Research Stages: A 2023 Recap
In each quarter of 2023 we explored a different stage of the social research experience.
On Methodspace we delve into tried-and-true methods and emerging approaches. We try to bring you friendly, thought-provoking resources that represent diverse perspectives. In 2023 we homed in on the essentials common to all social research. We also raised questions about some of the trends influencing the field of scholarly research, including threats to academic freedom and quandaries about AI.
We explored stages of a research project, from concept to publication. In each quarter we focused on one part of the process. In this recap for the year you will find original guest posts, interviews, curated collections of open-access resources, recordings from webinars or roundtable discussions, and instructional resources. In addition to new posts, useful material from the archives has been updated and re-posted.
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First Quarter: Design Research
What will you study? What research will advance knowledge in your field and make a difference in the world? We started at the beginning of the research process and discussed issues associated with selecting and defining a research problem. We’ll work through steps involved with designing and planning an ethical research project.
Find the Q1 collection here.
Second Quarter: Collect Data
Who or what can help answer the questions or prove the hypothesis? Data is central to any qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods study. We looked at approaches for collecting and generating data from human participants as well as strategies for collecting secondary data from archives, datasets and other sources.
Find the Q2 collection here.
Third Quarter: Analyze Data
What does it mean? With data in hand, the next steps involve analysis and interpretation. We examined methods for analyzing different forms of data, including oral or written, visual or numerical.
Find the Q3 collection here.
Fourth Quarter: Write and Disseminate Findings
Who needs to know about you have discovered? How can you reach them? Academic Writing Month, November, was the centerpiece for the fourth quarter. In addition to academic writing, we explored ways to communicate findings to professionals, practitioners, policy-makers, and the general public.
Find the Q4 collection here.
Learn about connecting the unit of analysis with the qualitative methodology.