A topic in research methodology
Techniques are ways of doing things. In research there are techniques to collect data, and techniques for analysing data. The choice of particular techniques is made after having selected an appropriate over strategy for the study, that is a form of research methodology.
“Carrying out research techniques will only comprise research when they are part of a coherent research plan, or research design, which needs to be informed by a research strategy. This is what is usually described as methodology: an educational research methodology guides the selection and sequencing of appropriate techniques in a study”
Taber, 2013: 43
“A simple way of thinking about methodology and techniques (sometimes confusingly called ‘methods’) is in terms of strategy and tactics. Effective research has an overall coherent strategy, which outlines the general way that the research aims will be achieved. This will translate into a set of specific tactics that will address sub-goals that collectively build towards the overall aim”.
Taber, 2013: 77-78
Techniques (or families of techniques*) for data collection include:
- Interviews (and related techniques)
- Focus groups
- Observation
- Questionnaires
- Test or diagnostic instrument
- Sourcing documents
Strictly some of these categories are best seen as families of techniques, as there are very different kinds of interviews or observations (for example).
Some studies employ multiple data collection/analysis techniques.
Source cited:
Taber, K. S. (2013). Classroom-based Research and Evidence-based Practice: An introduction (2nd ed.). London: Sage.
My introduction to educational research:
Taber, K. S. (2013). Classroom-based Research and Evidence-based Practice: An introduction (2nd ed.). London: Sage.
