Task 6B - Tools of Inquiry

Reader 6 introduces us to the available tools that may help us when we actually carry out the inquiry in module 3. Throughout module 2, I found it very important to remember that I am collecting evidence not ‘proving’ a theory.

There are 4 main research methods: interviews, observations including participant observation, focus groups and surveys. I intend to experiment with all 4 options, record my findings and use this information to determine which method is the most effective for my specific inquiry.

Within my inquiry, I will always have to consider the need for confidentiality. I believe that pupils and teachers are more likely to provide frank and honest answers when they know that their responses are anonymous. I will assure them that, even if any interviews are recorded, they will only be referred to as “Teacher A” or “Pupil B” for example, should their comments be included in my submitted documentation. It is also important to remain non-biased, you should not let your feelings affect any data and, when interviewing, the questions must not be “leading”. The reader also recommends the collection of data from different sources and viewpoints to ensure a well-balanced inquiry.

Method 1 – Observations

This is simply watching, recording and analysing events of interest. This is considered to be the most time consuming as it involves attending a class, taking notes and then completing further analysis. However, the results obtained provide the most information and gives a real representation of what happens. Ethics, permission and confidentiality are all vitally important when conducting observations. Videoing, writing notes even taping are all acceptable ways to fully record your observation but you must ensure that the correct forms are filled out to ensure confidentiality. Ensure you have obtained consent from any higher authority such as, the head teacher or manager, before conducting your observation.

Method 2 – Interviews

This method does what it says on the tin –you collect what people say and use it as evidence. Interviews can be conducted out in many different formats, one to one, face to face, on the telephone, via an exchange of emails, in small groups using pre prepared questions or merely having a “starter” question and seeing where the conversation goes from there. You need to consider how you phrase your questions. Closed questions are fine when you just need to establish a quick response but for the purpose of this exercise about  I would prefer to use open ended questions as they give the participant more opportunity to expand their views. They can also open up avenues to more questions that you might not have considered. It is important not to lead the participant to give the answer you think but allow them to answer freely, use starters like, ‘In your experience’.

Method 3 – Focus Groups

Focus groups are more about the interaction between the participants. Bell comments “focus groups are more likely to include members who either have similar characteristics or experience… or are known to have a professional concern about and knowledge of the issues involved.” (2005, p. 162) Due to having more people asking participants to identify themselves might help when recording information and accuracy. You need to be careful to keep the group on track as the conversation can very quickly go off at a tangent.. Strong personalities can also influence the group and make the outcome less informative A seating plan can prove quite effective in that scenario but, in any event make sure that everybody gets the opportunity to air their views and it is not monopolised by a noisy few.

Gatekeeper – head teacher or manager

Method 4 – Surveys and Questionnaires

The main purpose of these are to gather data from a large amount of people. You need to think about the sequence of questions, the wording, whether the questions make sense and are visually well presented. Each question should be relevant to your inquiry.  A letter explaining the purpose of the questionnaire and thanking all participants should be attached when sending the document in the post.