Typical questions

• • Where can I get advice on how to do discourse analysis?

• • What software can I use to code qualitative research interviews?

Starting points

• • Common questions relate to the choice of research method for a project and the type of software that can be used to manipulate the data. Library staff can provide general advice about the range of methods but the ultimate choice should be made in conjunction with academic staff. The organisational resources provide advice and training on key tools. However, always check local IT facilities first.

• • A good starting point is to find out whether advice is needed on qualitative or quantitative methods. Very basically, qualitative research is usually concerned with understanding/interpreting human behaviour. Its methods often include fieldwork, focus groups, unstructured interviews and observation. Quantitative research focuses upon the collection of empirical numeric data and testing of hypotheses. This often involves the handling and evaluation of statistical data. Examples include longitudinal surveys, controlled trials and cohort studies. Some subjects, primarily the sciences, concentrate upon this method. Others, including social sciences, often use a combination or mixed methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods.

• • Another key area of concern is research ethics. The local university may have its own procedures to follow. General advice can be obtained from the Organisations websites and by consulting any professional body of the subject area. The Research Data Management chapter is also relevant.

• • Students may want to find published articles that use a specific method. These can be located using subject specific journal indexes. Check if the advanced search form has the ability to limit by type of study. If it does not, try entering it as a keyword.

• • This chapter covers qualitative and quantitative methods. There is a separate chapter on Systematic Reviews. Students who need to access examples of completed social research should also consult the Opinion Polls, Market Research and Statistical Data chapters. The latter highlights key data archives that have catalogues of surveys.

Recommended resources

Key organisations

Methods@Manchester

www.methods.manchester.ac.uk

Based at Manchester University. This website provides free access to guides and video resources covering all types of research.