Sample Assignment The aim of this assignment is to enable you to demonstrate the knowledge, understanding and skills required to carry out research. You will need to present your findings in a formal report and review your personal learning. You must prepare a portfolio of evidence that documents your research methodologies, the completed research and finally the review. Task 1 - Planning a Research Project In this section of the portfolio you should: - Explain the scope and objectives for a valid research question or hypothesis. - Present a proposal that clearly demonstrates your understanding of the question or hypothesis. - Explain the research methods and techniques that you will use in conducting your research. Extension activities: To gain a distinction grade you must: - Evaluate your chosen research methods and techniques, showing how they support achievement of the stated objectives. Task 2 Conducting the Research Provide evidence for your portfolio, which demonstrates your ability to: - Use different research methods to gather primary and secondary data to address the research question or hypothesis. - Include the data in your portfolio and analyse the information gathered from it. Extension activities: To gain a merit grade you must: - Evaluate the strengths and limitations of data collection and analysis. Task 3 - Presentation of Research Findings Present your research findings in an appropriate format for inclusion in your portfolio of evidence. In the findings ensure you: - Appraise the relevance and value of the information you have gathered. - Review the validity of the research outcomes against the stated objectives. Extension activities: To gain a merit grade you must: - Participate in a question and answer session with the audience where you respond to the questions posed. Task 4 - Reflective Log On completion of your research project, you are to prepare a reflective log. The reflective log must include: - A reflection of your own learning in carrying out research investigations. Extension activities: To gain a merit grade you must include the following in your reflective log: - An identification and analysis of actions for improvements in future research projects. - A recommendation of future opportunities for own professional learning based on outcomes from research investigation and your reflections on your own learning. To gain a distinction grade you must: - Create a plan to improve your own skills for future research