This paper will briefly discuss the technique of writing methodology, a central component of dissertation material. The key to methodology is accurate data support and a rigorous research process and answers to relevant questions. Unlike a general account, a methodology requires a concise and clear description of the research process, and the use of clear logic to make a point rather than a lengthy description. In the specific writing, it can be learnt and imitated by referring to the published excellent papers of the same kind.
According to the basic format, the methodology includes the following four major parts:
① Data source (e.g., observation or test used in quantitative research);
② Means of acquisition (how the data were collected or gathered);
③ Provenance or source (the data source or search path used);
(iv) Analytical process (how the data were analysed and processed to draw conclusions). For these sections, a step-by-step presentation should be made:
Step 1: Provide insight into the background and purpose of your research;
Step 2: Identify the main components of the methodology; these include the research design, data collection, and data analysis methods;
Step 3: Discuss each of these steps in detail. For example, in the research design section, you must outline the specific methodology you used and compare the strengths and weaknesses of citing others’ methodologies; in the data collection section, you need to discuss why you used the method, how it was collected and whether it is suitable for your particular research needs;
Step 4: Provide a succinct summary of the above, reviewing the key points and using this as an introduction to start a new chapter.
Another reminder of the following points:
1. Quantitative research focuses on objective truth and is dominated by the language of mathematics, which typically involves the construction of mathematical models to study quantitative relationships and changes following from statistical data. Qualitative research, on the other hand, focuses on subjective recommendations and personal insights, and the methodology usually involves synthesising a large amount of textual data and relying on subjective understanding and value judgements to carry out the analysis. I suggest focusing on one or the other.
2. When mentioning its strengths and weaknesses, it should be compared with other methods, but avoid going into too much detail, and should be put into the literature review section as much as possible.
(Note: The above information is for reference only. For actual writing, please adjust the content accordingly to your dissertation topic and research direction.
