h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

It's my own fault, I know. I wanted to do it.

But really, for the project proposal this year, which is basically two half hour interviews with people which we then analyse the text of from the perspective of a particular question (in my case, assuming I get ethical approval, how moving country affects self identity) we get this section on the form
"Outline summary (250 words max):
State clearly and briefly what you propose to do and how you will do it. You should also include an anticipated timetable for the steps in your research project. "

Guidelines are:

Explain research topic, focus and specific research question
Why do it - motivational reasons as well as theoretical rationale. Reference relevant articles and course materials, theory and research but in brief only
Planning process and timetable.

In 250 words? What planet are they on?
Luckily I don't think this bit is marked, but it has to be approved to go ahead.

Mind you the bit that is marked includes 200 word summarys of three reference sources that inform and provide back ground for the study. 200 word summary of a paper saying what it is about, what methods they use and their conclusions.

Maybe I should just miss out every other word or something.
Anyway, printed off to review at work tomorrow and going to be stressed. Why do I put myself through this?

Yes well, in my day.... they used to teach us precis at school. And we'd have an exam on it for the English O level. It's the most useful thing I ever did at school. Apart from Latin.

Yup, my Social Biology course way back in the 70's was like that, some things never change!

If it's any help, you can ask me about the moving countries stuff, since i have moved around much of this little rock rather a lot and like answering questions!



zdt

thanks for the offer zdt!
Social Biology? Is that a euphemism for sex?

coelacanth - precis I don't have much of a problem with - I just dislike doing it!
The real issue was the 250 word one, even in the briefest of styles you have to leave key points out. maybe I just chose to complex a subject. It's been sent in now so we shall see. Some point I'm gonna get a carp mark for one of these.

But it sounds like you've picked an interesting topic, anyway.

Another recent expat here, if you need more victims...