Research Methods

Effective implementation and management of successful engineering projects, building design and construction process requires extensive evidence-based research. While evidence can be extracted from the disciplinary literature, existing databases or previous project experience, original research may also be undertaken to meet the requirements of a specific project. Research is a process of enquiry and investigation, and takes a systematic and methodical approach to the creation of knowledge-as-evidence. Ineffective decision making can occur when a lack of knowledge leads to project delay and failure.
Research Methods guides participants through the logical steps required for the establishment of a research proposal for a professional project or further scholarship. Starting with an overview of the purpose of research, it develops a set of principles designed to build a research proposal based on conceptual issues and different approaches to research design. The collection and review of primary and secondary data, the application of qualitative and/or quantitative methodologies, the collection and interrogation of data, reporting of results and conclusion are all considered.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Articulate and elaborate the principles involved in planning and executing a research project;
2. Propose a conceptual framework for a research problem and assess it in the context of engineering, building design and/or construction;
3. Formulate a research question(s) or a hypothesis;
4. Select and develop the appropriate methodology and measurement instruments for data collection;
5. Critically analyse sources of information and justify the selection and application of methods for data collection and analysis.