This subject introduces students to skills, knowledge and practices used by researchers in the research process. Particular emphasis is placed on the preparation and presentation of a research proposal that is ready for implementation in the final (4th) year of study when students undertake PS422 Property Research Dissertation. Moreover, students are guided in selecting a research topic that interests them, however, with an orientation to the landed profession and discipline. The research topic is then developed into a specific area of research. In doing so, the focus is on specific aspects of doing research. These include research definition, literature search and its critical assessment, framing of the research question and designing the research. In addition, data collection and analysis methods and ethical issues that pertain to the proposed study are addressed. Ultimately, students develop competence in assessing the validity of the published literature, determining the gaps in the evidence and developing a feasible study design that complies with the principles underpinning responsible research practice.