Academic Skills and Research Concepts Flashcards
Understanding the importance of Research Questions - Exam specific
- What is the assessment asking you to do, how is it embedded in the modules and how does it engage with learning outcomes.
- What is the actual question asking you to do and not do
Deductive Research Approaches
Start with a theory, and by using observations & testing hypothesis, develops a result to prove/disprove the theory to then create conclusion
Using feedback effectively
Feedback is designed to be an ongoing process that allows you to develop and train in how to improve
- Looking back and critically reflecting on what you have done before and what you can do differently is how to improve
Structure
The social and political context in which the object we are studying is set
- It’s a concept of order
- Describes an exertion of control perhaps over peoples lives of political issues
- Can manifest itself as institutions, practices, norms, political conventions etc.
Critical Analysis
Asking why and how people claim said points and why are they relevant to your point
- Well-reasoned argument based on evidence
- The unpacking of the how, what and why of other arguments to repack them through your own argument as well as analysis the link between this literature and your argument
Correlation
That there exists a non-causal relationship between two variables, both A and B change but one hasn’t caused another
Understanding the importance of Research Questions
Understanding what can be asked and established, and that what we ask shapes the direction and output of research, and also understanding the limits to our own research abilities and of the data and evidence available
Referencing
Accurate info and source material is the very basis of good research and therefore the prevention of mistakes and political failures
Agency
The ability to act or chose to do something, do what you want or intend to do without constraint, based on a sense of awareness of available choices
Engagement with evidence/literature
Demonstrating a wider contextual understanding of the topics, references and importantly the use and analysis of them
Inductive Research Approaches
Starts with an observation, then creates a broad generalisation to then create a theory
Data Analysis
What is the basis of your argument claim, does it have sufficient evidence
Data Analysis and Policymaking
Data can be used for policymaking, to create social restrictions and response to a crisis e.g. Covid Lockdowns, and can be manipulated for alternative means
Causation
The establishment of a direct casual relationship between two variables, A causes B
Critical Reflection
Have you done what you set out to do with your own argument, is it clear and understandable, have you done what you said you would in the intro
Structure and Agency general
Labels and conceptual tools that we use to explain and understand the world
Time Management
Planning- how long will research take, how long will writing take, other commitments
