Research: what you cannot plan for

Abstract

All research projects undergo a great deal of preparation, planning, scheduling, deliberation and development. Then 'something' unanticipated and horrible happens to the research project. Are you ready for the unexpected? This paper presents an overview of some of the research related unexpected disruptive occurrences (or adverse circumstances) that have happened during this year to my research project. It explores the procedures experienced and created (methodological, ethical and legal) when adverse circumstances take place during the data collection phase of a research project. It examines these processes in and of themselves, reflecting upon how the ever changing landscape of technology is helping to re-shape particular areas of research. It then discusses what can be learnt from these processes and how my PhD research project has kept continuity during and post these events.