Module 1: Introduction to Research in Architecture
Definition, need, and scope of research in architecture; Types of research: applied, basic, exploratory, evaluative, design research; Understanding research ethics and integrity.
Module 2: Literature Review & Framing Research Questions
Conducting literature surveys: academic databases, journals, and archives; Critical reading and annotation techniques; Identifying research gaps; Formulating research questions, aims, and objectives.
Module 3: Research Design & Methodology
Qualitative methods: case studies, ethnography, interviews, focus groups; Quantitative methods: surveys, experimental research, basic statistics; Mixed methods: when and how to combine approaches; Sampling techniques, data collection tools (questionnaires, observation checklists).
Module 4: Data Analysis & Interpretation
Basics of data organization: coding qualitative data, tabulating quantitative data; Introduction to basics of software tools: NVivo (qualitative), Excel/SPSS (quantitative); Interpreting findings in relation to research objectives.
Module 5: Academic Writing & Proposal Development
Structuring a research paper: abstract, introduction, methodology, findings, conclusion; Citation and referencing styles (APA, Chicago); Writing a research proposal: objectives, rationale, methodology, timeline, expected outcomes.
Final Deliverables
- Annotated Literature Review (minimum 15 sources).
- Research Methodology Framework (aligned with topic).
- Pilot Study / Sample Data Analysis.