ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the final step in the research process: the report of findings. As emphasized in several chapters, a critical feature of science is that the findings are public and subject to formal peer review. This aspect of scientific research does not guarantee accurate results, but it does comprise a built-in corrective mechanism. The first section of the chapter discusses insights and general guidelines for getting started and following through with the writing process. Then the chapter summarizes and describes the organization of three types of research reports most familiar to student researchers: (1) the research-based journal article and similar papers, (2) the conference report, and (3) the poster display. The poster display is a more visual type of research dissemination than papers or presentations that is increasingly important in both class activities and at professional conferences. Three other major types of written reports are discussed in an appendix: (a) the monograph, (b) the government report, and (c) the evaluation report. The appendix also describes the components of a qualitative report and a quantitative report. The chapter ends with some considerations for preparing and presenting oral and poster presentations in class and at professional conferences.
