METHODS OF RESEARCH IN SLA

MEETING 2: WHAT IS RESEARCH

Task of the day:

1. Investigate the notion of research in SLA context

2. Find three academic sources (list them in APA format)

Seliger, H. W., & Shohamy, E. (1995). Second language research methods (3rd ed.). Oxford: Oxford
University Press

Nunan, D. (2008). Research methods in language learning (18th ed.). New York: Cambridge
University Press

Mackey, A., & Gass, S. M. (2005). Second language research: methodology and design. Mahwah, NJ:
Lawrence Erlbaum Associates

3. Collect three quotations – short/long - defining research – make sure to provide your source
with page reference (APA format)

“My approach to research is that it is not enough for me to know my way around a classroom. I want to
become aware of what I believe and why I believe it; I want to be able to create and construct my
knowing, not (only) so I can become a more accomplished knower, but so I can be in charge of my
doing which is teaching. That’s what I think research is all about.” (Seliger, H. W., & Shohamy, E.,
1995, p. 8).

“Two alternative conceptions of the nature of research provide a point of tension within the book; The
first view is that external truths exist 'out there' somewhere. According to this view, the function of
research is to uncover these truths. The second view is that truth is a negotiable commodity contingent
upon the historical context within which phenomena are observed and interpreted.” (Nunan, 2008,
pp. 6-7).

“The American Heritage College Dictionary defined research as "scholarly or scientific investigation or
inquiry" or as a verb "to study (something) thoroughly" (2000). Thus, in its most basic and simplest
form, research is a way of finding out answers to questions.” (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 1)

4. Make a list of 20 key words that describe research (mark your sources in parenthesis in APA
format)

e.g. systematic (Seliger & Shohamy, 1989)

1 teacher-initiated (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p.14)
2 applied linguistics (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 15)
3 quantitative (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
4 Qualitative (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
5 Obtrusive (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
6 Objective (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
7 Verification oriented (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
8 Outcome oriented (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
9 Reliable (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
10 Involving replicable data (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
11 Assuming a stable reality (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
12 Naturalistic and controlled observation (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
13 Subjective (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
 14 Discovery oriented (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 2)
15 school-based (Mackey & Gass, 2005, pp. 28)
16 psychology-based (Mackey & Gass, 2005, pp. 31)
17 Applied psychology research (Mackey & Gass, 2005, pp. 31)
18 Processing-based research (Mackey & Gass, 2005, pp. 43)
19 Second language research (Mackey & Gass, 2005, p. 44)
20 classroom observational (Mackey & Gassm 2005, p. 38)

OPTIONAL:

Write a definition essay – what is research – using at least three academic sources.

Research is a multifaceted and dynamic process that plays a pivotal role in advancing
knowledge, solving problems, and shaping the world around us. It is a systematic inquiry that aims to
uncover new information, validate existing theories, and contribute to the collective understanding of
various phenomena.

Research can be broadly defined as a systematic and organized inquiry designed to discover or
verify knowledge. According to Creswell (2014), a renowned scholar in research methodology, it
involves a structured investigation guided by a set of principles and methods to answer questions or
solve problems. The nature of research is inherently empirical, relying on evidence and observation to
draw meaningful conclusions.Furthermore, Gerring (2007) emphasizes that research is characterized
by its systematic and objective approach. It follows a well-defined process, starting with a clearly
articulated research question or hypothesis, followed by data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
This structured methodology distinguishes research from casual observation or anecdotal
evidence.Moreover, Merriam and Tisdell (2015) discuss the significance of mixed methods research,
which integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches. This combination enhances the
comprehensiveness and depth of the study, providing a more holistic understanding of complex
phenomena.

 In conclusion, research is a systematic and empirical inquiry that plays a fundamental role in
expanding knowledge, solving problems, and driving positive change. Drawing insights from
scholars like Creswell, Gerring, Merriam, Tisdell, it is evident that research encompasses
diverse methodologies, serves various purposes, and contributes significantly to the
intellectual and practical advancements in our world. Gerring, J. (2007). Case study research:
Principles and practices. Cambridge University Press.
 Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approach. Sage Publications.
 Merriam, S. B., & Tisdell, E. J. (2015). Qualitative research: A guide to design and
implementation. Jossey-Bass.