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This lively and rigorous book provides guidance on planning and conducting postgraduate research. Divided into four parts, each of which looks at a different stage of the process, it covers everything from choosing a research area and selecting appropriate methodologies to analysing data and learning from feedback. Chapters contain both active and reflective tasks to help readers develop the skills needed to produce a high-quality dissertation or thesis and offer supportive advice on establishing successful working relationships with supervisors and peers.Clear and accessible in its approach, this book is an indispensable introduction to successful research for postgraduates of all disciplines.New to this Edition:- Fully revised and improved sections on methodology, theorising, engaging with the literature and life after research- Additional guidance on developing soft skills, such as communication and time management, and becoming an active member of the academic community>
List of contents
Introduction.- PART ONE: FIRST STAGE.- Starting Research.- Starting Your Own Postgraduate Research.- Choosing the Right Research Degree.- Choosing Your Supervisor.- Writing a Research Proposal.- PART TWO: SECOND STAGE.- Getting Going: Supervisors, Methods and Time.- Managing Your Supervisor.- Managing the Balancing Act.- Managing Your Time and Tasks.- Your Learning As a Research Student.- Research Questions and Methods.- Carrying Out a Literature Review.- Choosing Appropriate Research Methodologies and Methods.- PART THREE: THIRD STAGE.- More Detailed Research Methods: Maintaining Momentum.- Designing and Using Questionnaires.- Action Research and Phenomenography.- Qualitative Research Methods: Interviews, Focus Groups and Observation.- Using Grounded Theory, Case Studies, Journals and Synectics.- Research Methods for the Arts and Humanities.- Being Organised: Planning to Undertake Your Research.- PART FOUR: FOURTH STAGE.- Support, Progress and Analysis.- Developing a Supportive Research Culture Locally and at a Distance.- Problem-based Research and Problem Solving.- Analysing Data and Thinking About Findings.- Writing Transfer Documents and Progress Reports for MPhil and PhD Thesis.- PART FIVE: FINAL FIFTH STAGE.- Writing Up: The Viva, Presentations and Afterwards.- Writing Up: Definitions and Qualities of a Good MA, MPhil and PhD Thesis.- Preparing Your Thesis.- Preparing for and Undertaking Your Viva.- Presentations, Conferences and Publishing.- Life After the Research.- Index.
About the author
Gina Wisker
