I am currently writing my dissertation and am getting mixed messages as to which details go in to which section. I have used an independent samples t-test with a 10-point Likert scale and I have been told that the details of what I did (past tense) should go in the methodology section, and any justification, i.e. why I used a t-test (as opposed to other options) and why I opted for a 10-point Likert etc should go in the introduction. Is this correct? So far, my methodology section is only what I've actually done, I'm unsure where I put the strengths and limitations for the methods used (t-test) along with justification. I have also been told that the limitations for my study should go in after the discussion section, which again does not seem right to me. Can someone please clarify? Perhaps it depends on subject/nature of research. The last thing is that my study is exploratory, i.e. has research questions and no hypotheses - which section should I state this? To clarify - my sections are as follows: Intro; Lit Review; Methodology; Discussion; Conclusions. Thanks in advance.
Everywhere. See http://calteches.library.caltech.edu/51/2/CargoCult.pdf for explanation.
Also, the structure of dissertations varies by discipline, country, etc.
I think that limitations are best tackled in the discussion, as the full extent of these issues should be apparent "when the dust settles," or post-results and data analysis. Moreover, in publications, the discussion section is the usual spot where limitations are mentioned and elaborated.
I agree with the above posts, in particular Aedrian A's recommendation that limitations be placed in the discussion - and that means as part of the discussion, not as a separate section after the discussion.
However, as Daniel W. has pointed out, limitations could appear in various places - wherever it would be appropriate to place them, depending on their nature.
I have seen theses in which limitations are placed at the end of the method(s) section/chapter - as a way of apologetically explaining why the research is limited. I think that's destructively premature.
A couple of other notes for you, H.P.:
1. Please check whether what you refer to as your methodology section might be better simply called Method. There is a difference between methodology and method.
2. I think you probably don't need to justify using a t-test or even using what you refer to as a 10-point Likert unless you're using those things in some unusual way .
3. Your research questions are probably best placed at, or near, the end of your introduction.
Hi Sidra..yr methodology of study is quite similar with mine. You can read my thesis that I already upload in the RG. Please do not hesitate to read. Hopefully can helps you in yr PhD journey.
Kamariah Abdullah Hello Doctor...I sincerely appreciate your assistance!
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