Component 1: Report 

Component 2: Research Proposal + Ethics Form

Component 1: Report (2000 words)

Component 2: Research Proposal (3000 words) + Ethics Form

Component 1: Individual Report Submission

Component 2: Individual Research Proposal Submission + Ethics Form

Component 1: Report (2000 words) = 50%

Component 2: Research Proposal (3000 words) = 50%

500-word formative submission 

Deadline: 21st October, 2024 before 23:59

Component 1: 2000-word Report 

Deadline: 28th October 2024, before 23:59

Component 2: 3000-word Research Proposal 

Deadline: 4th November 2024, before 23:59

• GBS grades your assessment anonymously, so you do not need to include a TITLE PAGE TO YOUR REPORT. 

• PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION SUCH AS YOUR NAME, GBS ID AND BSU ID IN YOUR REPORT. 

• THE FIRST PAGE OF YOUR REPORT SHOULD BE YOUR TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

Formative 500

Overview: You are required to write 500 word on Personal Development Objectives and Self-assessment, Reflection and Evidence of Development.

Component 1: Report

Overview: You are required to submit a Self-development and Critical Reflection Report in 2,000 words discussing how the study of the course had influenced your development x-raying where you were at the start of this course and using it to show what you have achieved over the time of your study.

Component 2: Research Proposal + Ethics Form

Overview: You are required to submit a Research Proposal identifying a suitable topic for Academic Research in 3,000 words discussing a specific area or issue of interest in construction management and in construction at large. Also fill the attached Ethics Form located on Moodle at the Study Skills page or attached to this document and attach to your proposal.

COMPONENT 1 (REPORT): Additional information/guidance:

1. Introduction (250 words)

Introduce the report’s objective. Briefly explain the context of your self-development, such as a course, training program, or personal initiative. Outline the specific goals you aimed to achieve through this self-development process.

2. Personal Development Objectives (250 words)

Define and elaborate on your self-development objectives. Describe the specific skills, knowledge, or attitudes you intended to develop. Explain why these objectives were important to you.

3. Self-assessment, Reflection and Evidence of Development (500 words)

Explain the framework or model you used for reflection. Critically assess your progress and experiences. Describe specific experiences or activities related to your objectives. Evaluate the outcomes of these experiences in relation to your goals. Identify any challenges or obstacles you faced. Reflect on what you learned from these experiences and challenges. Provide evidence to support your reflections. Include examples such as feedback, assessments, certificates, work samples, or any other relevant documentation. Highlight key achievements or milestones.

4. Analysis of Skills, Competencies, Personal Impact and Insights (500 words)

Analyze how your skills and competencies have evolved. Discuss specific skills that have improved. Identify any new skills you have acquired. Relate your development to broader competencies and frameworks (e.g., professional standards). Reflect on the personal impact of your development. Describe any changes in your attitudes or mindsets. Identify any changes in your behavior or habits. Share significant insights or realizations gained through the process.

5. Future Development Plan (250 words)

Outline your plan for ongoing development. Describe how you plan to continue developing your skills and knowledge. Set new development objectives based on your reflections. Provide a concrete action plan with steps, timelines, and resources needed.

6. Conclusion (250 words)

Summarize your reflection and development. Recap the most important insights and achievements. Reflect on the overall impact of the self-development process on your personal and professional life.

10. References

Cite any sources or literature you referenced. Follow a consistent citation style (Harvard Referencing) to list all references.

Additional Tips for Writing:

Authenticity in your reflections will make your report more meaningful.

Provide detailed examples and evidence to support your reflections.

Follow a clear and logical structure to ensure your report is coherent and easy to follow.

Use phrases like “I learned that…”, “This experience taught me…”, “I realized…”, etc.

Review your report for clarity, grammar, and spelling errors.

COMPONENT 2 (RESEARCH PROPOSAL):  Additional information/guidance:

1. Title

Clearly state the research topic. The title should be concise and descriptive, providing a clear indication of the research focus.

2. Introduction (300 Words)

Introduce the research topic and its significance. Provide context and background information on the topic. Clearly state the research problem or question you aim to address. Explain the importance of the research and its potential impact.

3. Literature Review (1050 Words)

Review existing research related to your topic. Summarize key findings and theories from relevant literature. Identify gaps or limitations in the current knowledge that your research will address. Mention any theories or models that will guide your research.

4. Research Objectives and Questions (300 Words)

Define the goals and specific questions of your research. List the main objectives of your research. Formulate specific research questions or hypotheses that your study aims to answer.

5. Methodology (350 Words)

Describe the research design and methods you will use to conduct the study. Specify whether your study is qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. Explain how you will collect data (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments). Describe the sample population and sampling methods. Outline the methods you will use to analyze the data. Address any ethical issues related to your research.

6. Timeline and Budget (if applicable) (500 Words)

Provide a realistic timeline for completing the research. Break down the research process into phases (e.g., literature review, data collection, analysis). Set specific milestones and deadlines for each phase. Estimate the costs associated with your research. List potential expenses such as materials, travel, and participant incentives. Mention any funding sources or grants you apply for.

7. Expected Outcomes (500 Words)

Predict the potential findings and contributions of your research. Describe what you expect to discover or demonstrate through your research. Discuss the potential implications for theory, practice, or further research.

8. References

List all the sources cited in your proposal. Follow a consistent citation style (Harvard Style) for your references.

ETHICS FORM

Fill up the attached Ethics Form on Moodle located in the Study Skill tab or attached below in this document to complete the Research Proposal by attaching it to the end of your proposal, properly filled and should be submitted along with your Research proposal. 

Additional Tips for Writing:

Use clear and concise language to communicate your ideas effectively.

Provide detailed information about your research plan and objectives.

Ensure that all sections of your proposal are logically connected and support your research goals.

Review your proposal for clarity, grammar, and spelling errors.

Additional information/guidance:

• Remember to include in-text citations and a reference list according to Harvard Referencing style.
• Student must include academic references. Your work will be graded against the references too. 
• Always remember to use headings and subheadings, which form your report table of content.
• Use any of the following fonts: Arial, Calibri, Sans-Serif or Times New Roman for your text.
• You are to add relevant images while writing your report to support your discussion. Also, caption the images appropriately as they are also graded in the report structure. You can add an outline for the report too.
• Use font size 12, with 1.5 or double line spacing. The presentation of the work is also considered.
• The file format must be Microsoft Word in .doc, .docx, .odt or Pdf, but do not submit in Apple’s Pages format. 
• The limit for the word count is 2000 words +/- 10% for the Report and 3000 words +/- 10% for the Research Proposal. Anything outside the limit may not be assessed.
• You must reference all sources and information used in the report using the Harvard Referencing Guide in Study Skills Tab.
• Remember to access the ‘Report Template’ and ‘Research Proposal Template’ via ‘Assessments’ tab on Moodle. 
• Kindly see attached grid for assessment criteria.

Criterion 1 (20%)

Introduction and Personal Development Objectives

The introduction adequately introduces the topic but lacks depth or engagement. The purpose is somewhat clear, but there may be gaps in how it relates to the broader context or research objectives. The objectives are present but may lack specificity or relevance to the research/project.

The introduction is poorly written or missing. It fails to define the purpose or relevance of the research/project. The structure is disorganized and lacks coherence. Objectives are absent, unclear, or irrelevant to the research/project. 

Criterion 2 (30%)

Self-assessment, Reflection and Evidence of Development

The self-assessment is thorough, insightful, and demonstrates a deep understanding of strengths and areas for improvement. The reflection is highly detailed and demonstrates critical thinking, clearly linking experiences to learning outcomes. Substantial evidence of both personal and professional development is presented, supported by concrete examples.

The self-assessment is adequate but lacks depth or specificity in identifying strengths and weaknesses. The reflection is present but somewhat superficial, with limited critical thinking or analysis. Evidence of development is present but may be general or lacking in detail.

The self-assessment is incomplete or lacks clarity, with minimal identification of strengths or areas for improvement. The reflection is limited, lacking critical analysis or connection between experiences and learning outcomes. Minimal evidence of development, with little connection to the objectives or goals.

The self-assessment is missing or extremely poor, showing no identification of strengths, weaknesses, or areas for growth. The reflection is absent or irrelevant, with no attempt to link experiences to learning outcomes or future actions. No evidence of development is presented, or the examples provided are irrelevant or insufficient.

Criterion 3 (20%)

Analysis of Skills, Competencies, Personal Impact and Insights 

The analysis is well-supported by specific examples, with clear connections to real-life situations or projects. Evidence of using competencies effectively in practical settings is clear and well-documented. Shows a balanced view of both positive impact and areas for personal improvement. Insights are connected to long-term goals, illustrating how new knowledge or skills will be applied in the future.

Examples are used to support the analysis but may lack detail or specificity in certain aspects. There is some evidence of competencies being applied effectively, though examples could be expanded. The analysis reflects an awareness of both positive contributions and areas for improvement, but it could be more comprehensive. There is some connection between experiences and future development, though it may not be fully developed or clearly articulated.

There is limited use of specific examples, and the analysis may be superficial in identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

Examples of applying competencies may be weak, unclear, or lacking in detail. The analysis acknowledges personal impact but lacks critical evaluation of its significance. Insights are relevant but could be more thoughtful or reflective of broader learning experiences.

Criterion 4 (20%)

Future Development Plan and Conclusion

The development plan is highly detailed, realistic, and well-structured, reflecting an in-depth understanding of personal and professional growth. The conclusion is comprehensive, clear, and effectively summarizes the key points of the analysis.

The development plan is solid, with clear and realistic goals, although it may lack some depth or specificity in certain areas. The conclusion effectively summarizes the key points and reflects on the overall learning experience.

The development plan is present but may be general or lacking in specific detail. The conclusion summarizes the main points but may lack depth or critical reflection.

The development plan is incomplete or lacks coherence, with vague or unrealistic goals that are not aligned with SMART criteria. The conclusion is weak or incomplete, providing little to no reflection on the key points of the analysis.

The development plan is absent or extremely poor, with no clear goals or strategies for future development. The conclusion is missing or irrelevant, offering no meaningful summary or reflection on the analysis.

Criterion 5 (10%)

Sourcing, Referencing and Report formatting

Criterion 1 (20%)

Title Selection and Introduction

The title is acceptable and generally related to the content, though it may be overly broad or somewhat unclear. 

The introduction is present but may be general or lack a clear focus on the research question or thesis.

Criterion 2 (40%)

Literature Review

Criterion 3 (15%)

Research Objectives, Questions and Methodology

Criterion 4 (10%)

Timeline, Budget and Expected Outcomes

Excellent Timeline, Budget and Expected Outcomes

Very good Timeline, Budget and Expected Outcomes

Satisfactory Timeline, Budget and Expected Outcomes

Basic Timeline, Budget and Expected Outcomes

Inadequate or not addressed Timeline, Budget and Expected Outcomes

Criterion 5 (15%)

Sourcing, Referencing and Report formatting including Ethics Form

Name:

1. Will the research involve gathering personal information on identifiable living individuals?

1. Will the research involve gathering confidential information of any kind (i.e. information not currently in the public domain)?

1. Will the research involve participants who are particularly vulnerable or unable to give informed consent (e.g. children, adults with learning difficulties)?

1. Will the research require the cooperation of a “gatekeeper,” e.g. an authority figure who has the power to grant access to groups and individuals possibly without their informed consent?

1. Will participants be remunerated in some form for the information they are asked to provide (e.g. being paid for interviews)?

1. Could the research cause harm to subjects or have negative consequences for them that exceed those experienced in everyday life?

1. To the best of the researcher’s knowledge, will the research raise any issues which should be the subject of ethical consideration and/or review?

    

1. Does the research entail potential security or health and safety risks to the researcher that exceed those experienced in everyday life?

1. It is suggested that research reports are made available publicly upon completion to participants. Do you or your supervisor feel that, for any reasons whatsoever, access to your final report may need to be restricted?

1. RECRUITMENT/SELECTION PROCEDURES: How will participants be selected? What information will be provided about the study? Is there any sense in which participants might feel ‘obliged’ to participate? 

Notes

• Use an information sheet (or explain your alternative and why it’s needed)
• Give participants a brief account of the study aims and data collection methods 
• Explain the rationale for study
• Make clear to participants that the title of the research may evolve depending on the findings.
• Explain how and why their data is being stored, how data will be used and to whom it will be made available (all participants are entitled to know)
• Will the data or findings of this research be made available to participants or to others? If so, specify the form and timescale.

• A copy of the proposed information sheet, written in simple, non-technical language intelligible to your participants should be attached with this form. 

   

• This must be enough for participants to make an informed decision, if necessary following further discussion with the researcher. 

1. INFORMED CONSENT: Please explain your approach to how consent is to be obtained, including from parents, carers and children as appropriate. 

Notes:

• Use a consent form (or explain your alternative and why it’s needed). 
• Consent should be explicit. Participants should opt-in not opt-out
• Participants’ entitlement to withdraw consent should be explained on the consent form used.
• Participants’ right to withdraw must be respected and acted upon whenever reasonably possible. 
• A copy of the proposed consent form, written in simple, non-technical language intelligible to your participants should be attached with this form. 

1.  CONFIDENTIALITY: Who will have access to the data? What measures will be adopted to maintain the confidentiality of participants? 

Notes

• Will the data be anonymised and if so in what ways? Explain how you will achieve anonymity eg. using pseudonyms
• Ensure that any documentation relating to the research maintains confidentiality and anonymity when appropriate. Consider how participants might be identified with reference to any information you might provide.

1. DATA PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT: How do you intend to store your data? How will you keep and archive confidential information? You must follow GDPR guidelines.

Notes

• Explain how you will store and subsequently destroy data. 
• Data must be stored securely. Use password protection and data encryption; avoid portable storage devices; anonymise records and avoid transferring data by email. 
• You must carefully consider how you use data relating to your research project. As a general rule data must be retained until the project is marked and approved. After that any personal data should be destroyed following the successful completion of the research project. 
• Please explain your procedure for dealing with disclosure, and information that you may come across regarding illegal or harmful activities.  
• Researchers must have participants’ explicit permission to disclose personal information to third parties. 
• Consider checking the data you have collected from research participants is factually accurate. It is considered good practice to allow participants to review their contributions before analysis. 
• Consider whether participants have a right to read the final report, (they have the right to view any data that concerns them).

1. PROTECTION OF RESEARCHER (Applicant): Please state briefly any precautions being taken to protect your health and safety if appropriate. 

Notes

• Is there anything about the environment in which you will be researching that requires you to take extra precautions? Consider any potential risks in the environments and contexts you are researching in.
• Do you have any health condition that might give you serious problems during your fieldwork? 
• Ensure you are competent to conduct the research, including all research methods you plan to use

1. ANTICIPATED USE OF RESEARCH DATA: If you anticipate using your data beyond your research project, e.g. in a report for another organisation, please explain

Notes

• If there is a further use of the research data how will this will be handled appropriately? Will it be necessary to request further consent from participants? 

1. PARTICIPANTS WHO YOU WORK WITH OR FOR: 

    

Notes

• Explain how you have considered relationships with colleagues who you work with or managers you work for as part of this research (if appropriate). 
• Carefully consider any particular issues of conducting research with staff in place of work. How will you deal with these? How will you ensure that your role as a researcher is clear to colleagues? Will you only be conducting the research at specific times in the workplace? If so how will you make this clear to colleagues and/or managers?

1. VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS: 

Notes

• Specify whether the research will include vulnerable groups, including children, vulnerable adults or others.  If so, please explain what will be done to facilitate their participation and reduce possible harm to them. If working with people with disabilities, please explain how you will provide any special support that they may need, for instance, in relation to communication or to access to the interview site. 
• Consider if there are any particular issues for children, babies, vulnerable adults, English as a Second Language (ESL) speakers, refugees and other potentially vulnerable participants? How will you ensure your research approach takes account of vulnerabilities? 

Where appropriate

• Consider how information will be provided to parents, and how consent will be requested from parents if appropriate. 
• Please explain clearly how children are asked for assent to participate

1.   PARTICIPANTS IN DEPENDENT RELATIONSHIPS 

Notes

• Specify whether participants will include people in a dependent relationship such as relatives, group members (this could affect their ability to decline to participate). 
• How will you ensure that participants feel able not to consent to the research or to withdraw Carefully consider whether potential participants can give unrestrained informed consent and how to reassure potential participants that non-participation is acceptable and will be fully respected.

START DATE

END DATE

Information sheet ☐

Consent form ☐