Academic Writing Webinar: Session 3
On February 17, 2021, the Women's Scientific Research Committee of the Bachelor of Arts in English program hosted the third installment of a series of webinars on academic writing, led by Dr. Nada Al-Qarni.
This particular session focused on the critical task of crafting the methodology section in research papers. Dr. Al-Qarni articulated that the purpose of this section is to provide a comprehensive and lucid description of the research design and the procedures implemented for data collection and analysis. The rationale for each method chosen for the study should be clearly presented. Moreover, the methodology section should be sufficiently detailed to allow fellow researchers to evaluate the quality of the research and potentially replicate the study. Dr. Al-Qarni emphasized that this section should highlight the unique aspects of the research and assure the reader of the appropriateness of the methodology employed, thus validating the results.
Dr. Al-Qarni went on to specify certain features inherent to the methodology section. It should precisely detail the procedures and rationale that led to the data set, results, and conclusions of the empirical research study. While it does not typically include extensive background knowledge, the section should incorporate justifications, explanations, and examples.
"Four key elements should be encapsulated within the methodology," Dr. Al-Qarni explained. "These include the research design, the population sample and the process for participant selection, the data collection procedures, and the statistical treatment or planned data analysis." She further elaborated on fundamental methodological concepts such as variables, reliability, validity, and bias and error. Her presentation also covered the study design, encompassing the description of the study setting, population of interest, and sample or units of evaluation.
The webinar also saw Dr. Al-Qarni discuss various data collection methods, including qualitative research, interviews, and observational studies, supplemented by examples that clarified data collection methods and the grammatical structures and tenses commonly used.
Targeted primarily at MA and Ph.D. students, the webinar was also attended by faculty members, all of whom contributed to a rich discussion. The session was marked by active participation and interaction, indicating a high level of engagement among attendees.
