Methodology
The third chapter of the project is the Methodology section, while not the easiest to formulate, is probably the easiest to write. There are specific elements that must be reported, so this chapter is a bit more an exercise of fill-in-the-blanks than the other chapters. The methodology must be described in total, complete, absolute detail so that another researcher could replicate the Study exactly based on the information contained in this chapter.
This chapter should begin with a description of the General Nature and Design of the Study. The type of research should be identified, e.g., experimental, quasi-experimental, exploratory, qualitative, developmental, survey, etc. If the type of research calls for the use of independent and dependent variables, they should be identified. The initial paragraphs of this chapter should be thought of as an introduction to the methodology. Any other significant information that would help orient the Reader to the general approach could be included here.
The Selection of Participants should describe exactly how subjects were obtained and assigned to groups (if the design calls for groups). The Procedures are reported. Copies of any written materials or any verbal instructions given the subjects should be included in the Appendixes. If the Research Setting is significant, it is also reported.
The Description of the Instruments is crucial. The general format, the purpose, and the relevant history of the development of each instrument must be described. A complete review of the technical data is required so that the reader can form an opinion about their quality and appropriateness. Typically there are a number of validity and reliability studies performed by the authors and by other users of the test. The type of validity (concurrent, predictive etc.) and validity coefficients are reported including the citation of the study. The same holds true for reliability (types, coefficients, and sources). If any modifications are made” these must be explained and justified. Copies of instruments are generally included in the Appendixes as well.
The Research Hypotheses or Questions are also stated here. This is what the study tests or answers. If hypotheses are being tested, the null form need not be used. If a logical argument has been made that the findings will turn out a certain way, then that is what’ should be stated in the hypotheses section.
The method of the Data Analysis is also explained. It is helpful to consider the Imaginary Reader and what the imaginary reader would ask about the data analysis. If the imaginary reader is expected to have a graduate education, then the reader can be expected to have an understanding of statistical procedures.
