Step by step
Abstract
This step-by-step chapter guides you through the purpose and content of a research design and methods chapter. As part of this, the chapter explains how this content can often be a weakness or missed opportunity in dissertations when students treat this content in a formulaic manner. The chapter sets out advice on the purpose and approaches to structuring this content in a dissertation and the importance of succinctly justifying the approach taken and decisions made in relation to methods of data collection and analysis. Specific guidance on sections, including ethics, positionality, and changes to methods, is also provided.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Doctoral Education Challenges and Solutions
Educational Research and Methods
Qualitative Research Methods and Applications
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 86–98
- Publication date
- 6 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter