Notes for Assignment One: Research reports Possible purposes: Investigative Specific topic (eg. System failure) Scientific
Research reports Traditional structure which covers logical requirements, ensures a “balanced” viewpoint, and ensures the most effective outcome Abstract Introduction (purpose of report/ why it is being written) Historical background (context) Research method (how the investigation was carried out) Results (raw facts/findings eg. Who did what?, when?) Discussion (Interpretation/ opinion) Conclusion (Point out any shortcomings in your research. Suggest further investigation paths.)
Abstract Summary of major elements within a report see Executive Summary 150 words a good limit last job of writing first page after title its purpose is to indicate its relevance to a prospective reader (both topic and outcome)
Introduction Strict structure required for all parts of research reports Background - who commissioned the report - purpose of the report Introduce the topic - scope of the research in relation to the topic as a whole Its purpose is to indicate why the research was undertaken and what it is about
Historical background history of the topic other research on the subject known to the researcher explanation of special terms, concepts Its purpose is to indicate where this research fits into what is already commonly known about the subject
Research method a description of exactly how the research was carried out an explanation of why it was carried out the way it was a justification for how the data was manipulated to get a result The purpose of this section is to clarify how the research was carried out AND to allow anyone else to repeat the research project
Results present the raw data - as it “fell out” - in summarised form (having prepared the audience by explaining the method of summerisation in the previous section) data analysed, clarified to highlight results worthy of further discussion NO OPINION AT THIS STAGE Its purpose is to allow the audience to apply their own logic/ opinion/ belief about the results, before they hear your explanation.
Discussion local - what data shows about the immediate situation broad - what implications the data has in regard to the topic as a whole counter opinion - address possible contrary opinion to your own any other relevant matters about the subject Its purpose is to INTERPRET the results, and their implication. OPINION goes here.
Conclusion explanation of any restrictions which might have biased the research to the results found suggest any further research that could be undertaken to clarify inconclusive results or the subject generally
why this structure? logic clarity discipline effectiveness professional – excellent, clear-minded