This module establishes early on that research is “asking a question to which we do not already know the answer, and then collecting data and conducting analysis in order to answer the question.” The nature of research is exploratory, and this requires an open mind and the willingness to enter into a project without knowing the outcome. The goal is to let the evidence (rather than your ideas at the outset) determine your conclusions. At the same time, you must be willing to insert yourself into the process, to take ownership of your work, and to posit a conclusion or answer to your question – a balance critical to generating good research. This module puts forth several standards that proper research must follow, and offers solutions to some of the difficulties commonly faced during the course of a research project.
