1. Developing a research question.

Work in pairs or small groups.

Brainstorm topics that you're interested in studying and write them down on paper or a white board. Spend about 15 minutes doing this.

Organise the topics into groups if there are many.

Select a topic and start to consider different ways you could examine it using a concept map or spider diagram.

Consider alternative questions on the chosen topic.

Decide on a research question.

2. Developing a research proposal.

Take your research question and, using the headings in this chapter, begin to devise an outline research proposal. In particular, set out the following headings and make notes as to what you would include under them.

Introduction
Research question or aim
Objectives
Methods
Data analysis
Dissemination.

This will not work as a linear process – go backwards and forwards between the areas and make adjustments.

If you are working as a small group or pair as part of a larger group session present your draft proposal to the larger group. Their questions and comments will help you to revise your research question and proposal.

Ask a friend or fellow student to summarise back to you what you are planning to do.