Types of research methods and disciplines

A dissertation is an extended piece of writing based on comprehensive reading and research, written by an academic scholar at an undergraduate, masters or post graduate level. In some cases, a dissertation is referred to an academic research document written at PhD level, while a Thesis may be one which is written by an academic at Masters or Undergraduate level. However the opposite is also true in other cases. However, in British English it is the other way round, a dissertation is usually written for a masters degree and a thesis is written at PhD level.

Etymology

The word ‘dissertation’ was derived from the Latin word dissertātiō which means ‘discourse’ or ‘path’.

Types of Research

There are two types of research which can be done to develop a thesis or dissertation:

Practical Research: The practical approach consists of the empirical study of the topic under research and chiefly consists of hands on approach. This involves first hand research in the form of questionnaires, surveys, interviews, observations and discussion groups.[1]

Theoretical Research: A non empirical approach to research, this usually involves perusal of mostly published works like researching through archives of public libraries, court rooms and published academic journals.[2]

Types of Research

Qualitative

This type of research methods involve describing in details specific situation using research tools like interviews, surveys, and Observations. Qualitative Research is primarily exploratory research. It is used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. It provides insights into the problem or helps to develop ideas or hypotheses for potential quantitative research. Qualitative Research is also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into the problem. Qualitative data collection methods vary using unstructured or semi-structured techniques. Some common methods include focus groups (group discussions), individual interviews, and participation/observations. The sample size is typically small, and respondents are selected to fulfill a given quota.so it is useful for each and every method.

Quantitative

This type of research methods requires quantifiable data involving numerical and statistical explanations. Quantitative Research is used to quantify the problem by way of generating numerical data or data that can be transformed into useable statistics. It is used to quantify attitudes, opinions, behaviors, and other defined variables – and generalize results from a larger sample population. Quantitative Research uses measurable data to formulate facts and uncover patterns in research. Quantitative data collection methhelloys, face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, longitudinal studies, website interceptors, online polls, and systematic observations.

Correlation/Regression Analysis

This research method involves determining the strength of the relationship between two or more variables (e.g. are violent video games correlated with aggression in children).

Meta-Analysis

This research method is useful for finding out the average impact of several different studies on a hypothesis.

Academic Disciplines of Dissertation

A few academic disciplines for which dissertations are written are mentioned below.

The art disciplines

These disciplines consists of different fields of fine arts and liberal arts including painting, music, film, classic literature and music among the most popular ones on which research is conducted. The researcher can use empirical approach to conduct surveys of public opinion; conversely he or she can use the non empirical approach to perform analysis on application and theory of literature, music etc.[3]

The science disciplines

The scientific disciplines of medicine, mechanics, physics, and cellular biology are just a few sciences on which researchers use the empirical modes to perform first hand research both in the field as well as in the laboratory. The applications of these areas of sciences are endless and apt for students who prefer to spend time in labs.

The discipline of philosophy

The discipline of philosophy does not have much application in the practical field, yet a person can create a theoretical dissertation based on analytical thinking, metaphysical interpretation and several hours of readings.

The discipline of history

The opportunities for a dissertation in this subject are spread far and wide. A student can create a dissertation through the theoretical approach of compiling data from archives, public courthouses and from societies of history. For a more practical approach, a student can participate in archaeological expeditions or interview participants of past battles. The possibilities for this area in dissertation writing are endless.

The disciplines of humanities

The study of this area might start with researching in the library, but its practical applications are not limited to it. A student has the opportunity to go out in the field and observe the different cultures and societies, interview people and compile case studies from real life experiences.

Further reading

See also

References

  1. ↑ Empirical
  2. ↑ http://www.underacademy.org/distinguishing-between-the-types-of-research-papers-and-their-components
  3. ↑ http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/different-types-of-dissertation.html

External links

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