'Research Retreats' are short courses in the UK that provide the perfect learning environment for international students preparing for postgraduate research study for the first time. Our short courses are designed to help build your skills, knowledge and capability in specific research study areas.​

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Full-time postgraduate researchers must complete the compulsory modules below by the end of their first year of study. Part-time postgraduate researchers must complete the compulsory modules by the end of their second year of study. Exemptions from some of the modules may be granted dependent upon prior research training. 

1. Exploring study skills for post-graduate research

2. Exploring research skills, methods and practice (Full Course is 5 days or 5 separate day courses for full course)

• Day 1: Introduction to Research and Critical Thinking

• Day 2: Research Methodologies & Design

• Day 3: Data Collection & Analysis

• Day 4: Academic Writing, Publishing & Impact

• Day 5: Presenting Research & Career Development

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1. Research Retreat - Exploring study skills for post-graduate research

 

Overview

Designed to instil students with the skills and confidence required for academic success after the summer.

1. Our Study Skills class is specifically for students who planning to study for a degree in the UK. Lessons cover topics such as time management, planning a workload, essay writing, presenting with confidence, taking notes and exam preparation.

2. With specific reference to Higher Education study in the UK, students discuss requirements for assignments and dissertations, CAS, and theory of knowledge. This course is also highly recommended for students who want to work on their English language skills in a more academic context.

3. Learn to be mindful. To take time to put things into perspective so that you can get the most out of your current studying experience and enjoy the learning process without feeling overwhelmed.

 

Working in small groups, classes will cover:

1. Time management: note-taking and listening skills.

2. Effective writing skills: comparing, contrasting, defining, elaborating, describing, and learning how to structure and write an essay in an academic context.

3. Reading with purpose: extracting info, focusing on specific text, analysing it and developing critical thinking skills.

4. Verbal skills: listening, focusing, presenting, debating and role playing.

5. A debrief on university, future career choices and UCAS.

6. Develop the seven characteristics required for success: zest, grit, optimism, gratitude, social intelligence, curiosity, self-control.

7. Sources: how to use the library, plagiarism, referencing and academic integrity

8. Assessment: what does the mark mean and interpreting results.

9. Preparing for exams: Including, IELTS, and other International Examinations.

10. Writing an extended essay.

11. Introduction to “Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)”, “Theory of Knowledge (TOK)” and “Office for Students (OfS)”.

12. UCAS studying and assignments: time management, planning work, breaking down a task and meeting deadlines.

 

Learning Outcomes

Our students outcomes are:

1. Improved English in an academic environment.

2. Discover essential techniques to assist them with their future academic studies.

3. Gain the confidence to apply these techniques with ease when starting new projects or taking tests.

4. Learn to be mindful. Take time to enjoy the learning process without feeling overwhelmed.

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2. Research Retreat - Exploring research skills, methods and practice

 

Course Overview

This training program aims to equip PhD students with essential research skills, effective methodologies, and best practices to enhance the quality of their academic work. It provides a structured approach to research design, data collection, analysis, and academic writing.

 

Course Duration: 5 Days Course (or 5 separate 1 day course)

Delivery Mode: In-person / Online (Interactive Sessions)

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Day 1: Introduction to Research and Critical Thinking

 

Key Topics:

• Understanding the Research Process

• Developing Research Questions & Hypotheses

• Literature Review Techniques & Managing Sources

• Critical Thinking and Analytical Approaches

 

Activities:

• Group discussion on research experiences and challenges

• Hands-on session: Effective literature search using academic databases

 

Day 2: Research Methodologies & Design

 

Key Topics:

• Qualitative vs. Quantitative Approaches

• Mixed Methods Research

• Research Ethics & Integrity

• Sampling Techniques & Study Design

 

Activities:

• Case study analysis of different research methodologies

• Ethics debate: Handling research dilemmas

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Day 3: Data Collection & Analysis

 

Key Topics:

• Data Collection Techniques (Surveys, Interviews, Experiments)

• Introduction to Statistical and Qualitative Analysis Tools

• Common Pitfalls in Data Interpretation

 

Activities:

• Workshop: Hands-on practice with software (SPSS, NVivo, or Python/R for research)

• Peer review: Evaluating sample data analysis

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Day 4: Academic Writing, Publishing & Impact

 

Key Topics:

• Structuring a Research Paper / Thesis

• Writing for Peer-Reviewed Journals

• Managing Citations and Avoiding Plagiarism

• Communicating Research Effectively

 

Activities:

• Writing exercise: Abstract and introduction development

• Peer review session: Feedback on writing samples

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Day 5: Presenting Research & Career Development

 

Key Topics:

• Effective Presentation Skills

• Conference Papers & Networking Strategies

• Funding & Grant Writing

• Research Collaboration & Career Pathways

 

Activities:

• Mock research presentations with feedback

• Panel discussion with experienced researchers

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Assessment & Certification:

• Participation in all discussions and workshops.

• Submission of a short research proposal or literature review at each day.

• Certificate of completion for active participants (On completion of all 5 Days).