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Lecture on “ Research Methodology : An Interdisciplinary Approach
he pointed out four fundamental questions she asks herself when researching ; What , How , Why and So What . One must check What the written piece is about , How is the author putting it forward , Why is the author saying so and �nally , after accumulating all the information , So What ; how the text serves us . " It is important to ask questions ," she pointed out " even if you don ' t get an answer ."
During the query session , some essential questions were raised ; Q : How to eliminate the practice of running behind perspectives that agree with your own when researching ? A : One must read against the grain . It is not necessary that all sources agree with your own . It is important to look at the positioning of the writer and the critic and then decide your own positioning .
Q : How to not lose the bigger picture during research ? A : Sometimes a branch of the topic ends up becoming the very topic ; a branch which we begin enjoying more than the actual topic of interest . Do not choose the easy / fun path ; learn to prioritize between the main topic and its sub topics .
Q : Is it possible to merge primary and secondary sources ? A : Yes , it is called mixed method research . This is why research is interdisciplinary .
Q : We feel not credible before the many experts of the �eld A : We are all amateurs here , but you need not be an expert in a �eld to raise questions in it . That is how one learns . There is space for all of us in research .
Q : How to know your perspectives will be accepted by others ? A : One must ask oneself if these are personal prejudices / biases or a fair point one is attempting to raise ? If it is a bias , it would be tough to substantiate , but if actual reasons are found , then by default , it is a fair point , and hence it deserves to be raised .
In closing off she happily claimed , " Enjoy research because that is the only way to do research ."
- Abhishree Khanna , SLS ' 15