Ways of collecting data PTLA Merv Lebor Ways of collecting data

Aims To outline key ways of collecting data for research To consolidate knowledge of research methods

What is research? ‘systematic, critical and self-critical enquiry which aims to contribute to the advancement of knowledge’ ( Stenhouse,1981,p45, cited by Pring, 2004, p7)

What constitutes good research? Who does it? How should it be done? What is research? What constitutes good research? Who does it? How should it be done?

The problem... Good research questions will: Define the focus of research Define the boundaries of research Define the direction of research

Types of research Action research Case Study An experiment Ethnographic study of learners

The literature review A selection has to be made, and only books and articles which relate directly to the topic should be included. (Bell, 2005, p236) What has been said before and by whom?

Methods of collecting data... Documents Questionnaires (aka Surveys) Interviews Diary log and critical incidents Observation Focus group

Ethics Denscombe states that researchers are expected to: Respect the rights and dignity of those who are participating in the research project. Avoid harm to the participants arising from their involvement in the research. Operate with honesty and integrity. (Denscombe, 2003, p134)

Typical ethical issues Confidentiality Anonymity Legality Professionalism Participation (Use BERA, 2011)

All the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please contact me for any issues or details Mervyn.lebor@leedscitycollege.ac.uk