Methodology
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY
How to Write Your Research Methodology
Once you have identified a research problem that you wish to investigate, then the question that should come to your mind is: HOW am I going to conduct my research so that I can resolve the problem? You should also ask WHY you want to make the investigation. What is the theoretical basis for investigating the research problem? You need to plan a research design and a roadmap so that you can proceed with your study scientifically. The most important section of your research design is the methodology. As a researcher, you need to distinguish between methodology and method. Methodology refers to the theoretical analysis of your research while method refers to a systematic and orderly arrangement and measurement of your research.
Different studies require different methodologies. For example, in a research on human feelings, the methodology used might be Triangulation, i.e. a mixture of qualitative, quantitative, and descriptive studies. The method described in such a study would refer to the research design, population sample, test instrument, the determination of validity and reliability of results and so on
Some Useful Points When Formulating Your Research Methodology:
1. Choose your methodology based on the type of research you are conducting.
2. Institute a clear affiliation between your study and your methodology.
3. Ask yourself whether this methodology will facilitate finding answers to your research questions.
4. Provide meaningful reasons for choosing your methodology e.g. following the footsteps of previous researchers in related studies.
5. Make sure your method includes research design, sample population, test instrument, validity, reliability and implementation phases.
As evident from the above discussion, there are many types of research methodologies when conducting a scholarly investigation. Here I will explain the commonly used methods in social science. When conducting a research, two issues must be considered: Firstly, counting and measuring (Quantitative) and secondly, discussion (Qualitative) with people. These two methods of doing research form a vital pillar in social science research (Stuart, et, al., 2014).