Research and study skills

Duration: 60 minutes

This workshop introduces the EPQ, its benefits, challenges and the work involved to complete one. It helps students consider whether an EPQ is appropriate for them, and if it is, provides direction on what they might want to research. This workshop is most appropriate for the launch of the EPQ and for students who are considering undertaking it.

Duration: 60 minutes

This workshop breaks down the production log component of the EPQ. It helps students understand the value of the production log and how to effectively complete one as part of their EPQ journey. The workshop also explores each page of the log in detail, so students understand what they need to complete and when. It is most appropriate for those at the beginning of their EPQ.

Duration: 60 minutes

This workshop focuses on selecting a topic for the EPQ and writing a research question. We help students identify their topic and plan their research around an appropriate EPQ question. This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those at the beginning of their EPQ journey.

Duration: 60 minutes

This workshop introduces students to the basic frameworks which support time and project management. Students will learn the skills needed to manage their time more effectively and productively, whilst developing an awareness of health, safety and risk management. Students will also explore the importance of communication skills to help them develop an understanding of using appropriate language and tone when working with others. This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those at the beginning of their EPQ journey.

Duration: 60 minutes

This session gives an overview of academic research and provides students with a basic framework to support them on their research project journey. Students will follow a case study and develop ideas around a topic to strengthen their understanding of research skills in relation to their own work.  This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who have decided on the topic of their EPQ and are finalising their question.

Duration: 60 minutes 

This workshop introduces students to the principles of ethics and the research methods to inform their EPQ projects. Students will engage with different research methodologies – including those which are most common in university level study – and be guided through the ethical considerations when undertaking a research project.  This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who have finalised their EPQ question.

Duration: 60 minutes  

This workshop introduces students to critical thinking and explores some of the skills students need to develop their critical thinking. Students will analyse a wide variety of sources and learn to think critically about the information presented to them. This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who are about to begin researching for their EPQ.

Duration: 60 minutes   

This workshop helps students to start navigating the world of online journals. Students will explore what online journals are, why they are useful, the challenges they can create, and how to overcome these to successfully use them in their own EPQ. A fully interactive workshop with guided activities which will help students practice their newfound skills. 

Duration: 60 minutes   

This workshop focuses on the themes of artificial intelligence and academic integrity. It explores what artificial intelligence is, its uses and its pitfalls, and it defines academic integrity and why it is important for researchers. Through interactive elements, which can be incorporated into the student’s production log, the session develops students’ understanding of when AI can and cannot be used for their EPQ. This workshop is most appropriate for those in the research phase of their EPQ journey.

Duration: 60 minutes

This workshop explores academic note making and the different techniques that can be used. Students will reflect on their note making abilities and develop their understanding of how to create meaningful notes.  This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who are currently researching for their EPQ.

Duration: 60 minutes   

This session explores referencing and the different styles students may encounter while researching their topic. Students will consider what it means to plagiarise the work of themselves – or others – and learn how to avoid doing so. This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who are currently researching for their EPQ.

Duration: 60 minutes  

This workshop explores academic writing and the different writing stages involved when undertaking an independent research project. Students will reflect on their research question and develop their skills around understanding the key elements of composing an essay, including editing and proofreading. This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who are finishing their research phase and about to undertake writing their final report or extended essay.

Duration: 60 minutes  

This workshop introduces students to the different skills needed to deliver a strong presentation at the end of their research project. Students will reflect on their research and develop ideas for their presentation such as a PowerPoint or poster. This workshop is designed to build students’ confidence and prepare them for the final stage of their EPQ. This workshop uses interactive elements to incorporate into the student’s production log and is most appropriate for those who are preparing for the presentation element of the EPQ.

Duration: 60 minutes

We explore the skills required to make good notes and the different techniques students can use when revising. Students will reflect on their note making abilities and develop their skills around understanding the importance of making effective notes for revision. This workshop uses interactive elements for students to discuss note making scenarios and reflect on their approaches.

Duration: 60 minutes

This workshop explores the skills required to manage independent study time effectively. Students will learn how to effectively manage competing pressures and obstacles. This workshop also showcases different strategies that can be used to avoid and manage distractions. This workshop also uses interactive elements for students to discuss time management scenarios and reflect on their decision-making processes.

Duration: 60 minutes

This session explores anxiety within the context of exams. It is designed to normalise exam nerves by helping students understand where their anxiety stems from and what they can do to help manage it. This workshop also considers student mental health/wellbeing and provides advice on where students can get support if they are struggling.

Duration: 60 minutes

This session is designed to support students in their understanding of a question and how to approach writing an essay. The skills covered in this workshop are applicable to both exam-based and coursework-based questions. Students will develop their skills around breaking down an essay question, understanding instructional verbs and writing within the parameters set in the question. The workshop guides students through a basic essay framework and provides tips on how to develop an academic writing structure, form a conclusion and incorporate evidence into an essay.