, all of you will make a presentation to the seminar about the challenges and opportunities of your particular research topics.
The aim of all sessions is to provide a supportive environment in which research students can learn from each other and can raise questions about all issues affecting the craft of research.
Advanced modules available within the doctoral programme enable students to specialise in areas of particular relevance or interest, thereby building upon the foundations provided in the Research Process and Research Design module.
There is also a requirement for all students to make a brief presentation on their thesis topic in the ‘Research Presentation’ sessions. The emphasis in these sessions will be on ways of formulating ‘researchable’ problems, identifying clear research questions, and finding appropriate methods of collecting, storing and analysing information. These presentations will form the basis for each student’s upgrade document (see ‘Assessment’), which is a key feature of monitoring student progress.