This course introduces students to the essential stages of the research project lifecycle, from problem identification to project execution. It emphasizes how to formulate clear research questions, define objectives and hypotheses, and anchor them within theoretical frameworks. Students will learn to design rigorous research protocols, select appropriate methodological approaches, and plan resources, timelines and milestones effectively. The course also covers project management tools - such as Gantt charts, risk assessment frameworks, and contingency planning, as well as good practices for collaboration, supervision and progress monitoring. By the end of the seminar, students will be able to prepare a structured research plan, design a research project aligned with academic standards, and present their proposal with confidence and clarity.
3 ECTS
Prof. Valérie SWAEN & Ingrid PONCIN
See the full course description here
CONTENT
This course has four main objectives:
Framing a Research Problem
Identifying gaps in the literature
Defining research objectives and hypotheses
Aligning research questions with theoretical frameworks
Positioning a research project within an existing body of knowledge
Structuring a Research Project
Designing a research protocol
Choosing qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methodologies
Constructing variables and defining data needs
Planning data collection and analysis strategies
Project Management Tools
Develop Gantt charts, milestones, and deliverables
Resource allocation and timeline planning
Risk assessment and contingency planning
Collaboration and supervision dynamics
Writing a doctoral admission file
Gather and produce all the required materials to complete a doctoral admission application or a doctoral scholarship submission
EVALUATION METHODS
Students are assessed on a continuous basis, including:
Group activities: reading, analyzing, presenting and discussing scientific articles and research projects;
Individual assignments: developing a robust research project and preparing a detailed research plan.
Oral presentation: pitching a doctoral research project.
Class participation.
By the end of this seminar, students will be able to:
Prepare a structured and coherent research plan.
Write a research project aligned with academic standards.
Pitch their doctoral research proposal effectively.
Important note: By submitting an assignment for evaluation, students affirm that (i) the work accurately reflects the verified facts—particularly when generative AI tools are used, which must be explicitly acknowledged—and (ii) all requirements, including those related to transparency and documentation, have been fully met.
Failure to respect these commitments, whether intentionally or through negligence, constitutes a violation of academic integrity and will be treated as academic misconduct