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Research Methods (ENG -319): Course Outline (ENG-319)

Research methods are the techniques, processes, system or procedure followed where data or information is created and then analyzed

Course description

The course introduces research methods that are appropriate for relevant research in language classrooms, each session will consist of a mixture of lectures, discussions, and workshop activities.

Course objectives

At the completion of the course the students will be able to:

  • Discriminate among different research types for their relative importance in dealing with research problems in respective domains of ELT and Linguistics
  • Identify the researchable problems facing the school teaching and learning
  • Develop a research proposal/plan

Teaching-learning Strategies

Teaching will be done through the lecture method with a combination of tasks/projects and presentations

Assessment and Examinations

Assessment will be done as per university/department policy.

Course contents

Unit I: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods of research

  • The qualitative-quantitative distinction
  • Quantitative research
  • Qualitative research
  • Mixed methods research

Unit II: Identification, selection, and stating of research problem

  • Development of hypothesis/research question
  • Types of hypothesis
  • Statement of hypothesis
  • Hypothesis or research question?

Unit III: Review of related research

    •  
  • Sources of literature
  • Process of conducting a literature review
  • Reporting the review to develop a case for proposed research
  • APA style
  • How to avoid plagiarism

Unit IV: Samples and population

  • Definition and purpose
  • Techniques of sampling
  • Probability sampling techniques: Random, stratified, cluster, and systematic sampling
  • Non-probability sampling techniques: Convenience, Purposive/judgmental, snowball, and quota sampling

Unit V: Data collection

  • Development of instruments for quantitative studies
  1. Survey questionnaires
  2. Observation schedules
  3. Using existing data

Research instruments for qualitative studies

  1. Interviews
  2. Diaries
  3. Field notes
  • How to conduct interviews?
  • Reliability and validity of instruments
  • Ethical considerations
  • Planning for data collection
  • Preparation for analysis

Unit VI: Research proposal

      •  
  • Introduction of the proposed topic
  • Hypothesis/research questions
  • Methodology
  • Tentative time schedule for various stages of the research
  • List of resources available
  • Final report writing
  • Types of research report (Thesis, journal articles, conference papers etc.)

Textbooks

Suggested Books