Research Methodologies

Descriptive research
Purpose:

1. To describe a phenomenon, for example:
To what extent do the tenth graders use a dictionary in reading comprehension?
How can computer games be used to teach vocabulary to the fourth graders?

2. To explore a phenomenon, for example:
What were the obstacles in implementing international standard in SMA 3?
Why did SMA 3 face those obstacles?
How did SMA 3 overcome the obstacles?


Experimental research
Purpose: to determine cause & effect, for example:
Does the use of L1 subtitles have an effect on the tenth graders’ listening comprehension?
Is there a significant difference in speaking ability between fifth graders who are taught grammar and those who are not?


Ex Post Facto research
Purpose: to predict cause & effect, for example:
Is there a significant difference in speaking ability between university students who learned English in primary schools and those who did not?
Do the students who are extrovert learn English better than those who are introvert?