GCSE, GNVQ
2.0 Research Objectives and Research Question(s) (200 words)
Research questions (3-5 Subsidiary Questions) that answer the main research question – this is a restatement of the project title (note: Title < — > Question < — > Aim))
3.0 Literature Review (1,000 – 1,200 words)
A summary of theory, and key factors arising from theory, relating to the area of the research. It is important that you link different areas of literature / comment showing a consistent thread of logic connecting the different sources you use.
You need to cite a minimum number of sources (between ten and fifteen will be appropriate). It is prudent to link defined literature to each of your subsidiary questions.
Use the following checklist of questions to inform your LR:
- Is there extensive literature on the chosen topic?
- Is the LR critical?
- Is current research cited?
- Has the researcher distinguished between theory and opinion?
- Have the sources been correctly referenced?
- Have the headings/ subheadings been used to organise the LR?
4.0 Methodology (800 words)
You must briefly justify your suggested methodology by reference to appropriate theory.
4.1 Research Design, Research approach and Research Type
This section should refer to the research design and the reasons for the research. You should present a summary of your data collection and data analysis techniques (secondary only) together with how the results will be presented.
4.2 Rationale
How will you achieve the research aims? Present the proposed research methodology (e.g. research paradigm, methodological approach, methods, techniques, sample size, target populations, equipment and data analysis, if applicable) and explain why is it the most appropriate way to effectively answer the research question. Have you considered any alternatives?
5.0 Access to Data and Research Ethics (100 words)
This section should discuss what you consider to be the key ethical implications of your work and it should also explain how you will gain access to the research field, i.e. how you will find the information you need.
6.0 Limitations (100 words)
Are there any limitations or downsides of your selected research strategy? How are they counterweighting the advantages?
7.0 Bibliography (not included into word count)
You need to include evidence of preliminary reading for this assignment (around 20 sources). Cited works should be flagged and listed using the Harvard style of referencing.
