Methodology

The research methodology followed for a research project needs to be communicated in as transparent a fashion as possible, so that other researchers may understand how the study was performed and how the data was collected. If other researchers intend to replicate the study, in another context, this should also be possible after reading the methodology section or chapter. The research question is hence focused on in this section, as is the PRISMA methodology (systematic literature review) and a description of how the interviews and focus group were undertaken (qualitative data collection and research effort). The methodology section is crucial in a research project and often is what separates academic research from journalism. Experienced researchers will often first turn to the methodology section to ascertain what method was followed as if the method is not sound then the rest of the study may not be worth reading, as it will have an erroneous basis.