Topic 1 - concerns developing a research proposal and outlines the various types of research that may be undertaken by engineers and suggests that most engineers typically undertake research in the applied research space, using a quantitative approach. The importance of developing the research question and topic is stressed along with the need to ensure that the proposed research can be completed within the time allocated to the project.

Topic 2 - succinctly outlines definitions, structures and the role of the literature review in a research report. It stresses how one of the most important roles of the literature review is to show where the proposed research fits within, and augments, the existing international contemporary literature.

Topic 3 - provides an overarching framework to planning a research program, outlining the need to develop a schedule for the entire project and to identify the breadth and depth of testing required to generate adequate and reliable data.

Topic 4 - outlines the importance of accurate analysis, interpretation and presentation of experimental results and explores the use of regression and correlation as tools to help explain trends in data. The role of hypothesis testing in engineering is introduced.

Topic 5 - involves the provision of guidance on structuring and writing the Research Report and preparing the Audio-visual Presentation.