Methods of scientific knowledge in thesis and coursework. What are the research methods in a thesis? Purpose and subject of research
A good example is writing a term paper, where in the introduction you also have to list the methods of conducting research that were used when writing a scientific work.
In this article you will learn the definition of this concept, what types of scientific research methods there are in a thesis, which of them are recommended to be used in projects on certain topics, as well as the features of each method.
What are methods in a thesis?
The research method for the thesis project is the use of worldview principles in relation to cognitive processes.
To put it simply, research methodology is nothing more than a correlation of research data with other fundamental sciences, the main of which is philosophy.
Science uses a huge number of methods. But we will be specifically interested only in what methods are used in the thesis. And all because their choice directly depends on what goals and objectives were set in the work. Based on this, the student will determine the methods of thesis design.
Despite the huge number of methods in science, each will pursue a single goal: to find the truth, a correct understanding and explanation of the current situation, and in rare cases, even try to change it.
Classification
Research methods used in the thesis can be divided into:
- general (theoretical, universal) research methods in the thesis;
- private (empirical or practical) research methods in the thesis.
Let's take a closer look at each group in order to reasonably choose the right method to solve a specific problem.
Theoretical methods
These methods are universal and serve to systematize facts in scientific work.
When writing a thesis, the following methods are mainly used.
Analysis
The most commonly used method used in thesis work.
Methods of analysis in the thesis are designed to decompose the object or phenomenon being described into signs and properties in order to study it more specifically.
Examples include frequent comparisons of different artistic styles, car characteristics of different brands, and writers' styles of expressing thoughts.
Synthesis
In contrast to the previous method, synthesis is intended to combine individual elements (properties, characteristics) into a single whole for a more detailed study.
This research method is quite closely related to the method of analysis, since it is always present as the main element that unites the individual results of the analysis.
Modeling
With the modeling method, the object of study, which exists in reality, is transferred to an artificially created model. This is done in order to more successfully simulate situations and obtain results that would be difficult to achieve in reality.
Analogy
In analogy, a search is made for the similarity of objects and phenomena according to certain characteristics.
Deduction
The deduction method allows you to draw conclusions about certain phenomena and objects based on data on a large number of small (particular) features.
Induction
In contrast to the previous method, the inductive method encourages reasoning from the general picture to specific points.
Generalization
The generalization method is somewhat similar to deduction. Here a general conclusion is also made about objects or phenomena based on many small signs.
Experts distinguish:
- inductive generalization (empirical) – a transition from more specific properties/characteristics of an object/phenomenon to more general ones;
- analytical generalization - a transition from one opinion to another during the thought process, without applying empirical reality.
Classification
The classification method involves dividing an object or phenomenon into groups according to certain characteristics.
The main task of this method is to structure and make information clearer and easier to understand.
They can be classified based on different characteristics. For example, by:
- physical properties (weight, size, volume);
- material (plastic, wood, metal, porcelain);
- genres (sculpture, painting, literature);
- architectural styles.
They can also be classified according to geopolitical factors, chronological and other factors.
Abstraction
This method is based on the specification of a particular property of a phenomenon or object that needs to be studied as part of the study.
The essence of abstraction is to study a specific property of the object or phenomenon being studied, without taking into account all its other characteristics.
The abstraction method is one of the most important and basic research methods in a thesis in the humanities. With its help, the most important patterns in such sciences as pedagogy, psychology, and philosophy, invisible at first glance, were noted.
A good example of abstraction is the division of literature into a huge variety of styles and genres
Formalization
The essence of the formalization method is to convey the structure or essence of a phenomenon or object in a symbolic model through the use of mathematical schemes, formulas, and symbols.
Specification
Analogy
By concretization we mean a detailed study of an object or phenomenon in real-life conditions.
The essence of the analogy method is that, knowing certain properties and characteristics of an object or phenomenon, we can draw a certain line to another object or phenomenon similar to our object of study. As a result, we can come to certain conclusions.
This method is not 100% correct and does not always give reliable results. However, overall its effectiveness is quite high. Most often it is used in cases where certain objects or phenomena cannot be studied directly (for example, when studying terrestrial planets, when determining their properties, conditions for potential settlement by the Earth's population).
Different sciences use completely different research methods. But in any specialty and field of science, at least 2 will always be used in the thesis: synthesis and analytical research method
Practical (private) methods
In the thesis, along with theoretical methods, practical methods are used equally, depending on the object or phenomenon. Their peculiarity lies in a special way of studying information, collecting and processing it, and conducting experiments.
Particular research methods in the thesis are used directly to collect specific data about a phenomenon or object. These methods often help to describe and identify new phenomena and objects, find patterns or prove hypotheses.
Now let's get acquainted with the most popular practical methods when writing a thesis project.
Observation
The observation method in the thesis is based on an objective perception of reality to collect data on the properties and relationships of the objects of study.
The comparison method is considered one of the most popular. It is used to compare two or more research objects based on one characteristic.
Measurement
The measurement method is quite accurate. It is based on determining the numerical values of certain indicators.
Experiment
The experimental method is interpreted as the reproduction of an observation or phenomenon under certain conditions.
An experiment can also serve as an experience, the purpose of which is to verify (refute or confirm) existing provisions. The main thing is that during the study two points should be present: evidence and repeatability. The fact is that the task of an experiment is not only to visually demonstrate or discover some property, but also to be able to reproduce it.
An excellent example of an experiment is Galileo's experiment with a cannonball and a lead ball to determine the speed of fall.Now let's get acquainted with the most popular practical methods when writing a thesis project.
This method opens up any scientific knowledge, which is why it is key when conducting any research.
The essence of the observation method is to observe the object of study and record any important changes or positions (reactions, properties).
Measurement
The measurement method is one of the most effective. We are talking about fixing any physical parameters of the object of study (volume, height, weight, length, etc.) using units of measurement.
The result obtained by applying this method will be recorded in a numerical value.
Modeling
In a general sense, a model is a structured, reduced image of something, an imitation of one or more objects.
Modeling can be:
- objective (when reproducing a separate part of an object);
- symbolic (when using formulas, drawings, diagrams, etc.);
- mental (when performing operations in the virtual world or mentally).
Modeling is indispensable when developing new technologies, designing cars, structures, etc.
Conversation and interview
The essence of both methods is to find a person who has any valuable information about the subject of study.
Many people may not see the difference between a conversation and an interview. The latter is distinguished by a more structured and regulated procedure: during the interview, the interlocutor answers clearly posed questions that were prepared in advance. In addition, the person asking the questions does not demonstrate his opinion in any way.
The conversation is casual in nature. Here both participants in the conversation can freely express their opinions and ask questions, even spontaneously
Survey and questionnaire
These methods also have much in common with each other. The essence of both lies in the preliminary preparation of questions to which answers should be obtained. As a rule, respondents are given several answer options to choose from.
The main difference between a survey and a questionnaire is the form of conducting it. The survey, as a rule, can be oral or written. But surveying is possible only in written form or on a computer medium. Often during a survey, the answer can be given in graphical form.
The advantage of these practical methods in the diploma is the large audience coverage. And if many people are surveyed, then the chances of getting more accurate data are much higher.
Description
Experts note the similarity of the description method with the observation method. When conducting research using the descriptive method, not only behavior and phenomena are recorded, but also the appearance and characteristics of the object of study.
Other private methods
Depending on the direction of the student’s specialization, the following private, highly specialized research methods can be used:
- Economy . Analysis: positive, normative, functional, static, dynamic. Economic and mathematical modeling. Method of financial ratios. Scenario method for forecasting economic phenomena. Method of unity of historical and logical. Construction of economic hypotheses. The “other things being equal” method.
- Pedagogy/Psychology . Studying the products of students' creativity. Interview. Conversation. Study of group differentiation. Participant observation. Pedagogical control tests (testing). Questionnaire (survey). Ranging. Scaling. Registration.
- Philology . Analysis: compositional, discourse, motive, intertextual, distributional, contextual, semantic. Linguistic experiment. Biographical method. Content analysis. Lexicographic statistics. Differential analysis of oppositions. Narrative method. Dichotomy. Transformational synthesis and analysis. "Concrete Literary Studies". Semiotic method.
Other methodology
Academician A.Ya. Flier identified a slightly different system of methods used in writing dissertations. In his opinion, all methods are divided into humanitarian and social-scientific.
Humanitarian methodologies
- Historical- describes the history of culture in accordance with the principle of building a linear chronological sequence of its events and phenomena.
- Hermeneutic- explores culture by revealing (deciphering) the original meanings of cultural phenomena inherent in them during creation.
- Phenomenological- interprets the historical facts of culture from the point of view of their appearance to the observer and seeks in them meanings that are relevant outside the historical context.
- Historical-psychological- studies the historical dynamics of culture from the point of view of identifying stable stage (civilizational) types of socially conditioned consciousness and mental state in it.
- Cultural symbolism and poststructuralism- an eclectic methodology that interprets the material within a contextual framework established for various reasons by the authors of the studies themselves, and treats it as inevitably incomplete in its symbolic and semantic cognition.
Social scientific methodologies
- Evolutionism is a study of the history of culture from the standpoint of recognition of its progressive development through the gradual complication of its structures (branches of evolutionism; formation theory, diffusionism, neo-evolutionism, cultural materialism).
- Cyclic and wave models of cultural dynamics - a description of cultures as separate “self-sufficient organisms” (civilizations) and the processes occurring in them as closed cycles or repeating wave movements.
- Structural functionalism is the interpretation of cultural and historical processes as functional, solving some immanent social problems to satisfy the interests and needs of people.
- Structuralism is a description of cultural and historical objects from the point of view of searching for the relationship between material and conceptual aspects in them, analysis of the structure of culture as a system of signs.
- Borderline methodologies that define new problem areas of cultural and historical science, postmodernism.
How to write methods in a thesis
Great! Now we know what methods exist. If we're lucky, we even understand what methods we can use in our work.
Standard speech structures when formulating methodology and research methods:
- This work is based on the provisions... methodology,
- the work is based on the provisions... methodology,
- the methodological basis/base of the study was the provisions of ... methodology,
- The following methods were used in the research/work..., research methods are... etc.
Next, it is worth indicating which figures were studying this problem. And in the history of the study, you can mention the historical context, tell what the newest authors managed to add to the existing data. Remember to mention scientists in chronological order!
There are also standard constructions used when describing research methods:
- the study of... dates back to...,
- in ... century ... were studied and described in detail ...,
- problems... dealt with...,
- a huge contribution to the development of the problem... made.../made work/research/work...,
- work is of great importance...
- works of recent years allow us to talk about...,
- the experience of history... shows that...,
- Currently the dominant point of view is...
- This approach is typical for...,
- The study of this issue began with the works..., in the works...,
- a prominent place in the works... occupies the position of...,
- Among the problems being developed in this direction we can name...,
- ……. covered in detail in the works...,
- connection...shown in...etc.
When writing a conclusion, you should focus on describing the structure of work with the following standard structures:
- all of the above determined the structure of the work, which consists of introduction, ... chapters, conclusion, bibliography, appendix (the latter is indicated if the work has an appendix);
- the logic, goals and objectives of the study determined the structure of the work, which consists of...;
- the introduction gives a general description of the work, substantiates the relevance of the topic and its social significance, defines the purpose, objectives, methodological basis of the study and research methods, and also gives a brief overview of the development of the problem;
- The first chapter is dedicated to...,
- the second chapter discusses/talks about..., the first chapter examined..., the second chapter begins with..., then...;
- the conclusion represents the conclusions of the work / the conclusion contains the main conclusions, etc.
An example of a description of methods in a thesis
Topic: prevention of dysgraphia in children with general speech underdevelopment
Purpose of the study: to identify the prerequisites for the occurrence of dysgraphia in children of senior preschool age with OSD and children without speech pathology.
In accordance with the goal and the formed hypothesis, the following research objectives were identified:
- Study of the theoretical and methodological aspect of the research problem based on data from specialized literature.
- Theoretical justification and development of experimental research methodology.
- Experimental study of the state of different aspects of oral speech and mental processes and functions that ensure the formation of written speech, determination of the typology of identified deficiencies in preschool children with ODD.
- Processing of the obtained experimental data
- Development of a set of methodological techniques for differentiated correctional and speech therapy work aimed at developing the prerequisites for written speech in children with SLD.
In accordance with the intended purpose and objectives of the study, we identified the following methods:
- Theoretical analysis of pedagogical, psychological and methodological literature on the research topic.
- Observation.
- Conversation, questioning.
- Analysis of children's activity products.
- Study of medical and pedagogical documentation.
- An experimental method, including conducting a confirmatory experiment, analysis and generalization of the data obtained.
Conclusion
These are not all the methods that can be used when writing scientific papers. But we tried to introduce you to the most popular and important ones.
When choosing methods, remember: they must be scientifically sound and modern. Using outdated methods is unacceptable. In addition, methods must be consistent with the research objectives, because solving each individual problem requires a specific method.
And it's completely okay that you don't know them all. Why, when there is a special one? Knowing such things is the job of specialists. And your task is to get everything you can from life and youth!
To solve the problems posed in the work, the following research methods were used:
1.Analysis and synthesis of scientific and methodological literature.
2. Anthropometry.
3.Psychological testing.
4.Pedagogical observations.
5.Pedagogical experiment.
6.Mathematical processing of results.
Analysis and synthesis of scientific and methodological literature
Work was carried out to select methodological literature and its analysis was carried out in order to identify. The review of scientific and methodological literature describes the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the musculoskeletal system of children of primary school age, describes the technique of corrective gymnastics and its effect on the spine. 56 literary sources of domestic and foreign authors were studied.
Pedagogical observations included the following
Anthropometric measurements.
1.1. Standing height (measurement accuracy - 0.5 cm)
1.2. Weight (measurement accuracy - 0.5 kg)
1.3 Chest circumference (measurement accuracy - 0.5 s)
1.4. Dynamometry (measurement accuracy - 0.5 kg)
Physical fitness assessment
2.1. Test "Raising straight legs from a starting position lying on your back." Designed to measure strength and power endurance of the muscles of the lower extremities. I.p. lying on your back, arms along your body, legs straight together. Raise your legs up above an angle of 60 0, return to the i.p. Within 10 seconds, perform the maximum number of repetitions of the exercise. Rating: number of times.
2.2 Test "Squat". The test is designed to measure speed-strength endurance of the muscles of the lower extremities. I.p. - stand with legs apart, arms along the body. Squat, flexion angle at the knee joint 90 0, arms forward, return to standing position. Within 10 seconds, you need to perform the maximum number of repetitions of the exercise. Rating: number of times.
2.3 Test "Shuttle run 10 m x 3 times." Designed to assess speed abilities. Performed as a jerk at maximum speed from a high start with turns on the limit lines. Instructions for subjects: “Stand behind the boundary line, with one foot located at the line itself, the other behind in a position convenient for each subject. After the signal, run as quickly as possible to the opposite boundary line, cross it, turn around and run to the start line. Having reached it, step in the same way and after turning, continue running in the opposite direction. Thus, you must complete three round-trip cycles. The test will be performed once, so from the very beginning, tune in to perform it at maximum speed and do not reduce it by any amount. turns.
Rating: measurement accuracy - 0.1 s.
2.4. Test "Walking in a straight line with eyes closed."
The test is designed to determine dexterity and coordination abilities. A 30 cm wide path is marked, which is limited by the side lines. The subject is asked to walk along the path with his eyes closed without stepping on the boundary lines (for example, 3m.5 cm).
2.5. Test "Complex coordination exercise". This test is designed to measure agility and coordination. The test is scored on a 10-point system.
Starting position - main stance.
1 - jumping legs apart
2 - jump legs together, arms to the sides
3 - jump legs apart, arms down
4 - jump legs together, arms to the sides
Score: 10 points - completed on the first try
9 points - from the second
8 points - from the third, etc.
2.6. Test "Running 120 m". Designed to measure strength endurance. Helper needed. Performed from a high start. The test is carried out on the site (on the street), a distance of 120 m is marked (around the building). Children are invited to the command "March!" cover the distance from flag to flag without stopping, while it is allowed to combine running and walking at a pace convenient for the child.
Rating: measurement accuracy: 0.1 s.
Tests: Agility Index (Flamingo Test)
Posture assessment Normal posture is characterized by the following signs. The human body is not tense, but not relaxed either. Viewed from the front: The head position is straight, the shoulders, collarbones, costal arches, and iliac crests are symmetrical. The stomach is flat and tucked up. Legs are straight, thighs and shins are closed. The distance between the lowered arms and the waist is the same. Viewed from behind: the contours of the shoulders are at the same level, the shoulder blades are not too far from the chest, their lower corners are at the same level, and the inner edges are at the same distance from the spine. The line drawn along the most prominent points of the spine should be a vertical straight line. Viewed from the side: the spine has a moderate wave-like curve (anteriorly, cervical and lumbar lordosis; posteriorly, thoracic and sacrococcygeal kyphosis). A line mentally drawn through the earlobe, shoulder joint, greater trochanter, head of the fibula, and the outer side of the ankle joint should be continuous vertical.
4. Somatoscopy, somatometry
External examination (somatoscopy) makes it possible to evaluate physique, condition of the musculoskeletal system (shape of the chest, legs, arms, feet), posture.
To measure physical condition use somatometry(actually anthropometry), or the measurement of a living person.
The foundations of modern anthropological methods were laid by the works of the famous French anthropologist, anatomist and surgeon Paul Broca (1824–1880), who in the 60–70s of the last century developed detailed programs for conducting anthropological research, proposed a number of instruments and instruments for measuring the human body, compiled tables for determining pigmentation, etc.
This technique received significant improvement and expansion in the works of Rudolf Martin (1864-1925). His three-volume manual "Lehrbuch der Anthropologie in systematischer Darstellung" ("Textbook of Anthropology in a Systematic Presentation") provides a detailed presentation of the techniques of anthropometric and anthroposcopic examination and a summary of numerical data on variations in individual somatological, osteological and craniological characters (the first edition of Martin's manual was published in 1914 ., second, posthumous, in 1928). Currently, the third edition has been published, revised by K. Zaller (1956–1959).
Martin's Anthropological Methodology with certain modifications, has received the widest recognition and application, as well as various basic anthropometric instruments improved by him.
To determine the height and proportions of the body, a metal rod compound is used Martin anthropometer; For measuring the head and face, as well as for craniometric studies, sliding and thick compasses, also Martin systems, are used.
When measuring angles on the skull, use an attachment Mollison goniometer, mounted on the leg of a sliding compass. There is a significant set of special tools: tripods for strengthening skulls, a mandibulometer for measuring the lower jaw, coordinate compasses for measuring depth dimensions, boards for measuring long bones, etc.
To obtain reliable results in anthropological research, a number of general and special conditions must be observed. The most important of them is strict adherence to established measurement techniques and accepted instructions. Even a slight deviation from determining a particular anthropometric point or a violation in the installation of what is being measured is enough for the results obtained to be incomparable with others.
In anthropometry, various methods are used to reproduce an object or elements of its structure, i.e., its size and shape. These are the methods graphic reproduction contours of the body, skull; special moves anthropological photography; plastic reproduction forms by making casts; receiving relief prints skin; cooking blood smears and a number of other methods.
Methods have been widely used in anthropology variational-statistical processing of measurement materials; Using these methods, the most representative, i.e., the most often occurring in the group under study, value of the trait, the range of variations, the statistical reality of differences between groups, the degree of their closeness to each other, etc. are determined.
5. Psychological test
Everyone knows the word “psychosomatics,” although not everyone fully understands what it is. Roughly speaking, “psychosomatics” is the dependence of a person’s physiological state on mental factors. The back is very sensitive to psychological problems. Muscles react sharply to any experience, especially if it is an experience with a minus sign. A negative emotion is a load, a burden that a person has taken on. And although this severity is not physical, the muscles of the back and neck react to it. The more stress a person experiences, the more it affects his posture. And it doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about a child or an adult
Mostly, poor posture develops in childhood. And it’s not just the wrong posture in class that is to blame for this. Frequent punishments, bad marks, and conflicts also deteriorate your posture. In general, there are many psychological reasons for poor posture. Have you, for example, ever noticed that children who are subject to unreasonably high demands (and they honestly try to meet these requirements) raise their shoulders strongly? This habit often remains for life. Which, in turn, affects muscle function, the condition of the spine and, as a result, the functioning of internal organs.
Often, however, the opposite effect occurs: poor posture makes a person feel complex, creates psychological discomfort, which, in turn, again leads to various ailments.
That is why the study separately examined the level of adequate self-esteem.
To identify the level of self-esteem in a child, a modified test developed by S.G. was used. Yakobson and V.G. Shchur (Ya.L. Kolominsky, E.A. Panko. Diagnosis and correction of mental development of preschool children, - Minsk, 1997 p. 58).
The test developed by G.A. Uruntaeva, was used to determine the level of self-esteem in 3 types of activities: drawing, labor, motor exercises (G.A. Uruntaeva. Diagnosis of psychological characteristics of preschool children. - M., 1998).
Test T.A. Repina was used to determine self-esteem and assess the personal qualities of children in the group (G.A. Uruntaeva. Diagnosis of psychological characteristics of preschool children. - M., 1998).
The results of each test were calculated in points from 0 to 10. Depending on the number of points scored, the subjects were divided into 3 groups:
1 gr. from 7 to 10 points – children with high self-esteem.
2 gr. from 4 to 6 points – children with adequate self-esteem.
3 gr. from 0 to 3 points – children with low self-esteem.
6. Pedagogical observation
An important element of the study is pedagogical observation. It allows you to determine the following facts influencing the development of posture:
Physical activity mode in kindergarten
psychological atmosphere in the group
individual behavioral characteristics of children that influence posture
The purpose of our study was to identify and analyze the kinematic parameters of the technique of performing a straight punch with the right hand in kickboxing.
To achieve the research goal, the following tasks were set and solved:
1. Based on analyzes of literary sources, identify the biomechanical features of a direct right blow;
2. Using a high-speed camera, collect practical material on the technique of performing a straight right punch in kickboxing.
3. Reconstruct the spatial coordinates of the links of the kinematic chain.
4. Conduct an analysis of the kinematic characteristics of the technique of performing a direct blow with the right hand in kickboxing.
straight punch kickboxing martial arts
To solve the problems, the following research methods were used
1. Theoretical analysis and synthesis of literature data;
2. Video shooting;
3. Mathematical data processing;
4. Biomechanical analysis of video recording.
Analysis of literary sources. In the course of our work, we studied 27 literary sources from different authors and specialists from different branches of science. Among them are publications in the field of biomechanics, kickboxing and boxing. This analysis allowed us to obtain the most complete understanding of the problem being studied;
To perform biomechanical analysis of the video sequence, we used a specialized computer program for biomechanical analysis with a convenient graphical interface, which is part of the biomechanical software and hardware video complex;
For kinematic analysis, 9 control points were selected:
1. Shoulder joint, right;
3. Wrist joint, right;
4. Hip joint, right;
5. Knee joint, right;
6. Ankle joint, right;
7. Calcaneal tubercle, right;
8. Metatarsal bone, right;
9. Temporal bone.
The work used mathematical methods to find spatial coordinates and to find points;
The hardware and software complex is designed to analyze the linear and angular kinematics of movements based on the analysis of various parameters:
a) linear kinematics: displacement, speed, acceleration of points and links of the body;
b) angular kinematics: angles, angular velocities, angular accelerations, angular synkinesis (the relationship of movement in various joints).
Organization of the study
The main part of the study was carried out in the sports hall of the Leningrad State Pedagogical University. Video filming took place in September 2009. The experimental procedure was used from November 2009 to April 2010.
Our study used a domestic development - the Star Trace software and hardware complex, which has one high-speed camera Fastec InLine with a maximum shooting frequency of up to 1,000 frames/s and allowing the coordinates of points in the XOY plane to be determined in an automated mode, reflective markers were also used, attached to the reference points of interest on the athlete’s body and training paws. The video filming was attended by Vladimir Shulyak, a 5th year student of the 2nd group, and Anatoly Agafonov, a 2nd year student of the 2nd group; the video was conducted by Andrey Aleksandrovich Pomerantsev, assisted by Viktor Mikhailovich Korshikov.
Research methods- these are ways to achieve the goal of research work. Sometimes students use the wording research methods or project, but it is more correct to use the first type of record.
The rationale for research methods is described in the Introduction to Student Research section. Often this section contains a simple listing of research methods.
In justifying the research methods, you need to indicate the research methods that were used in the research work and it is advisable to explain your choice of research methods, i.e. indicate why these methods are better suited to achieve the goal.
At each stage of the work, the researcher determines the research methods to be used that are best suited to accomplish the tasks set in the research work and achieve the desired goal in the project.
A huge number of research methods applicable in research work (project) can be combined into methods of the empirical level, experimental-theoretical level and simply theoretical level. Let's consider possible research methods in a student's research project.
Types of research methods
Empirical level methods:- observation;
- interview;
- survey;
- survey;
- interview;
- testing;
- photographing;
- check;
- measurement;
- comparison.
Using these research methods, specific phenomena or processes are studied, on the basis of which hypotheses are formed, analysis is made, and conclusions are formulated.
Methods of experimental-theoretical level:
- experiment;
- laboratory experience;
- analysis;
- modeling;
- historical;
- logical;
- synthesis;
- induction;
- deduction;
- hypothetical.
These research methods help not only to collect facts, but also to test them, systematize them, identify non-random dependencies and determine causes and consequences.
Theoretical level methods:
- study and synthesis;
- abstraction;
- idealization;
- formalization;
- analysis and synthesis;
- induction and deduction;
- axiomatics.
These research methods make it possible to carry out a logical investigation of the collected facts, develop concepts and judgments, make conclusions and theoretical generalizations.
Basic research methods
1. Studying literature and other sources of informationThis research method is the collection of information on the research topic (project) from books, magazines, newspapers, disks and the Internet. Before you begin collecting information, you need to identify the basic concepts that are important for the study and find their definitions.
Please note that information may have varying degrees of reliability, especially on the Internet. In the text of your research paper, provide links to sources of information.
2. Observation
This research method is a targeted perception of a phenomenon, during which the researcher obtains information. Before you start observing, you need to make a plan.
Answer the questions: when, where, for how long and what exactly you will observe. Write down the results of your observations. Records can be made in text or table form.
3. Survey
conversation, interview, questionnaire.
The conversation is conducted according to a pre-planned plan, highlighting issues that require clarification. It is conducted in free form without recording the interlocutor’s answers.
When conducting interviews, the researcher adheres to pre-planned questions asked in a certain sequence. During the interview, responses are recorded.
4. Questionnaire
This research method is a mass collection of material using a questionnaire. Those to whom the questionnaires are addressed provide answers to the questions in writing. Questionnaires can be on paper or online. When preparing for a survey, clearly define the questions you want answered and determine who you will ask them to. Survey results can be presented in text or in the form of charts showing what percentage of respondents chose one answer option or another.
5. Experiment
This research method consists of conducting a series of experiments. Experience involves creating certain conditions, observing what happens, and recording the results. Both the conditions, the course of the experiment, and the results obtained must be described in detail in the research work (project). The results can be presented in the form of text, graphs, diagrams. It must be remembered that educational experiments on animals and people are strictly prohibited!
6. Text analysis
This research method is a process of obtaining information through text interpretation. In the text you can find words with one meaning or another, words of different parts of speech, repetitions, rhymes, means of artistic expression, errors, inconsistency between the content of the text and the illustrations, etc. All this affects our perception and understanding of the text. You can compare a text in a foreign language and its translation. It is interesting that today scientists consider text not only verbally expressed information, but also graphic images, and even music.
Examples of recording research methods
Research methods: observation, interviews, statistical analysis, study of the media, literature.
Research methods:
1. theoretical: theoretical analysis of literary sources, newspapers;
2. empirical: interviews, sociological surveys.
Research methods: theoretical analysis and synthesis of scientific literature, periodicals about the history of the city from the archives and funds of museums, libraries, excursions in the vicinity where historical events took place.
Research methods:
1. bibliographic analysis of literature and materials on the Internet;
2. taking temperature measurements;
3. system analysis;
4. isolation and synthesis of the main components.
Research methods:
- study and analysis of literature;
- survey of schoolchildren;
- taking measurements of the weight of the backpack;
- analysis of the received data.
Research methods:
1) First, we will draw up questions and conduct a survey. Then, knowing the energy value of foods, we calculate the amount of proteins, fats and carbohydrates consumed by each student.
2) We will process the results of the survey we conducted using a computer program. Based on the data obtained, it will be possible to observe the dynamics of changes in the risk share of liver and gastrointestinal diseases.
Research method in course work– this is a way, means and instrument that contributes to the acquisition of new knowledge and skills, expansion of the theoretical base, helps to confirm or prove in practice the theses set out in the course work.
It is no secret that there are many methods in science, so there is not always a need to use them all. The choice of methodology directly depends on the goals and objectives set in the work, from which the methods used in it are determined.
Any method is needed to find the truth, correctly understand and explain the current situation, and in some cases help to change it.
The choice of research methods used will depend on the tasks, subject and object of work highlighted in the coursework.
Research methods are needed to understand the way of studying and understanding the topic stated in the course work.
Classification of research methods
All research methods are usually divided into 2 main groups:
Using the same principle, this article will be divided into 2 large blocks.
The group of theoretical methods includes:
- abstraction;
- analogy;
- classification;
- generalization;
- comparative analysis;
- synthesis (union);
- study and analysis of literature;
- study and analysis of documentation, archival sources, etc.
Scientific research methods include:
- experiments;
- observation;
- calculations, measurements;
- modeling;
- conversation or interview;
- survey;
- description, etc.
Attention! The method used in the course work is revealed in the practical part of the work. It also describes the results of applying the method and their analysis.
You cannot choose a research method at random. It must be justified and necessary for a specific job.
For example, you need to predict the dynamics of corn growth using a mathematical model based on the principle of least squares. As justification, it can be stated that this method allows the most accurate reflection of statistical data. An additional advantage in favor of this method is that a similar model has not previously been used to predict corn growth.
Now let's delve into the methodology and examine each of the above methods in more detail.
Theoretical methods
The first block included methods related to the theoretical part of the study, in which practical actions are not used.
Abstraction
This research method is based on the specification of a separate property of an object or phenomenon that is studied as part of scientific work.
In simple words, the essence of this method is that the student studies the property or quality of the object and subject of research that he needs for work, without taking into account all other properties and characteristics.
Abstraction is one of the most important research methods in the humanities. It allows you to grasp the most important patterns in psychology, pedagogy and philosophy that are not visible at first glance.
An example of abstraction is the study of literature, which is divided into a huge number of genres, styles, types, etc. Using this method, we can discard and not consider the characteristics of the subject of study that we do not need, such as: publication, press, language, genre and others .
As a result, the conclusion made on the basis of abstraction may be the definition of literature as the totality of all works reflecting scientific, artistic, philosophical and other opinions and positions of an individual or an entire people.
Analogy
The essence of this method is that, based on knowledge about the properties and characteristics of an object similar to the object of study, it is possible to draw certain conclusions about what we are considering in scientific work.
The method does not give 100% results, but overall it is quite effective. It is used in cases where the object under study cannot be studied directly.
Based on the analogy, some conclusions are drawn about the terrestrial planets, their properties and conditions for potential exploration by humanity.
Classification
Classification is one of the simplest but most effective methods used in research work. The essence of this method is structuring, dividing research objects into certain groups according to some similar characteristics.
It can be classified according to various criteria, for example, such as:
- physical parameters (size, weight, volume);
- materials (metal, wood, plastic, porcelain);
- genres (fiction, painting, sculpture);
- styles (baroque, gothic, classicism).
Can also be divided by geopolitical affiliation:
- Europe (Eastern, Western, Southern);
- Asia (Eastern, Southeast, Middle East);
- America (North, Latin, Caribbean).
Chronologically:
- Ancient times (Ancient Egypt, Assyria, Babylonia);
- Antiquity (Ancient Greece, Roman Empire);
- Middle Ages (European Middle Ages, Asian, American);
- New time;
- Recent history.
The above classifications are provided as examples only.
In course work, you can use any classification that will be the most accurate, convenient and effective.
Generalization
When using this method, several items and objects are combined into larger groups according to certain similar characteristics to identify common characteristics and features.
Generalization happens:
- inductive (empirical) – transition from specific properties and characteristics to broader, general judgments;
- analytical - a transition from one judgment to another, carried out in the mental process without using empirical reality.
Generalization is often used, an example being the transition from the concept of “lemon” to “citrus”, then to “plants” in general. Another example is the transition from the concept of “Earth” to “terrestrial planets”, then to “celestial bodies”.
Comparative analysis
This method consists of comparing the characteristics and properties of two or more objects, which reveals their similarities and differences. This method is very popular.
Examples include comparing the artistic styles of painters or writers, the characteristics of one car with another, etc.
Synthesis
Synthesis is the combination of previously identified or known properties and characteristics of an object into a single whole. Synthesis inextricably exists with analysis, since it is always present in it as a factor that unites the results of analysis.
Example. Based on the results of our analysis of the work of various structures of the plant (production shops, accounting department, management, technical, etc.), a synthesis was made, on the basis of which the general situation at the plant, its efficiency and profitability were identified.
Literature analysis
Based on this method, conclusions are drawn on how well certain aspects have been studied, on which there is a large body of scientific work, and which are still at the stage of study.
When using this method the following applies:
- scientific works of authoritative authors;
- collective monographs;
- articles, essays, notes;
- memoirs, etc.
The more works there are on a certain topic, and the more deeply it has been studied, the more researched the subject or phenomenon is considered.
The method of studying documentation and archival sources works on the same principle.
Empirical methods
This block will examine scientific and practical research methods that clearly demonstrate conclusions made on the basis of theoretical knowledge and methods.
Experiment
This method is one of the most effective, therefore it is an important component for writing a serious scientific work. It is used extremely rarely in coursework.
The main principles of this research method are repeatability and evidence.
In simple words, an experiment must not only clearly demonstrate or discover a particular property or phenomenon, but must also be able to be repeated.
A traditional example is considered to be an experiment conducted by Galileo to determine the speed of fall of a cannonball and a small lead ball. He threw them from the Leaning Tower of Pisa and saw which would land on the ground faster. This experiment is now considered biased because no controlling factors were taken into account when conducting it.
Observation
Any scientific knowledge begins with this method, so observation is considered one of the key research methods.
Its essence is very simple: the observer looks at the object under study and records everything that seems important to him. All changes, reactions, properties.
Example. An ornithologist observes birds through binoculars, recording their behavior, habitat, interactions with other representatives of their species, etc.
Measurement
This method is one of the most effective and is the recording of any physical parameters of an object (weight, height, length, volume, etc.) using units of measurement. The result obtained by this method is recorded and expressed in a numerical indicator.
An example is the measurement of the length of several individuals of an animal, on the basis of which conclusions can be drawn about the size of the entire species.
Modeling
In the broadest sense of the term, a model is a copy, a structured, reduced image of something, an imitation of one or more objects.
Modeling is divided into:
- subject (a separate part of the studied object is reproduced);
- symbolic (modeling is done using drawings, formulas, diagrams, etc.);
- mental (operations carried out mentally or in the virtual world, for example, an algorithm, a computer program, a computer simulation).
Modeling is used in the creation and development of new technologies, the design of structures, cars, etc.
Conversation and interview
These methods are very similar. Their essence lies in a personal conversation with a person who can provide the necessary information about the object being studied or is himself the object of study.
The difference between a conversation and an interview is that the latter is more regulated. During the interview, the interviewee gives answers to clearly asked, pre-formulated questions, while the interviewer practically does not demonstrate his point of view.
The conversation is more relaxed in nature, during which both interlocutors can express their opinions and ask questions, even spontaneous ones.
Both methods are very popular when writing coursework because they are easy to implement and effective.
Survey and questionnaire
These methods also have many similarities with each other. Both of them involve pre-prepared questions that need to be answered. Often several ready-made answer options are given.
The difference is that the survey can be either in written or oral form, but the survey is only in a written or computer version. In this case, the answer is often given in graphical form.
The advantage of these methods is the ability to reach a large number of people and obtain the most accurate data.
Description
This method has some similarities with observation, but unlike it, when using this method, not only phenomena and behavior are recorded, but also the appearance and characteristics of the object being studied.
Example. Let's take the example already used above of an ornithologist watching birds. If in the first case he recorded the behavior and interaction of birds with other animals, then with the descriptive method he will focus on recording data on the appearance of birds, their nests, etc.