Methodology

Methodology

Once you have a clear picture of what you know and what you want to know, it's time to think about how you will conduct your research. Methodology is the term used to describe the ways in which you gather data and acquire knowledge. Before you finalise your research question, you will need to know which methods are most appropriate for exploring it. Here is an overview, by group, of common data-gathering methods. Consult this overview before filling out an EE proposal form. Note that the IB's website on the Programme Resource Centre (PRC) offers much more detailed guidance on methodology per subject. 

Subject group

1 Studies in Language and Literature

Data-gathering methods

• study (and comparison of) primary sources

• reading of primary source(s) in light of secondary source(s)

• analysis of stylistic devices / literary features in primary source(s)

• study of translation

Points to consider

• Appropriateness of source texts

• Focus on intent, technique and reception of text(s)/primary source(s)

• IB requirements

  • Cat 1 - Studies of works in target language

  • Cat 2 - Compare a target-language work to a work in translation

  • Cat 3 - Studies in language (non-literary texts)

2 Language Acquisition

Data-gathering methods

• study of a primary source (literary or non-literary)

• reading of primary source(s) in light of secondary source(s) 

• reading, viewing and listening of secondary sources

Points to consider

• Appropriateness of source texts

• Focus on intent, technique and reception of text(s)/primary source(s)

• IB requirements

  • Cat 1 - Language (linguistics)

  • Cat 2 - Culture and society: a) impact of culture on language or b) cultural artifact (non-literary text)

  • Cat 3 - Literature

3 Individuals and Societies

Data-gathering methods

• study of primary and secondary sources

• questionnaires / surveys

• interviews

• fieldwork / observation

• experiment 

• comparison

• statistical analysis

Points to consider

• access to (scientific) articles and sources

• time to collect surveys

• time and nature of experiment 

• ethical constraints

• confidentiality and permission

• health and safety

4 Experimental Sciences

Data-gathering methods

• reading of primary and secondary sources

• lab work / experimentation

• observation

• comparison

• analysis

Points to consider

• time and nature of experiment 

• ethical constraints

• animal rights

• health and safety

5 Mathematics

Data-gathering methods

• reading of primary and secondary sources

• gathering of data from other fields and disciplines

Points to consider

• mathematical focus

• application of formulas

6 The Arts

Data-gathering methods

• reading / viewing of primary and secondary sources

• comparison of primary sources

Points to consider

• focus on medium: film, drama, oil on canvas, architecture, etc. 

• focus on intent, technique and reception of art work(s)/primary source(s)