Methods In Context

Question 1

Methods in context in a nutshell:

Answer 1

Education is a unique setting for research and includes specific elements that may change the way in which research is conducted. This will all depend on the theme, the method and the topic involved.

Question 2

Themes:

Answer 2

• Exam questions on ‘Methods in Context’ always refer to at least one theme. You need to be able to write about a specific research method in relation to that theme. The five main themes are:
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• Pupils (vulnerable group, may have difficulty understanding questions, influenced by peers)
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• Teachers (want to look professional, and are often busy)
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• Parents (hard to contact, have different levels of education themselves, want to appear as good parents)
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• Schools (large, protected environment)
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• Classrooms (small, protected environment)

Question 3

Topics:

Answer 3

• Exam questions on ‘Methods in Context’ always refer to at least one topic. You need to be able to write about a specific research method in relation to that topic. Common topics include:
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• Gender/ethnic/class differences in achievement
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• Parents’ attitudes towards school
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• Completion of homework
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• Labelling in classrooms