This paper focuses on one of the foundational elements of academic research, namely research methodology (methodology).
Research methodology is a precise outline of the theoretical framework on which research is based prior to conducting academic research. The importance of research methodology is that it has a decisive impact on the quality of academic results. In this paper, we will discuss the types of research methodology and how to choose the appropriate research methodology.
I. Overview and Classification of Research Methods
Research methods mainly include four parts: the method of data collection, the source of data, the method of analysing data and past research experience. Common research methods can be classified into the following categories: qualitative research, quantitative research, mixed research and so on. In addition, there are many variant versions of research methods, such as qualitative research, quasi-structured interview method, systematic observation method, and so on, depending on the nature of the research, its purpose, and the object of implementation.
Second, how to choose a suitable research method?
When choosing a research method, shou first need to clarify their research objectives and core questions. Secondly, the research design level needs to take into account the nature of one’s research, such as favouring theoretical analyses or empirical research focusing on practicality, as well as whether to emphasize statistical analyses of quantitative results or textual analyses of qualitative interpretations. In addition, studying past research results can help us determine which research methods have been widely used in similar research areas.
C. Application of Research Methods Case Analysis
To assemble the commonly used survey-type research methods, for example, we usually need to describe in detail when, where, and in what way the data were obtained. For experimental research, we need to describe in detail the tools, techniques and processes used to obtain samples. For secondary data type of research, it is even more important to give a clear account of the channels used to obtain the data and how the required portion was filtered out. This clear description is very important for the later analyses and discussions.
IV. Advantages, disadvantages and limitations of research methods
Any research method has its unique strengths and limitations. For example, qualitative research can provide a deeper understanding of the perspectives of individuals, QUN bodies and societies, but the authenticity of the data is difficult to pledge; quantitative research can make statistical inferences through data analysis, but when confronted with a complex phenomenon, it may not be able to get a precisely explanation. Therefore, when applying various research methods, we must fully recognise their advantages and disadvantages and weigh the pros and cons in order to arrive at a more objective and reasonable conclusion.
V. How to evaluate research methods in the literature?
Evaluating research methods in the literature needs to be considered from multiple perspectives, such as the timeline of research history, the practical application in the real world, and the shortcomings of previous research. In addition, the various theoretical perspectives presented in the literature and their practical effects should be carefully analysed.
VI. Conclusion
In conclusion, research methodology is the foundation of academic research, and proper research methodology can make it easier and more accurate to grasp the essence of academic problems and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of research. Therefore, school students should pay attention to the study of research methods XI at the beginning stage, fully grasp various research methods and improve their research ability.
