Assignment Details:
Data Collection/Data Processing/Data Manipulation/Data Presentation/Data Analysis/Findings The research framework from assignment 2 should be reviewed to ensure there are no flaws with the methodology and data collection method in addressing the research question. In addition, a theoretical or conceptual framework that was established should support philosophical assumptions of academic research in order to explain the structure of the research topic. The identified theory will be associated with the research framework and research data in order to address the research question and explain what happens as well as the findings.
The research study must emphasise the relevant and well implemented methods for data collection, data processing, data manipulation, data presentation and data analysis that are essential for all types of research project evaluations. This assignment provides an overview
of what constitutes ‘success’ and how the data will be collected, processed, manipulated, presented, analysed and synthesized to answer the specific key research questions of your research project. Secondary data must be collected up front which should be geared
towards the mix of evidence needed to make appropriate judgements about the outcomes of your research. In other words, the analytical framework – the methodology for analysing the ‘meaning’ of the data by looking for patterns in a systematic and transparent manner – should be specified during this assignment. The framework includes how data analysis will address
assumptions made in the theory of change about how the research was conducted to produce the intended results. In a true mixed qualitative and quantitative data methods evaluation, this includes using appropriate numerical and textual analysis methods and
where applicable, triangulating multiple data sources and perspectives in order to maximize the credibility of the research findings.
Data collection, data processing, data manipulation, data presentation and data analysis methods should be chosen to match the particular evaluation in terms of its key research questions identified in Assignments 1 and 2 and the resources available. Data presentation and d ata analysis, in particular, should make maximum use of existing data and then fill gaps with other data available. Data collection and analysis methods should be chosen to complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Students should ensure that they make use maximum use of existing data, identify and address the gaps in the data, use a range of data collection and analysis methods with appropriate data collection instruments. Further, they should ensure the selected data collection and analysis methods are feasible and the range and the quality of the data is managed in a proper manner which demonstrates skills in identifying data needs through appropriate unpacking of key concepts.
Students are advised to use the criteria for assessment below in writing up their reports. The report is to be written in academic format and Harvard referencing.
