Since you usually cannot study an entire population, you must select a sample:
Uses Content Analysis (counting words) or Thematic Analysis (identifying patterns and themes). 7. Reliability, Validity, and Ethics Research Methodology
Before choosing tools, a researcher must decide on their philosophical stance: Since you usually cannot study an entire population,
A strong research methodology section does not just list methods; it justifies them. It explains why a specific path was chosen and how it minimizes bias, ensuring that the final conclusions of the essay or study are intellectually sound. It explains why a specific path was chosen
New data collected specifically for the study (Surveys, Interviews, Experiments, Observations).
Combines both to provide a more holistic view of the research problem. 4. Data Collection Methods (The "How") This section details the practical steps taken:
Selection based on convenience or specific criteria (Purposive, Snowball). This is common in qualitative studies. 6. Data Analysis Once data is collected, how is it processed?