Lecture 2 - Methodology and Critical Analysis

This lecture focused mainly in what a methodology is, in order to encourage us to not be afraid to actually use the term in our writing. It was mentioned that every research project needs to have a methodology, and that every project will always have one automatically, even if it isn't well thought out or easy to establish. Although "Methodology" is a scientific word, it's actually straight forward:

• It is a systematic and organised way of addressing a research project 
• It is unique to each research project 

Richard also highlighted the importance of "Explaining and defending the ways in which you have gathered research " because otherwise, how do we know it is valid? 

The "methodology" of our projects must always be established at the start of our dissertations. The importance of "Critical Thinking" was also emphasised. Again, this is actually a very simple thing, it simply means, separating the best from the worst and the appropriate from the inappropriate. This is something that will help me to carry out my research well and to ensure that the information I am providing is relevant. 

We were also encouraged to thin about "Skepticism" which is a term used to describe, stepping backwards and allowing the research and logic to bring you to your conclusion. Also, the use of triangulation will result in more effective, useful research, and will prevent the outcome from seeming biased or ill informed. 

This was a really useful lecture, because it reminded me to constantly be looking for contradictory sources and to make sure my research is not one sided.