Tips in Writing Methodology Flashcards
Definition of Methodology
“A philosophical stance of worldview that underlies and informs style of research” (Sapsford, 2006, p.175)
The way we go about discovering knowledge in a systematic way
Refers to epistemologies that guide data gathering
Appropriate methodology is driven by one’s ontological and epistemological beliefs
Methodology vs. Method
Methodology: Philosophical stance (how you see the world); justification for the choice of method
Methods: Means by which you attempt to answer the question
Typical Contents of Methodology
Research design
Location of the Study
Samples & Sampling
Variables
Research Instrument
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Research Design
Overall strategy to integrate different components of the study
Types: Case study, Descriptive, Experimental, Exploratory, Mixed method
Location of the Study
Describe the geographic location and justify the choice of the study site
Samples & Sampling
Describes the source and number of subjects used in the research
Steps in Sample Design: Type of universe, Sampling unit, Source list, Size of sample, Parameters of interest, Budgetary constraint, Sampling procedure
Variables
Independent variable: Variable the researcher measures (the cause)
Dependent variable: The effect (or assumed effect)
Research Instrument
Tools for data collection: measurement devices such as surveys, tests, questionnaires, etc.
Usability, Validity & Reliability
Usability: Ease of administration and interpretation
Validity: Extent to which an instrument measures what it is supposed to measure
Reliability: Consistency of the instrument
Data Collection
Description of how data collection will be done
Example: Steps to contact research participants and administer instruments
Data Analysis
Process of transforming raw data into usable information
Qualitative vs. Quantitative analysis
Common Mistakes in Proposal Writing
Failure to provide context, delimit boundaries, cite landmark studies, stay focused, etc.
