2. Empirical Theoretical
argument is made argument is made by
based on collected reason or logic
data
data is observable or in response to other
testable texts
also called a study also called critique
4. Methodology
The theories which motivate the researcher
or underpin the study; worldview
All studies have a methodology
(Cresswell calls these the philosophical
worldviews.)
(This term is sometimes used differently in
Rhetoric & Composition.)
5. Method
Tools for data collection
Example: a survey, an
interview, artifact collection,
space mapping
6. Quantitative
Data produces numbers
Numbers are analyzed
statistically for trends
Examples: experiments &
surveys
7. Qualitative
Data produces words
Words are analyzed for trends
Examples: case studies,
interviews, & ethnographies
8. Mixed Method
Studies which use qualitative
and quantitative data
collection
Example: A survey with
follow-up interviews
Editor's Notes
The goal of Chapter One is to introduce readers to secondary research strategies and some theoretical frameworks that will help them ground their empirical study in ongoing scholarly conversations. I introduce the research process and prepare students for the beginning stages of their research project: identifying a research problem, crafting research questions, writing a literature review, gaining IRB approval, and drafting a research proposal. I also define crucial terms for (writing center) research including qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, empirical, epistemology, ontology, recruitment, data, sampling, population, institutional review boards, reliability, validity, analysis, and theory.
