METHODOLOGY
“Methodology” implies more than simply the
methods you intend to use to collect data. It is often
necessary to include a consideration of the
concepts and theories which underlie the methods.
Methodology is the discussion of methods. This
includes the theoretical ideas and concerns that
inform the use of different methods. A methodology
section in a research paper needs to achieve three
things, though not necessarily in this order: Firstly,
it should consider what the nature of academic work
is more generally, and what this might mean for
anyone who explores the topic at hand. Secondly, it
needs to provide a literature review, discussing
what methods researchers have traditionally used
to study the kind of topic that the project focuses
on. Thirdly, it should explain what methods this
particular project uses and why.
Reflection
Make a distinction between “methodology” (the discussion of methods), “method” (a general
technique in research), and “strategy” (the practical work-steps of how to apply a method to
a specific case).