This essay should define and describe epistemology and consider how it is taken into account when planning and designing a research project. ‘Other practical factors’ might include ontological position in relation to epistemology as well as some of the various factors which need to be considered when planning and designing a research project. Obviously your own intended and developing research project would be a natural choice for illustration – though some of you may wish to draw from issues arising from a reported research project that you are aware of..

Suggested Reading:
Blaikie, N (1993) Approaches to Social Enquiry London: Polity Press (Ch2)



Bryman, A (2012) Social Research Methods Oxford: OUP 4th edition (part one: Ch.1 and 2 and Ch 7 and Ch 17)
Hopwood et al (2005) Sustainable Development: mapping different approaches. Sustainable development 13(1): 38-52
Lamont,C (2015) Research Methods in International Relations London: Sage 
Mason, J (2002) Qualitative Researching, London: Sage (Ch.1)
Maxwell, J.A (1996) Qualitative Research Design London: Sage