Dealing with the open-ended nature of research

Teachers and support staff can find it disconcerting to venture into an exploratory study, without a clear idea of where it will lead. Research opens up a multitude of exciting possibilities but this very characteristic can also threaten to become overwhelming. Here are some suggestions that may help.

• Pick a topic that matters to you. This will help to keep you motivated.
• View your research questions as your compass. Return to them when you are unsure which avenue to take.
• Have a working hypothesis (‘I think X might be causing Y’) but keep your mind open to other possibilities. Ask yourself what you will do if the research throws up uncomfortable messages or doesn’t provide the answers you expect.
• Make sure your research plan is manageable. Break your project down into units and milestones. Don’t take on too much at once.
• Get some help in carrying out your research. If possible, form a research team or join a learning group.
• Be prepared to feel a bit overwhelmed at times and recognise this as a natural part of enquiry-based learning.
• Make sure you have someone to help you reflect on your progress and keep you going in the right direction (a research mentor).
• Build in some rewards (‘wow moments’) for completing the main stages of the research. Network with others who are doing research and help each other reflect on your experiences. Share your findings with others who will value your work.