Research Contract

A Research Contract is a formal agreement between a student and their Research Tutor outlining the expectations, goals, responsibilities, and timelines for a research project. This contract serves as a guide for both the student and the tutor to ensure a clear understanding of what is required for the successful completion of the research.

Key Components:

Objectives and Goals:

• Clear definition of the research project's objectives and goals.

• Specific research questions or hypotheses to be addressed.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Detailed description of the student’s responsibilities, including tasks such as literature review, data collection, data analysis, and report writing.

• Tutor’s responsibilities, including providing guidance, feedback, and support throughout the research process.

Timeline and Milestones:

• A schedule outlining key milestones and deadlines for various stages of the research project, such as proposal submission, data collection, and final report.

• Specific dates for meetings between the student and tutor to discuss progress and address any issues.

Resources and Support:

• Identification of resources needed for the project, such as access to labs, software, or data sets.

• Information on any additional support or training the student may need.

Ethical Considerations:

• Confirmation that the student will complete necessary training (e.g., TCPS2) and adhere to ethical guidelines for conducting research.

Signatures:

• Signatures of both the student and the Research Tutor, along with the date, to signify agreement and commitment to the contract terms.

Purpose of a Research Contract:

Clarity and Accountability: Ensures that both parties have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, which helps in managing expectations and accountability.

Structure and Organization: Provides a structured plan for the research project, helping the student stay organized and on track.

Guidance and Support: Facilitates ongoing communication and support from the Research Tutor, ensuring the student receives the necessary guidance throughout the research process.

Evaluation and Feedback: Establishes a basis for evaluating the student’s work and progress, making it easier to provide constructive feedback and assess performance.