Your Research Project: A Step-by-Step Guide for the First-Time Researcher

How do you start a research project? What are the hallmarks of a successful research project? These questions are answered in this practical step by step guide to doing a successful research project. This book systematically explains, in a clear and structured way, the theory of and approaches to research while at the same time helping the student//practitioner to develop the topic of their research and acquire the necessary research skills to undertake the successful completion of a research project. It encourages the formation of critical analysis, rigour and independence of thought, fostering individual judgement and skill in the application of research theory and methods. It also develops the crucial skills required in writing research proposals, reports and theses. The particular strength of this book are the way it combines the explanation of practical and theoretical aspects of research directly with the progressive development of the reader′s ideas about their individual research topic. It always refers to the researcher′s subject of study - no dry theorising which is difficult to relate to individual research interests. The book is divided into chapters with explicit objectives, requiring the researcher to apply the aspects of research they have learned in each chapter to the next stage in developing the proposal. It uses a direct approach leading the reader step-by-step through the book with engaging self assessment exercises to reinforce and develop understanding.

After twenty years in architectural practice in Scotland, England and Switzerland designing a wide range of buildings, industrial, commercial, residential, and renovating and restoring historic buildings, I returned to academic activities when I embarked on a Ph.D. at Oxford Brookes University. 
 

My university teaching and examining experience has been at all levels, with the preponderance at postgraduate level. I have supervised to successful completion twenty Ph.D. students and two MPhils, 1 KTP, and examined 13 Ph.D. candidates. I have published several popular textbooks and guides on construction aspects and on how to do research for students and practitioners and how to write Ph.D. theses, Masters and Undergraduate dissertations. 
 

As Senior Researcher, Oxford Institute of Sustainable Development – Architectural Engineering Group, my research was based mainly on the technology of building construction - innovative, existing and historic, on vernacular architecture, and issues regarding accessibility in buildings and surroundings. My published papers and reports are read internationally and have been presented at international conferences.