ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses creating the pieces of the Methods chapter, and later how to weave them together. Writers argue for their decisions, not simply declare them. (The advice assumes that writers decide on Design in concert with their Chair, and gain their refined methods training in classwork.) The chapter will be read by experts in these methods for additional details on quantitative and qualitative research. In particular, it will discuss such issues as different headings typifying quantitative vs. qualitative dissertations, as well as other distinctions.
Section 4.1 Writing strategies for Methods chapter pieces. This section includes tying methods to objective; arguing for one’s chosen design; identifying Units of Analysis and units of observation; defending one’s site, participants, data collection and analysis techniques; writing protocols, access and recruitment plans; and addressing ethical issues. Ample examples and revisions are provided.
Section 4.2 Ordering the pieces. This section indicates how writers order and weave together the pieces of this chapter based on reader expectations. It offers insights into readers’ thought processes as they critically analyze a student’s proposal.
Section 4.3 Preparing for the Preliminary Orals and starting the study. This section offers practical steps for Preliminary Orals and for the Internal Review Board (IRB) review. These are “writing” issues in that Preliminary Orals require the student to synthesize the Proposal; the IRB review requires the student to draw from the “ethical issues” section of the Problem Statement and Methodology chapters to answer the IRB’s questions.
