Studying for a PhD can be a lonely and isolated experience and self motivation is essential. However, we have structured assignments that will eventually be integral to the final thesis, but that make it a more manageable task. These assignments are as follows.

Stage 1

Defining a research question and writing a research proposal. (Approximately 1500 words)

Stage 2

1. Defining inclusion and exclusion criteria for a literature review on the chosen topic. Identifying a relevant search strategy and sources for the review. Extracting relevant literature. Transferring the references and abstracts to Endnote or Refman bibliographic reference manager.
2. Writing a literature review on the chosen topic, analysing the literature with respect to methodology, subjects and methods of analysis of relevant studies. The literature review will identify gaps in the research evidence related to the topic that will inform the research question, (that may end up being different to that defined in the proposal). (Approximately 7000 words)
3. Choose one research article that has high relevance to the chosen research question. Write an in depth critique of that article, focussing on underlying philosophy, methodology, choice of subjects, data analysis and relevance of the discussion, clearly identifying its strengths and weaknesses. (Approximately 5000 words)
4. Choose one research method that you intend to use in your research enquiry and describe that method, including its strengths and weaknesses, issues of reliability and validity and the stance of the researcher. Discuss ways in which this methodology fits with your research question and how it could be used. (Approximately 5000 words)
5. Taking your research question and the methodology chosen to explore it critically appraise the ethical considerations to be taken into account in the research design, data collection, analysis and dissemination. (Approximately 4000 words)
6. Write a detailed account of your research question, your proposed methodology and means of data collection and analysis. Give a timetable for the proposed research, indicating ways in which work and study will be organised to complete the work on schedule. Include a reflective account of ways in which you help and hinder yourself in organising yourself to ensure that you stick to the timetable. (4000 words)
7. Present a poster of your research proposal to the University of Leicester Postgraduate Student Exhibition.
8. Attend APG Review Meeting to discuss transfer to PhD status.

Stage 3

1. Data Collection.
2. Data Analysis.
3. Report Findings.
4. Discussion.
5. Conclusion.

Stage 4

Write up whole thesis incorporating work done during stage 2 and submit.

Stage 5

1. Thesis viva voce examination.
2. Minor modifications if necessary!

Stage 6

Don cap and gown and graduate.