Summary

Academic research is a cornerstone of HE study and a skill that empowers you to think critically, explore ideas, and contribute meaningfully to your field. In this unit, you’ve gained tools to locate credible sources and evaluate information. As you continue your academic journey, remember that research is a process of inquiry and discovery. Stay curious, question assumptions, and use your research skills to deepen your understanding and strengthen your academic voice.

Looking Ahead

Here are some practical ways to deepen your research skill set:

Go Beyond Google. If you've already enrolled, you can access the B&FC databases and start exploring resources. Also, try using Google Scholar and JSTOR which are accessible to all. Learn to filter by peer-reviewed sources and most recent publications to find credible, high-quality material.
Think Critically and Read Strategically. Evaluate every source for bias, methodology, and relevance. Don’t just collect information: interrogate it. Ask how and why it supports your argument.
Practice Synthesising, Not Summarising. Learn to weave different viewpoints into a cohesive narrative. The goal isn’t just to report findings: it’s to build arguments grounded in evidence and framed by analysis.
Explore Diverse Perspectives. Engage with interdisciplinary sources: you’ll often find surprising connections that strengthen your thinking.