How can we reduce the impact of future fur products on animals and environment?
This is my final research question. From the beginning of my research to the end of my master journey, my research question has been optimised by three tutors and up to two semesters. The changes of my research question, indeed, reflect to my iteration of knowledge and output at some extents.
Stage 1
At the beginning of my study, I did not have a clear research question, and my attention was focused on the general issue of China’s manufacturing transformation. Under Sasha’s guidance, I gradually focused on the importance of technological upgrading for the transformation of the manufacturing industry. Moreover, I did some related reading and research at that time.
Stage 2
The most important change came from Zuleika’s tutorials. With her encouragement, I retrieved the concept of bio-synthetic fur (a research topic I initially provided in my master’s application proposal). I have to admit that, unlike the usual approach of identifying a problem and then solving it, my project was more like tracing the problem back to the significance of the new concept. The bio-synthetic fur is both a refinement of my previous research question on technology enhancement and a more realistic and attractive research direction for me personally. Then, following Zuleika’s advice, I have written 20 versions of the research question:
Eventually, my first edition of research question is confirmed, How can reduce environment and animal influence for future fur products?
Stage 3
With guidance from George, I was able to optimise the question finally to How can we reduce the impact of future fur products on animals and environment? On the one hand this is a more grammatically sound formulation, and on the other hand added word, WE, can make the issue more relatable to the audience.