Methodology
This section should present clearly and concisely the precise way in which the
research was carried out, and why that method was chosen.
In other words, each aspect of the method – sampling, analysing,
interviewing – must be explained so that someone else could carry out the
same research, and they must also be justified. Why was one method used
rather than another? Why were 7 people interviewed, not more or fewer?
Evidence should be used to support the choice of methodology.
When you are evaluating this section, it helps to think about looking for gaps –
what information has not been provided – and explain why you think it would
have been useful or important.
Are the methods consistent with qualitative or quantitative research?
Is the approach clearly stated?
Are the methods clearly explained and justified?
Are important details provided, so that the research could be replicated by
someone else?
Are details of data collection clearly described and justified?
Are any ethical considerations described and explained?
Results/findings
The results or findings of the study should be presented clearly and
consistently, in line with the stated aim of the research.
The results are not commented on or analysed at this stage, but should be
fully presented, using visual methods if appropriate, such as graphs or tables.
There should not be any ‘gaps’ in the results, and if there is any absence of
relevant data, due to circumstances beyond the control of the researcher, the
gap should be explained so that the reader is fully aware of the context.
Are the results presented clearly and consistently?
Are any graphs or tables clearly presented and coherent?
Is sufficient detail provided?
Are any gaps in the data-gathering accounted for?