Research report

A research report is a document in which students present and analyse the results of a study. It can be either qualitative or quantitative research and students can use different methods such as interviews, surveys, observations or literature review.

To test the skills, you can have students write a research paper, where they are also responsible for conducting the research. Thus, they develop different skills, on which you can test, such as:

• Analysing – students collect data, analyse and interpret the findings, and present them. 
• Communicate – students communicate their findings clearly and effectively in the report. 
• Investigate – students learn how to conduct an investigation, for example by learning how to form a research question, what methods to use to collect data, and how to analyse and interpret it. 
• Problem solving – students learn to deal with challenges they encounter during the research process, such as lack of data or problems with methods.
• Project management – students learn to plan, organise and execute a project.

A research report is not only a way to test these skills, but also important for students to prepare for a future career that may require them to produce these kinds of reports. 

Want to know more?

• Tekstsoorten: onderzoeksverslag – Rijksuniversiteit Groningen
• Writing a research report (pdf) – University of Adelaide

See also: Case assignment, Research project, Research proposal

See also: FeedbackFruits Automated Feedback.

VU Taxonomy?

Programme specific skills in applying knowledge and understanding
Written communication
Own reflexive attitude and responsibility in society

What total group size?

More than three hundred
More than one hundred
Between fifty and one hundred
Up to fifty
Up to twenty five

What activity group size?

Individual
Small group (2-4 pers)