Methodology + Critical Analysis Lecture

• every dissertation has to evidence methodology
• critical analysis + methodology = 40% 

Methodology = a logical, structured way of organising a research project & gathering necessary information. Evidence you have reflected critically on various research methods & the chosen ones that are most appropriate for your particular research project. 

• Methodology is unique to each project!
• Palgrave study skills >> quantitative/qualitative research study skills 

Methodology may include: 

• literature review (libraries/journals/internet) 
• a particular theoretical approach
• Questionnaires - sample size, reliability & validity 
• Interviews - structured or unstructured? Bias? 

Outline your methodology at the start of the dissertation. 

Introduction: contextualise your question in around 500 words. Clarify what you're doing. 

Critical Analysis 

• reasoned thinking - stepping away & using evidence and logic to come to your conclusions 
• try to consider different points of views

Argument

• what do I want to say? 
• have I got the evidence to back it up? (contradict) 
• could you find more? is it necessary? 
• have I relied on one source?  

Triangulation - pitting alternative theories against the same body of data