1. Ways of collecting data
PTLA Merv Lebor
Ways of collecting data

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

3. 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)

4. 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?

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

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

7. 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?

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

9. 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)

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

11. All the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Please contact me for any issues or details