Research is a careful, reflective, systematic investigation of phenomena undertaken to improve human understanding and knowledge. This is reported in a form which allows the research methods and the findings to be accessible to others. A structured investigation is carried out within a system of ideas. A systematically trained mind is likely to be aware of the possible significance of any chance observation.

WHAT IS GOOD RESEARCH?

While individual abstract ideas (concepts) are not merely useful but essential parts of thinking and understanding, it is the system of thought by which they are linked which provides real power. These links or systems or patterns come from explanation, understanding, relationships, cause and effect, prediction and control.

Research is not concerned with the expression of your own beliefs, opinions and views. Research is concerned with 'what is' and, sometimes, with 'what might be' - it cannot determine 'what ought to be'.

THE SKILLS YOU NEED TO CONDUCT RESEARCH

One needs the following 'everyday' life skills:

Reading

Listening

Watching

Choosing

Questioning

Summarising

Organising

Presenting

Critical analytical skills

The ability to synthesise/analyse

Problem-solving skills

Information processing skills

Scanning

Separating the essential from the non-essential
· Use the Internet, computers, networking, as well as some research to see what has been done on your subject as well as information about the research in progress about your topic.

SUCCESSFUL RESEARCH DEVELOPS FROM THE FOLLOWING:

Activity and involvement: Good and frequent contacts (both out in the field and with colleagues) are essential for personal growth.

Convergence: Coming together of two or more activities or interests.

Intuition: Feeling that the work is important, timely, 'right', relevant and a necessity to research.

Theory: Concern for theoretical understanding.

Real world value: Problem arising from the field and leading to tangible and useful ideas for an ever changing society.