SHORT COURSE

Research Foundations

Build the logic that supports the whole study.

Move from a broad topic to a coherent research problem, gap, questions, objectives and proposal logic.

F1RMA ScholarResearch. Develop. Advance.

Course summaryBeginner level6 modules4 hours estimated learningSelf-paced deliveryPractical exercises includedBest for: New undergraduate, Master’s and early-stage researchers

6 modulesStructured learning sequence

BeginnerRecommended level

4 hoursLearn at your own pace

PracticalApply the learning directly

Certificate eligibleOn successful completion where enabled

ABOUT

About this course

Move from a broad topic to a coherent research problem, gap, questions, objectives and proposal logic.

The course is structured around practical research decisions rather than memorised definitions. Each module connects concepts to real research tasks, examples and tools.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Learning outcomes

Distinguish a research topic from a research problem.
Identify defensible research gaps rather than relying on location alone.
Develop aligned research questions and objectives.
Connect problem, gap, question, objectives and methodology logically.
Recognise common proposal-alignment weaknesses.

COURSE CONTENT

6-module curriculum

Module 1

Understanding Research

What research is, what it is not, and how research questions drive evidence.

4 lessons · 30 min

Module 2

From Topic to Problem

Narrow a topic, establish the expected situation and identify the unresolved problem.

5 lessons · 40 min

Module 3

Finding the Research Gap

Evidence, methodological, contextual, theoretical, contradictory and temporal gaps.

5 lessons · 40 min

Module 4

Questions & Objectives

Write answerable research questions and aligned objectives.

4 lessons · 35 min

Module 5

Proposal Logic

Connect background, problem, gap, objectives and methodology.

4 lessons · 35 min

Module 6

Foundation Audit

Evaluate a draft research foundation using an alignment checklist.

3 lessons · 30 min

SKILLS YOU'LL GAIN

Topic DevelopmentProblem FormulationResearch Gap IdentificationResearch QuestionsObjectives WritingProposal Logic

TOOLS & RESOURCES

Research Problem BuilderResearch Gap GuideProposal Planner

DETAILS TO KNOW

DeliverySelf-paced online learning

LanguageEnglish

AudienceNew undergraduate, Master’s and early-stage researchers

PracticeWorked examples and applied tasks

SupportCan be combined with F1RMA research consulting

CompletionCertificate eligibility where enabled

READY TO BEGIN?

Start Research Foundations.

Enrol for the structured course, or book guidance if you want help applying the learning to your own research.

Enrol now →

Research HubUse the public research knowledge base →Research ResourcesOpen calculators, matrices and planning tools →Research SupportWork with a F1RMA research consultant →