Types of research methods and disciplines

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A dissertation is an extended piece of writing based on comprehensive reading and research,
written by an academic scholar at an undergraduate, masters or post graduate level. In some cases,
a dissertation is referred to an academic research document written at PhD level, while
a Thesis may be one which is written by an academic at Masters or Undergraduate level. However
the opposite is also true in other cases. However, in British English it is the other way round, a
dissertation is usually written for a masters degree and a thesis is written at PhD level.

Etymology[edit]

The word ‘dissertation’ was derived from the Latin word dissertātiō which means ‘discourse’ or ‘path’.

Types of Research[edit]

There are two types of research which can be done to develop a thesis or dissertation:

Practical Research: The practical approach consists of the empirical study of the topic under
research and chiefly consists of hands on approach. This involves first hand research in the form of
questionnaires, surveys, interviews, observations and discussion groups. [1]

Theoretical Research: A non empirical approach to research, this usually involves perusal of
mostly published works like researching through archives of public libraries, court rooms and
published academic journals.[2]

Types of Research[edit]
Qualitative[edit]
This type of research methods involve describing in details specific situation using research tools like
interviews, surveys, and Observations. Qualitative Research is primarily exploratory research. It is
used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. It provides insights
into the problem or helps to develop ideas or hypotheses for potential quantitative research.
Qualitative Research is also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into
the problem. Qualitative data collection methods vary using unstructured or semi-structured
techniques. Some common methods include focus groups (group discussions), individual interviews,
and participation/observations. The sample size is typically small, and respondents are selected to
fulfill a given quota.so it is useful for each and every method.
Qualitative research

Qualitative research is the approach usually associated with the social constructivist paradigm which
emphasises the socially constructed nature of reality. It is about recording, analysing and attempting
to uncover the deeper meaning and significance of human behaviour and experience, including
contradictory beliefs, behaviours and emotions. Researchers are interested in gaining a rich and
complex understanding of people’s experience and not in obtaining information which can be
generalized to other larger groups.

The approach to data collection and analysis is methodical but allows for greater flexibility than in
quantitative research. Data is collected in textual form on the basis of observation and interaction
with the participants e.g. through participant observation, in-depth interviews and focus groups. It is
not converted into numerical form and is not statistically analysed.

Quantitative[edit]
This type of research methods requires quantifiable data involving numerical and statistical
explanations. Quantitative Research is used to quantify the problem by way of generating numerical
data or data that can be transformed into useable statistics. It is used to quantify attitudes, opinions,
behaviors, and other defined variables – and generalize results from a larger sample population.
Quantitative Research uses measurable data to formulate facts and uncover patterns in research.
Quantitative data collection methhelloys, face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, longitudinal
studies, website interceptors, online polls, and systematic observations.

Quantitative research

Quantitative research is generally associated with the positivist/postpositivist paradigm. It usually

involves collecting and converting data into numerical form so that statistical calculations can be
made and conclusions drawn.
Correlation/Regression Analysis[edit]
This research method involves determining the strength of the relationship between two or more
variables (e.g. are violent video games correlated with aggression in children).

Meta-Analysis[edit]
This research method is useful for finding out the average impact of several different studies on a
hypothesis.

Academic Disciplines of Dissertation[edit]

A few academic disciplines for which dissertations are written are mentioned below.

The art disciplines[edit]

These disciplines consists of different fields of fine arts and liberal arts including painting, music, film,
classic literature and music among the most popular ones on which research is conducted. The
researcher can use empirical approach to conduct surveys of public opinion; conversely he or she
can use the non empirical approach to perform analysis on application and theory of literature, music
etc.[3]

The science disciplines[edit]

The scientific disciplines of medicine, mechanics, physics, and cellular biology are just a few
sciences on which researchers use the empirical modes to perform first hand research both in the
field as well as in the laboratory. The applications of these areas of sciences are endless and apt for
students who prefer to spend time in labs.

The discipline of philosophy[edit]

The discipline of philosophy does not have much application in the practical field, yet a person can
create a theoretical dissertation based on analytical thinking, metaphysical interpretation and several
hours of readings.

The discipline of history[edit]

The opportunities for a dissertation in this subject are spread far and wide. A student can create a
dissertation through the theoretical approach of compiling data from archives, public courthouses
and from societies of history. For a more practical approach, a student can participate in
archaeological expeditions or interview participants of past battles. The possibilities for this area in
dissertation writing are endless.
The disciplines of humanities[edit]
The study of this area might start with researching in the library, but its practical applications are not
limited to it. A student has the opportunity to go out in the field and observe the different cultures and
societies, interview people and compile case studies from real life experiences.