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Introduction to Educational Research at Doctoral Level (Department of Education Doctoral Researchers only)

During this session we will explore what makes good education research, how to get started, and the process of developing research questions that can be answered. We will discuss Brunel's criteria for a doctoral thesis - 'significant and substantial contribution in a particular field of learning'. We explore the concept of 'original research', the length and scope of the thesis, and the writing (and rewriting) of a thesis abstract. The session will also reflect on the key elements of a good thesis, and its preparation and submission.

Readings & tasks

  1. Furlong, J. & Lawn. M. (2011). Disciplines of education. Their role in the future of education research. London/New York: Routledge.
  2. Ball, S. (2013). The education debate. Second edition. Bristol: The Policy Press.

Aimed at

Department of Education Doctoral Researchers only

Presented by

Mike Watts and Gwen Ineson

Key learning outcomes

  • What makes good research?
  • How do I start?
  • How do I develop answerable research questions?

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