Methodology
The University's policy on Equality & Diversity will dictate how the project approaches this research, and it will also ensure that research participants will be treated in a fair and equal manner. The research is also governed by the University's Research Governance and Ethics Committee and is subject to monitoring by this committee. The Steering Committee will also ensure that the project adheres to all relevant policies, and that the research will be conducted with equal opportunities constantly in mind.
The team have conducted a literature review to explore existing studies in occupational segregation. This literature review has informed the next stage of the project - data collation. The focus will be on gathering qualitative data through a process of understanding based on participants' development of opportunities, choices, and individual coping strategies. Basic information (eg. age, gender, ethnicity, disabilities etc) will be taken from each participant, but it is thought that the quantitative data will not be used to inform any results.
Then qualitative data will be collated through a mix of biographical interviews, and log-books. The team have targeted students, engineers, and managers/HR practitioners to take part. The interviews will be in-depth interviews to record details about the individuals career progression, career aspirations, and the journeys they have taken so far.
The log-books will be compiled over a period of time, and should capture any specific instances of segregation, discrimination, and even positive experiences. This data will inform the next stage of the project - dissemination.
Once the team have collected enough data, the analysis will begin and will result in a final report. Findings will also be presented at the dissemination event to be held in December 2007.