Chapter 2 Research

2.1 Introduction

This chapter outlines the research methodology used to prepare this dissertation. It intends to illustrate the sources of information used and shows the ways in which the information was obtained. Also discussed are the limitations experienced in relation to the collection of data.

2.2 Definition of research

“The concise Oxford dictionary as careful search or inquiry; endeavour to discover new or collate old facts etc. by scientific study of a subject; course or critical investigation” (Naoum; 1998)

2.3 Research Process

The research process was subdivided into four different parts:

2.3.1 Research Planning

Research planning initially began during the author’s placement year prior to submitting the dissertation proposal. The topic was originally chosen because the author being enrolled as a probationer member of the SCS felt that there was a lack of information and the APC seemed to be surrounded by an “air” of uncertainty amongst students wishing to enrol in the process.

This allowed the author to identify the possible areas of approach and a preliminary investigation on the availability of information was undertaken. Being satisfied that enough information was available the author prepared and submitted the proposal. After the topic had been approved the next stage in research planning was to identify the aims and objectives of the dissertation.

Following this, a program was devised in order that each objective is researched adequately. Sufficient time was allocated for gathering data and sourcing information, to gain a good understanding of the topic before writing began.

2.3.2 Data Collection

Data collection was conducted using primary and secondary sources. All the information collected was read in detail and the relevant sections were highlighted, before being divided into relevant chapters and stored in a research folder. Meetings were held with the dissertation tutor on a regular basis and advice was given on sourcing of information and the structuring of chapters. Records were kept in accordance with the Limerick Institute of Technology quality procedures.

2.3.4 Secondary sources/Literature Review

The dissertation drew inputs from secondary sources of information. Extensive use was made of the library facilities at LIT. Information was also obtained through the use of DIT, Bolton Street Library, and a visit to the RICS library Great Georges Street London. The main Secondary sources of information examined included:-

Textbooks relating to the APC
Articles from Journals and Magazines
Internet websites relating to the APC
Previous dissertations within the school of the built environment
The various guides from the SCS websites

The textbooks read in order to get some background to the APC process were (Wilkinson; 2004 & 2006) These text books although based on the RICS system of the APC have content similar in nature; to the SCS equivalent. It proved difficult to find textbooks specific to the APC within Ireland as there has been no such published material.

A number of articles from journals and magazines were particularly useful and provided up to date information and opinion of varying aspects of the APC; (Henney, Davis & Watson) 2004 published an article relating to partnership between third level institutes and the professional awarding body ie the RICS. (Plimmer; 2003) highlights the nature of pre and post qualification professional education as a device to improve the quality of professionals. (Berry, Turrell and Wilkinson 2005) speak about the agenda for change which set out a vision for the future to evaluate the status of the RICS Qualification.

Internet websites were visited and relevant information on the APC and the SCS was selected, the most beneficial websites were:-

The Society of Chartered Surveyors
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
The APC centre

There is little by way of previous research and publications relating specifically to the SCS’s APC and the issues tackled within this dissertation. The authors Questionnaire served to overcome this problem. Dissertations available within the built environment section of LIT were used to assess the general layout and level of content required in the dissertation. A full list of textbooks, documents, articles and dissertations are detailed in the references and bibliography sections respectively.

2.3.5 Primary Sources

Questionnaires, interviews and a case study formed the basis for obtaining the primary sources of information. A questionnaire was drafted. The aim of the questionnaire was to assess the degree of knowledge and the attitudes within the SCS towards the APC. It was decided to keep the questionnaire short and straight forward. An analysis of the results of the questionnaire is given in chapter 8.

Interviews were conducted during the course of the research for this dissertation. In order to prepare for the interview a list of questions for each interviewee were prepared (see appendix a) The interviews were as open mannered as possible and the responses were recorded by hand written notes taken during the interviews. Any additional information given was also recorded. All those interviewed were sincerely thanked for their contribution to the research. The case study carried out is as part of the primary research and is covered in chapter 8.

2.4 Limitations

There was a lack of published information and research regarding the APC in Ireland. The Author compensated for this limitation by obtaining primary information via a questionnaire, interviews and a case study.