Objectives
The main objective of this short chapter is to help you come to an understanding of the relevance of your research in relation to what you set out to achieve, the strengths and limitations in what your research is able to put forward, and in relation to both existing and possible future research.
Key Points
While we strive for rigour in the research process, and aim for clarity and coherence in how we analyse and present our work and findings, research is an imperfect process that is influenced by a range of factors. This includes how appropriately we have framed our original research question(s); how effective our methods of data collection and analysis prove to be; and also the extent to which we were able to access and obtain the range of data and participation we hoped for at the outset. It is important that we are able to reflect on and acknowledge the above in presenting our research, so that we can articulate its strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas for further exploration.
A discussion document indicating an approach to assessing the social impact and policy relevance of research, mainly with reference to research in environmental science.
A short paper giving suggestions to consider with a view to making academic research more relevant to the wider society.