This module links to L5 research methods and L6 Innovative research dissemination for professional practice.

Educational Inquiry Detailing findings from a small-scale research project
* Introduction/Problem: Briefly state the purpose of the document and the problem it addresses.
* Background: Provide necessary context without going into excessive detail.
* Analysis and Key Findings: Summarize the most important data, analysis, and results from the document.
* Conclusion and Recommendations: Clearly state the conclusions and any recommendations for action.

Formative assessment opportunities include:
Presentation of summary to peers
Drafts
Peer reviews

The purpose of this module is to provide you with an understanding of data collection, data analysis, presenting findings and offering conclusions and recommendations. This executive summary is a concise overview of your project that highlights the most critical information, conclusions, and recommendations. It's designed for the reader grasp the key points without reading the entire document.

Rationale
This builds on your research proposal at L5 which will have detailed the context and surrounding literature to your study. It also links to the L6 module Innovative research dissemination for professional practice which will articulate your findings in much more detail.

1. Demonstrate systematic understanding and contemporary in-depth knowledge of a chosen area of study within the education or early childhood studies sector.

Programme Learning Outcome: 1. Knowledge and understanding

2. Conduct and lead the planning, design, analysis and evaluation steps of a small-scale, ethical research project, showing awareness of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge.

Programme Learning Outcome: 5. Research skills

The teaching, learning and assessment strategy has been carefully developed for this module. It recognises you may bring with you practical experience as level 6 students and knowledge of specific contexts to share with others, and this pool of practical experience will be used to promote discussion and debate, which will build upon existing knowledge to encourage reflection and critical thought. A digitally enabled blended approach will be used to support both virtual and face to face opportunities.

University workshops - You will also be asked to use the ideas explored in the sessions in planning your future work. You will also be asked to collaborate with others in preparing and presenting your work. The methods are designed to provide practical contexts for the analysis of contemporary issues and problems of a practical nature. Workshops will include opportunities for discussions.

Work Related Learning – You will be required to reflect on values, practices, assumptions and work-place policies. Work-based activities help to establish connections between the workplace and issues raised by the programme.

Lectures - You will be given lectures which will provide theoretical underpinning on key educational concepts. These may take the form of face-to-face, digital or virtual sessions.

Tutorials – You will be given the opportunity to discuss work-related and academic concerns in small group tutorials and/or individual tutorials. This will support the development of theoretical understanding.

Guided reading and supported self-study – You will be provided with booklists and reading tasks in order to enable you to engage with relevant and appropriate debates.

Drop-in support sessions, to support you with assessment.

Simulation activities

This module will also provide opportunities for you to:
* Work with others
* Develop interpersonal skills
* Demonstrate the capacity to plan, share goals, and work as a member of a team
* Communicate and present oral and written argument

* Education and early years research databases
* Sessions in places other than university rooms
* Related work based learning opportunities

BERA ethical guidelines 2023

Essential guidelines for ethical conduct in education research

Cohen,L Manion, L and Morrison, K. (2017) Research methods in education (8th Ed). London. Routledge

Seminal text for education researchers, covers all aspects of the research process

Creswell, J and Cresswell, D (2022) Research Design Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. London. Sage

Seminal text for education researchers, looks at all approaches to research design and covers all aspects of the research process

This module will enable you to pursue an area or topic of your own professional and practical interest. It will support you to develop an understanding of research methods and data collection which will develop key skills such as communication and analysis. It will help you to grow your report writing skills and the ability to plan, carry out and evaluate a project.