ANDY: Well, sir, just some advice really. It's about computers ... would you advise us to buy one?

DR SIMON: What can I say, Andy? I know it's a massive expense, but I really feel that it will be of great benefit ... you can always look in the Student Union adverts for second hand ones. Yes?

JANE: I've been looking at some of last year’s dissertations.

ANDY: Is that a good idea, sir? I heard...

DR SIMON: Well, I don't think you should read them in detail too early or you might end up taking more of their ideas than you realise. But yes ... it really is the best guide you can have to the expectations of the ... of what s expected when you write a dissertation.

ANDY: Sorry, Jane, I interrupted you.

JANK: That’s OK. It's just that they did a lot of research using questionnaires ... is that a good idea?

DR SIMON: I think questionnaires are very good at telling you how people fill in questionnaires , but to be frank they tell you vey little else. Avoid them!

ANDY: About interviews ... is it OK if we interview you?

DR SIMON: The tutors? I don't see why not; they don't have any special contribution to make, but you can if you want. There's a whole section on this issue in the Research Guide. I'm afraid it's slightly out of dale, and you’re probably better talking to the tutor on the Research Methods course, but you might find it useful to start there.

ANDY/JANE: OK, thanks.

DR SIMON: OK ... well, great, I hope that sorted a few things out. You can always come and see me or drop me a note if you've got any more queries.

ANDY/JANE: Fine.

DR SIMON: OK. Thanks...