Research Methods in Education

Question 1

What are the 5 characteristics as an area for research?

Answer 1

1) Pupils
2) Teachers
3) Parents
4) Classrooms
5) Schools

Question 2

What are the 3 major differences between studying young people and studying adults?

Answer 2

1) power and status
2) ability and vulnerability
3) ethical issues

Question 3

What is Power and Status?

Answer 3

In a school environment, children have less power and status than adults and this makes it difficult to state their opinions openly especially if these are challenged by an adult.

This is reinforced by the hierarchical nature of school where teachers status gives them power over pupils.

Question 4

What is Ability?

Answer 4

• It is the pupil’s vocabulary, cognitive skills and confidence are more likely to be limited than those of adults.
• Pupils may not be able to understand the question, or the studies, or even be able to explain their ideas
• Researchers must take great care in how they word questions, making sure the child understands what is asked