Research Report Writing Workshop overview Introduction Report sections

Research Report Writing

Workshop overview �Introduction �Report sections �Setting it out �Report examples

Introduction “. . . one of the main stages in any research project, regardless of size, is that it has to be written up. Not only is this how you will convey your findings, but being aware of the significance of writing is crucial, because your audience must be persuaded about the credibility and importance of your research. ” (Bryman, 2004, p 490)

Report sections Opening sections Main body Closing sections � Abstract � Literature review � Conclusion � Introduction � Methodology � References � Findings � Appendices � Discussion

Opening sections �Abstract – synopsis of what you did/your results (250 words); key words; written last! �Introduction �Aims and objectives of the study �Why study came about/study background �Definition of terms and concepts �Research questions

Main body �Literature review section – what is already known �Examination of existing literature (reports, academic writing, policy documents etc) on topic of concern �Facts, theories, counter theories, results from empirical studies �Link to your research study; build on existing knowledge

Main body �Methodology section - what you did �Design - cross sectional/comparative/case study design etc; qualitative/quantitative; epistemology; justify choice �Method - interview, questionnaire, focus group, content analysis etc; data collection timings; justify choice �Data sources - where find respondents; justify choice �Respondents - number; characteristics; sample strategy; justify choice �Ethical considerations - consent form; researcher conduct �Limitations - no shows, access problems, resource restrictions �Data analysis - themes, statistical analysis

Main body �Findings section - what you found �Logically split sub sections, could be by, say, �Some kind of respondent characteristic or variable �Positive/negative; supporting/non-supporting �Theme or topic area �Graphical representation where appropriate

Main body �Discussion section – what does it all mean? �Critical evaluation of your research findings �Link to theory in literature review �Research limitations, ethical concerns, suggested remedies �Reflections

Closing sections �Conclusion - what you can infer from your research; recommendations; future research required; keep it short! �References - Harvard, footnote, APA �Appendices - copy of consent form, respondent info letter, copy of questionnaire /interview schedule etc, large tables of raw data, calculations, lengthy stuff!

Individual exercise: Report sections quiz Complete the multiple choice quiz on report sections

Setting it out � A 4 � 1. 5 line spacing � Title page - name, title, institution, year � Contents page � Pages numbered � Sections numbered � Written in prose � Past tense � Third person - ‘It was decided’ not ‘I decided’

Examples �Look at the following examples of abstracts and research reports from real life. Use them to help you guide your own research project.