Research Methodology
Research methodology is the specific procedures or techniques used to identify, select, process, and analyze information about a topic.
In a research paper, the methodology section allows the reader to critically evaluate a study’s overall validity and reliability.
Questions:
The methodology section answers two main questions:
- How was the data collected or generated?
- How was it analyzed?
(University of the Witwatersrand LibGuides)
Approaches to research design are divided into one of three categories:
Purely qualitative
A qualitative researcher is interested in figuring out why things are the way they are; often a microscopic perspective.
Purely quantitative
A quantitative researcher is interested in relationships –and how they might be generalized –a wider perspective. Researchers usually lean one way or another.
Mixed-methods
A combination of both qualitative and quantitative design.
An increasing number of action researchers are embracing mixed-methods designs. However, it’s worth noting that the distinction between these methods and their contrasting ideas may not always be straightforward. (Duesbery & Twyman, 2020)
Flash Cards
Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches
While conducting action research, it’s crucial to remember that the primary aim of the action plan is to solve the specific problem you’re studying. Traditionally, action research involves in-depth and often prolonged engagement with a particular situation. (Mertler, 2020).
In your case, the focus of your action research is likely your students, and your research question pertains specifically to them, rather than addressing broader topics like teaching or learning in a general sense. Your main concern isn’t about generalizing your findings beyond your specific context. However, this doesn’t mean that your research won’t have value for others outside your specific situation.
Therefore, your research design and approach would typically fall within the realm of qualitative research methods. Nevertheless, since you may have quantitative data at your disposal, it’s possible to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative approaches to address your practical, localized issue, which is known as a mixed-methods design.
Examples of Research Designs in Action Research
Presentation
Research Design in Action Research
Additional Resources
- Action Research Part 2: Now What?
Run Time: 07:50 minutes - Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research: The Differences Explained | Scribbr
Run Time: 03:37 minutes - Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Run Time: 04:30 minutes
