Unit A4: Researching a Topic 

Level: 1
Unit type: Core
Guided learning hours: 30

Unit in brief
Learners will develop the skills needed to carry out some outline research into an agreed topic. They will keep a record of their investigation and then present a summary of their findings.

Unit introduction
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to research a topic that interests you. It could be linked to something you have enjoyed in your sector, something that is happening in your local community or perhaps linked to what you would like to do in the future.
Before starting on your research you will need to decide on the focus for your topic. You will set up a research log to record the research tasks you carry out and the sources that you use.
When you have completed your research, you will summarise and present your findings.
You will use many of the skills you have developed already, such as planning, time management, research and presenting, as well as any sector skills and knowledge that you have learned.
All these skills are important for progressing to further qualifications.

Learning aims
In this unit you will:
A. Carry out research into an agreed topic
B. Present a summary of research findings into an agreed topic.

Unit summary

There are opportunities to develop functional skills in this unit:

Unit content
Knowledge and sector skills
Selecting a suitable topic

• Investigation could focus on the local community or area, linked to a sector, hobby or an extra-curricular activity.
• Agreeing investigation title and the scope of the research with tutor.
• Agreeing deadline.
• Ensuring topic is focused and manageable in the timescales.
• Identifying key actions and milestones for the investigation such as setting up a log, organising visits, deadline for completion.

Collecting information on topic

Sources of information:

• electronic media, e.g. blogs, podcasts, downloads, websites
• printed media, e.g. newspapers/magazines/books
• interviews
• visits.
• Identifying and selecting the key points from research.

Keeping a research log

• Ongoing record of information researched.
• Information on research sources, methods and key findings.
• Ongoing record of information found out through a chosen medium such as a folder, blog, vlog (video blog).

Presenting findings of research

• Summarising key findings.
• Choosing presentation method, e.g. through a PowerPoint®, vlog, written handouts, oral questioning.
• Explaining findings in a clear and concise way.

Transferable skills

• Planning: identifying key tasks to complete.
• Finding out: information from research sources.
• Managing information: selecting the relevant information, choosing appropriate sources of information.
• Communication: through presentation of findings.

Assessment criteria