Analysing the results

This week, the research group at BCU focused on analysing the results achieved based on the hypotheses each tested using the excel spreadsheet template issued to the group. There was an array of variations tested as there were numerous categories to choose from as a result of the database compiled once the questionnaire results were received. Comparisons between RIBA Part I and Part II students were made in conjunction with their overall work output and satisfaction. Others measured the productivity of students who spent more time on their work in contrast to those who spent less time on their work. Interestingly, one of the studies pointed towards students who spent less time than others on the job, while balancing more time towards leisure – demonstrated more satisfaction towards their university and professional work. In all cases, the input was decided by each researcher carrying out the hypotheses they envisaged, while benchmarking their results using a spreadsheet designed to test various hypotheses. This allowed all researchers to secure results which would prove or disprove the theories in question.

Once the tests were conducted, Andrew Hilton and Hannah Vowles sat in on the following Co: LAB session and guided the research group for the next week which would see the group solidifying their results with particular hypotheses based around a unified research question. Many of the tests conducted evidenced ‘null hypotheses’ which mostly meant that the theory in question was disproved. However, the research was just as valuable to the team because, for each hypothesis that was disproven, it was another hypothesis with a conclusive outcome.

Many stereotypical myths about part-time students were affirmed while some unknown facts regarding the part-time course of Architecture at Birmingham City University arose. One, in particular, delivered the result that a quarter of the students at the university came from ethnic minorities, which was an interesting observation based on the fact that previous years saw a much more significant number of students at the university being of an ethnic minority.

While this observation, in particular, did not hold much bearing towards the personal achievements of individuals based on the studies conducted, it pointed to the introduction of ensuring language barriers are addressed. Additionally, the research group also spoke of the potential involvement of families witnessing workshops to help them understand thoroughly the processed and workloads involved in the life of a part-time student undertaking the course of Architecture at Birmingham City University.

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