A dissertation, also called thesis, is a long-term research project which seeks to answer the research question for the topic chosen by the student. While a dissertation may not be compulsory in undergraduate courses, it is imperative while pursuing a Masters course. A Masters dissertation determines the job prospects and opportunities for further studies.
To know more about how a dissertation would be, check our Dissertation example.
The methodology section of a dissertation is the most crucial part which determines the results and conclusion. Writing a research methodology involves explaining the approach and methods you have used to conduct your research and collect data. The process of writing a methodology section in a dissertation involves several steps, which are as follows:
- Understand the requirements: Familiarise yourself with the guidelines provided by your institution or department regarding the structure and content of the methodology section. This will help you ensure that you meet the specific requirements and expectations. To know more about dissertation guidelines, check our study guide.
- State your research objectives: Begin by stating your research objectives. This will help the readers understand the purpose and focus of your study.
- Describe your research approach: Explain the overall approach you have taken in your research. Identify whether it is a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods approach. Justify your choice based on the nature of your research questions and the objectives of your study.
- Describe data collection methods: Explain the specific methods you will use to collect data. This may include surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, or analysis of existing datasets. Discuss the rationale behind selecting these methods and explain how they align with your research objectives.
- Justify your data analysis techniques: Explain the methods you have used to analyse the data you collected. The methods could involve statistical analysis, content analysis, thematic analysis, or other relevant techniques. Justify your choice of analysis methods based on the nature of your research questions and the data collected. Also, weigh the benefits and drawbacks of analysis methods implemented, for example- the advantages and disadvantages of thematic analysis.
- Address potential limitations: Acknowledge and discuss any limitations or constraints that may have impacted your research design or data collection process. This demonstrates your awareness of potential weaknesses in your study and helps establish the credibility of your research.
- Describe any measures to ensure validity and reliability: Explain the steps you have taken to ensure the validity and reliability of your research. This might include using established research instruments, conducting pilot studies, employing multiple researchers for data collection, or using a systematic approach to data analysis. The methods to ensure validity and reliability in quantitative research is different from the validity and reliability in qualitative research.
- Outline the timeline: Provide a timeline that outlines the various stages of your research process, including data collection, analysis, and writing. This helps readers understand the temporal progression of your study.
- Justify your methodology: Provide a strong justification for your chosen methodology. Explain how it aligns with your research questions, contributes to existing knowledge, and addresses potential gaps in the field.
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The methodology section should be coherent and logically structured to make it easier to read. It should also be detailed enough for readers to understand and evaluate the rigor of your research.
