In this second instalment of our four-part dissertation mini series, Aimee Merrydew and expert guest Dr. Riadh Ghemmour dive into one of the most common challenges students face when starting their dissertation: choosing a research topic.

Drawing on years of experience in supervising research projects, Riadh shares practical insights into why students often feel overwhelmed at this stage and how to overcome these challenges.

🎯 What's in it for you? By the end of this episode, you should be able to:

✅ Describe common pitfalls in selecting a dissertation topic.
✅ Apply practical strategies to narrow and refine your research focus.
✅ Identify sources of inspiration from previous academic work and personal interests.
✅ Demonstrate reflective practice to track and develop your thinking.

This episode is packed with expert advice to help you move from confusion to clarity. Tune in now to discover how to choose a topic that excites you and sets you up for final-year success 🎧✨

Read the transcript on our Study Matters Podcast webpage: https://www.keele.ac.uk/library/libraryeducationcentre/guides/studymatters/

Episode 19: Choosing a Dissertation Topic that Matters

Are you a student and want to learn how to improve your academic skills, learn more effectively, and succeed in your studies? 

Are you an educator and looking for academic skills resources to share with students to help them reach their full potential? 

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Study Matters is a practical podcast about academic skills and why they matter for student success in higher education.

Each episode, Aimee Merrydew interviews an educator about an area of academic practice in which students typically struggle, from reading to writing and all things in-between. 

🪄 Whatever the topic, our goal is to address common academic challenges by sharing strategies that help you to develop your academic skills, build confidence, and find joy in your learning at university.

Study Matters is brought to you by Aimee Merrydew in the Campus Library at Keele University.

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