research methodology what to write

What is Research Methodology? Definition, Types, and Examples

Research methodology 1,2 is a structured and scientific approach used to collect, analyze, and interpret quantitative or qualitative data to answer research questions or test hypotheses. A research methodology is like a plan for carrying out research and helps keep researchers on track by limiting the scope of the research. Several aspects must be considered before selecting an appropriate research methodology, such as research limitations and ethical concerns that may affect your research.

The research methodology section in a scientific paper describes the different methodological choices made, such as the data collection and analysis methods, and why these choices were selected. The reasons should explain why the methods chosen are the most appropriate to answer the research question. A good research methodology also helps ensure the reliability and validity of the research findings. There are three types of research methodology—quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method, which can be chosen based on the research objectives.

What is research methodology ?

A research methodology describes the techniques and procedures used to identify and analyze information regarding a specific research topic. It is a process by which researchers design their study so that they can achieve their objectives using the selected research instruments. It includes all the important aspects of research, including research design, data collection methods, data analysis methods, and the overall framework within which the research is conducted. While these points can help you understand what is research methodology, you also need to know why it is important to pick the right methodology.

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Having a good research methodology in place has the following advantages: 3

Helps other researchers who may want to replicate your research; the explanations will be of benefit to them.
You can easily answer any questions about your research if they arise at a later stage.
A research methodology provides a framework and guidelines for researchers to clearly define research questions, hypotheses, and objectives.
It helps researchers identify the most appropriate research design, sampling technique, and data collection and analysis methods.
A sound research methodology helps researchers ensure that their findings are valid and reliable and free from biases and errors.
It also helps ensure that ethical guidelines are followed while conducting research.
A good research methodology helps researchers in planning their research efficiently, by ensuring optimum usage of their time and resources.

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Types of research methodology.

There are three types of research methodology based on the type of research and the data required. 1

Quantitative research methodology focuses on measuring and testing numerical data. This approach is good for reaching a large number of people in a short amount of time. This type of research helps in testing the causal relationships between variables, making predictions, and generalizing results to wider populations.
Qualitative research methodology examines the opinions, behaviors, and experiences of people. It collects and analyzes words and textual data. This research methodology requires fewer participants but is still more time consuming because the time spent per participant is quite large. This method is used in exploratory research where the research problem being investigated is not clearly defined.
Mixed-method research methodology uses the characteristics of both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies in the same study. This method allows researchers to validate their findings, verify if the results observed using both methods are complementary, and explain any unexpected results obtained from one method by using the other method.

What are the types of sampling designs in research methodology?

Sampling 4 is an important part of a research methodology and involves selecting a representative sample of the population to conduct the study, making statistical inferences about them, and estimating the characteristics of the whole population based on these inferences. There are two types of sampling designs in research methodology—probability and nonprobability.

Probability sampling

In this type of sampling design, a sample is chosen from a larger population using some form of random selection, that is, every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. The different types of probability sampling are:

Systematic —sample members are chosen at regular intervals. It requires selecting a starting point for the sample and sample size determination that can be repeated at regular intervals. This type of sampling method has a predefined range; hence, it is the least time consuming.
Stratified —researchers divide the population into smaller groups that don’t overlap but represent the entire population. While sampling, these groups can be organized, and then a sample can be drawn from each group separately.
Cluster —the population is divided into clusters based on demographic parameters like age, sex, location, etc.
Convenience —selects participants who are most easily accessible to researchers due to geographical proximity, availability at a particular time, etc.
Purposive —participants are selected at the researcher’s discretion. Researchers consider the purpose of the study and the understanding of the target audience.
Snowball —already selected participants use their social networks to refer the researcher to other potential participants.
Quota —while designing the study, the researchers decide how many people with which characteristics to include as participants. The characteristics help in choosing people most likely to provide insights into the subject.

What are data collection methods?

During research, data are collected using various methods depending on the research methodology being followed and the research methods being undertaken. Both qualitative and quantitative research have different data collection methods, as listed below.

Qualitative research 5

One-on-one interviews: Helps the interviewers understand a respondent’s subjective opinion and experience pertaining to a specific topic or event
Document study/literature review/record keeping: Researchers’ review of already existing written materials such as archives, annual reports, research articles, guidelines, policy documents, etc.
Focus groups: Constructive discussions that usually include a small sample of about 6-10 people and a moderator, to understand the participants’ opinion on a given topic.
Qualitative observation : Researchers collect data using their five senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing).

Quantitative research 6

Sampling: The most common type is probability sampling.
Interviews: Commonly telephonic or done in-person.
Observations: Structured observations are most commonly used in quantitative research. In this method, researchers make observations about specific behaviors of individuals in a structured setting.
Document review: Reviewing existing research or documents to collect evidence for supporting the research.
Surveys and questionnaires. Surveys can be administered both online and offline depending on the requirement and sample size.

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What are data analysis methods.

The data collected using the various methods for qualitative and quantitative research need to be analyzed to generate meaningful conclusions. These data analysis methods 7 also differ between quantitative and qualitative research.

Quantitative research involves a deductive method for data analysis where hypotheses are developed at the beginning of the research and precise measurement is required. The methods include statistical analysis applications to analyze numerical data and are grouped into two categories—descriptive and inferential.

Descriptive analysis is used to describe the basic features of different types of data to present it in a way that ensures the patterns become meaningful. The different types of descriptive analysis methods are:

Measures of frequency (count, percent, frequency)
Measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode)
Measures of dispersion or variation (range, variance, standard deviation)
Measure of position (percentile ranks, quartile ranks)

Inferential analysis is used to make predictions about a larger population based on the analysis of the data collected from a smaller population. This analysis is used to study the relationships between different variables. Some commonly used inferential data analysis methods are:

Correlation: To understand the relationship between two or more variables.
Cross-tabulation: Analyze the relationship between multiple variables.
Regression analysis: Study the impact of independent variables on the dependent variable.
Frequency tables: To understand the frequency of data.
Analysis of variance: To test the degree to which two or more variables differ in an experiment.

Qualitative research involves an inductive method for data analysis where hypotheses are developed after data collection. The methods include:

Content analysis: For analyzing documented information from text and images by determining the presence of certain words or concepts in texts.
Narrative analysis: For analyzing content obtained from sources such as interviews, field observations, and surveys. The stories and opinions shared by people are used to answer research questions.
Discourse analysis: For analyzing interactions with people considering the social context, that is, the lifestyle and environment, under which the interaction occurs.
Grounded theory: Involves hypothesis creation by data collection and analysis to explain why a phenomenon occurred.
Thematic analysis: To identify important themes or patterns in data and use these to address an issue.

How to choose a research methodology?

Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a research methodology: 8

Research objectives, aims, and questions —these would help structure the research design.
Review existing literature to identify any gaps in knowledge.
Check the statistical requirements —if data-driven or statistical results are needed then quantitative research is the best. If the research questions can be answered based on people’s opinions and perceptions, then qualitative research is most suitable.
Sample size —sample size can often determine the feasibility of a research methodology. For a large sample, less effort- and time-intensive methods are appropriate.
Constraints —constraints of time, geography, and resources can help define the appropriate methodology.

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How to write a research methodology .

A research methodology should include the following components: 3,9

Research design —should be selected based on the research question and the data required. Common research designs include experimental, quasi-experimental, correlational, descriptive, and exploratory.
Research method —this can be quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-method.
Reason for selecting a specific methodology —explain why this methodology is the most suitable to answer your research problem.
Research instruments —explain the research instruments you plan to use, mainly referring to the data collection methods such as interviews, surveys, etc. Here as well, a reason should be mentioned for selecting the particular instrument.
Sampling —this involves selecting a representative subset of the population being studied.
Data collection —involves gathering data using several data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, etc.
Data analysis —describe the data analysis methods you will use once you’ve collected the data.
Research limitations —mention any limitations you foresee while conducting your research.
Validity and reliability —validity helps identify the accuracy and truthfulness of the findings; reliability refers to the consistency and stability of the results over time and across different conditions.
Ethical considerations —research should be conducted ethically. The considerations include obtaining consent from participants, maintaining confidentiality, and addressing conflicts of interest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are the key components of research methodology?

A1. A good research methodology has the following key components:

Research design
Data collection procedures
Data analysis methods
Ethical considerations

Q2. Why is ethical consideration important in research methodology?

A2. Ethical consideration is important in research methodology to ensure the readers of the reliability and validity of the study. Researchers must clearly mention the ethical norms and standards followed during the conduct of the research and also mention if the research has been cleared by any institutional board. The following 10 points are the important principles related to ethical considerations: 10

Participants should not be subjected to harm.
Respect for the dignity of participants should be prioritized.
Full consent should be obtained from participants before the study.
Participants’ privacy should be ensured.
Confidentiality of the research data should be ensured.
Anonymity of individuals and organizations participating in the research should be maintained.
The aims and objectives of the research should not be exaggerated.
Affiliations, sources of funding, and any possible conflicts of interest should be declared.
Communication in relation to the research should be honest and transparent.
Misleading information and biased representation of primary data findings should be avoided.

Q3. What is the difference between methodology and method?

A3. Research methodology is different from a research method, although both terms are often confused. Research methods are the tools used to gather data, while the research methodology provides a framework for how research is planned, conducted, and analyzed. The latter guides researchers in making decisions about the most appropriate methods for their research. Research methods refer to the specific techniques, procedures, and tools used by researchers to collect, analyze, and interpret data, for instance surveys, questionnaires, interviews, etc.

Research methodology is, thus, an integral part of a research study. It helps ensure that you stay on track to meet your research objectives and answer your research questions using the most appropriate data collection and analysis tools based on your research design.

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Research methodologies. Pfeiffer Library website. Accessed August 15, 2023. https://library.tiffin.edu/researchmethodologies/whatareresearchmethodologies
Types of research methodology. Eduvoice website. Accessed August 16, 2023. https://eduvoice.in/types-research-methodology/
The basics of research methodology: A key to quality research. Voxco. Accessed August 16, 2023. https://www.voxco.com/blog/what-is-research-methodology/
Sampling methods: Types with examples. QuestionPro website. Accessed August 16, 2023. https://www.questionpro.com/blog/types-of-sampling-for-social-research/
What is qualitative research? Methods, types, approaches, examples. Researcher.Life blog. Accessed August 15, 2023. https://researcher.life/blog/article/what-is-qualitative-research-methods-types-examples/
What is quantitative research? Definition, methods, types, and examples. Researcher.Life blog. Accessed August 15, 2023. https://researcher.life/blog/article/what-is-quantitative-research-types-and-examples/
Data analysis in research: Types & methods. QuestionPro website. Accessed August 16, 2023. https://www.questionpro.com/blog/data-analysis-in-research/#Data_analysis_in_qualitative_research
Factors to consider while choosing the right research methodology. PhD Monster website. Accessed August 17, 2023. https://www.phdmonster.com/factors-to-consider-while-choosing-the-right-research-methodology/
What is research methodology? Research and writing guides. Accessed August 14, 2023. https://paperpile.com/g/what-is-research-methodology/
Ethical considerations. Business research methodology website. Accessed August 17, 2023. https://research-methodology.net/research-methodology/ethical-considerations/

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Home » Dissertation Methodology – Structure, Example and Writing Guide

Dissertation Methodology – Structure, Example and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Dissertation Methodology

The methodology section of a dissertation explains the approach, design, and methods you used to conduct your research. This section is critical for demonstrating the rigor and credibility of your study and allows readers to evaluate the reliability and validity of your findings. The methodology should be clear, detailed, and justified, ensuring that anyone reading it understands how and why the research was conducted.

Purpose of a Dissertation Methodology

The methodology section serves several essential purposes:

Justifies the Research Approach : Explains why specific research methods were chosen and how they align with the research question.
Describes Data Collection and Analysis : Details the tools, techniques, and procedures used to gather and analyze data.
Ensures Replicability : Provides enough detail for other researchers to replicate or build on the study.
Addresses Limitations : Identifies any limitations or constraints of the chosen methodology and their potential impact on results.

Structure of a Dissertation Methodology

A well-organized methodology section is usually structured into five main components: Research Design , Participants/Sampling , Data Collection Methods , Data Analysis , and Ethical Considerations . Some dissertations may include additional sections as needed for specific methods or fields of study.

1. Research Design

Definition : The research design is the overall strategy and framework guiding the study. It outlines whether the research is qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods and justifies this choice in relation to the research question.

Example : If studying consumer behavior, a quantitative survey might be appropriate to gather statistical data, while qualitative interviews could provide in-depth insights into motivations.

Typical Components :

Approach : Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods.
Research Type : Experimental, observational, survey-based, case study, etc.
Justification : Explanation of why this design aligns with the research objectives.

2. Participants and Sampling

Definition : This section describes the study population, how participants were chosen, and the sample size. It should include the criteria for inclusion and exclusion, as well as details about recruitment procedures.

Example : For a study on workplace satisfaction, you might select employees from various departments in a company and use a sample size calculated based on statistical power analysis.

Target Population : The demographic characteristics and scope of the population studied.
Sampling Method : Probability or non-probability sampling (e.g., random sampling, convenience sampling).
Sample Size : The number of participants included and justification for this number.

3. Data Collection Methods

Definition : This section describes how data was collected, detailing the tools and techniques used. It should include specifics on instruments (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments), how they were administered, and why these methods are appropriate for the study.

Example : In a study examining consumer satisfaction, data collection could involve an online survey with closed-ended questions to quantify satisfaction levels.

Tools/Procedures : Description of instruments, procedures, and protocols.
Type of Data Collected : Qualitative (e.g., interviews, focus groups) or quantitative (e.g., surveys, experiments).
Rationale : Explanation of why these data collection methods were chosen.

4. Data Analysis

Definition : Data analysis involves explaining the methods and techniques used to interpret the collected data. This includes any statistical or thematic analysis methods applied, as well as software used.

Example : For quantitative data, you might use software like SPSS or R for statistical analysis, while qualitative data could be analyzed using NVivo to identify key themes.

Techniques : Statistical tests for quantitative data (e.g., t-tests, regression analysis) or coding for qualitative data.
Software : Mention any software used, such as SPSS, R, or NVivo.
Justification : Explanation of why these analysis methods are appropriate for the research question and data.

5. Ethical Considerations

Definition : Ethical considerations involve addressing any ethical issues related to the study, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and participant welfare.

Example : In a study involving human subjects, ethical considerations might include obtaining informed consent and ensuring data anonymity.

Informed Consent : Description of how participants were informed about the study and consent obtained.
Confidentiality : Explanation of measures taken to protect participants’ privacy.
Risk Mitigation : Any procedures in place to protect participants from harm.

Example of a Dissertation Methodology

Here is a sample methodology for a hypothetical dissertation examining the impact of online learning on student engagement.

Title : The Impact of Online Learning Platforms on Student Engagement in Higher Education

This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to obtain a comprehensive understanding of student engagement in online learning. The quantitative component provides generalizable data, while the qualitative component offers in-depth insights.
Participants include 300 undergraduate students enrolled in online courses at three universities. A random sampling method was used to ensure a representative sample across different disciplines.
Data collection involved an online survey with closed-ended questions on engagement, followed by semi-structured interviews with a subset of 20 students to explore their experiences more deeply.
Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis in SPSS to assess relationships between variables. Qualitative data were coded and thematically analyzed using NVivo to identify key themes.
Ethical approval was obtained from each institution’s review board. Participants were informed of the study’s purpose, and informed consent was obtained. All responses were anonymized to ensure confidentiality.

Writing Guide for Dissertation Methodology

Step 1: choose the research design and justify it.

Begin by identifying the research design that best suits your research question. Justify your choice based on how it aligns with the study’s objectives and the type of data needed.

Example : For a dissertation on the effects of diet on physical health, a longitudinal study might be chosen to observe changes over time, with justification based on the need to monitor long-term health outcomes.

Step 2: Describe the Sampling Process

Explain the target population, sampling method, and sample size. Justify your choices by explaining how they ensure the data will be representative and reliable.

Example : A study on employee motivation might choose a random sampling method to prevent bias, ensuring that findings can be generalized to a broader workforce.

Step 3: Outline Data Collection Methods

Provide a detailed description of how data was collected, including any instruments, techniques, and procedures. Explain why these methods are appropriate for capturing the data needed to answer the research question.

Example : If measuring customer satisfaction, an online survey may be selected due to its efficiency and reach, and its questions might be chosen to quantify specific satisfaction dimensions.

Step 4: Explain Data Analysis Procedures

Describe how you analyzed the data and justify the chosen techniques. Include information on any software used and specific statistical or thematic analysis methods applied.

Example : For a quantitative study, you might perform regression analysis to explore relationships between variables. In qualitative studies, you might use thematic coding to identify patterns.

Step 5: Address Ethical Considerations

Identify any ethical issues related to your study and describe how you addressed them. Ethical considerations are crucial for studies involving human subjects, as they help protect participant rights.

Example : For a study involving interviews, explain how participants were assured of confidentiality and provided with the option to withdraw at any time.

Tips for Writing an Effective Methodology

Be Clear and Detailed : Provide enough detail so that another researcher could replicate the study based on your description.
Use Justification for Every Choice : Explain why each methodological choice is suitable for your research objectives.
Stay Objective and Neutral : Avoid using personal opinions or biases; focus on describing your research design and methods factually.
Organize Logically : Follow a logical flow, usually beginning with research design, followed by sampling, data collection, data analysis, and ethical considerations.
Keep It Concise but Comprehensive : Avoid unnecessary detail, but ensure you cover all relevant information needed to understand your methodology.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Vagueness : Avoid vague language and provide specific details for each section.
Lack of Justification : Justify all choices, from sampling methods to analytical techniques, to demonstrate thoughtfulness and rigor.
Overcomplicating Language : Use clear, straightforward language rather than overly technical jargon to improve readability.
Ignoring Limitations : Acknowledge any limitations in your methodology and discuss how they may impact the results.

The methodology section is a vital part of a dissertation, outlining the design, participants, data collection, data analysis, and ethical considerations. By following a structured approach, providing justifications for each choice, and ensuring clarity, you can write a robust methodology that supports the credibility and reliability of your research. A well-written methodology allows readers to evaluate the validity of your study and serves as a foundation for replicating or expanding upon your work.

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Flick, U. (2018). An Introduction to Qualitative Research (6th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Silverman, D. (2016). Qualitative Research (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Yin, R. K. (2017). Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods (6th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2016). Research Methods for Business Students (7th ed.). Pearson.