Preparing the Methodology Chapter

Political Science 5397

Applied Research Project

Texas State University

Patricia M. Shields

This chapter explains the methodology used to address the research purpose. In the first part of the chapter you should explain how the approach to collecting data corresponds to the research purpose. Remember, you have developed a framework that is tied to the research purpose. The operationalization table connects the research purpose to the data via the framework and the rules specified in the table (i.e., the questionnaire items are tied directly to the framework). Essentially you are beefing up the methodology section of the prospectus.

Hence, the operationalization table should appear early in the chapter because it directs everything else.

Methodology Chapter

I. Purpose of the chapter and discussion of how the data collection technique addresses the ARP research question.

II. Operationalization Table and narrative briefly describing it.
Many of the remaining sections of the chapter are an extended discussion of the operationalization table. The columns of the operationalization table organize your chapter.

III. Discussion of the method used – Survey, Case Study, Content Analysis, Interviews, Focus Groups, Analysis of existing data, etc.

Note, most students using multiple methods will be doing a case study and the other methods are within the context of the case. Each method and the case study should be discussed. Start with the point that you are doing a case study.

IV. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the technique(s). The strengths of the method should in part justify the choice of method. Make the case. Be sure and mention how you addressed the weaknesses in your discussion. In other words the discussion should not be just an abstract reiteration of strengths and weaknesses, apply these ideas to your project.

For example, if you are interested in general attitudes toward a subject than survey is the method to use. If you are interested in a broader question than breadth and depth than triangulation survey and interviews (focus group) are the techniques that are appropriate.

V. If you are doing relational hypotheses - work up a discussion of the independent and dependent variables.

VI. Discuss the sampling or population issues. (this is not in the operationalization table)

Who gets the questionnaire? Which entity (web site) does the coding sheet apply to? Where and when questions should be answered (what was the time frame of the analysis). Discuss the approach to sampling (random sampling, quota sampling, convenience sampling). Discuss the sampling frame.

VII. Human Subjects Protection
Include a description of any reasonably foreseeable risks or discomforts to the subject. Include a description of any benefits to the subjects or to others that might reasonably be expected. Describe how the confidentiality of records identifying the subject was maintained. Explain whom the responded would contact for further information about the research and about subjects' right. Indicate that that participation was voluntary and that refusal to participate involved no penalty or loss of benefits and that the subject had the right to discontinue participation at any time.

VIII. Statistics:
When relevant, discuss the statistics (statistical tests) that will be used to address the research question. Explain and justify your choice.

Texas State University-San Marcos is a member of the Texas State University System.

Revised 10/13/2006