How is a research paper usually structured?
- Introduction
- Literature review
- Theoretical framework
- Methodology
- Findings
- Discussion and conclusions
- References
However, this paper (see the link below) reverses the positions of the literature review and theoretical framework.
Does this violate the academic standard?
==> NO. Instead, it demonstrates the versatility of theoretical application in research.
We know that theories can be used for multiple purposes in research (ranging from basic to complex applications):
1. Methodology guidance: Informing your choice of research methods.
2. Framework for analysis: Structuring your approach to analyzing data.
3. Hypothesis generation: Deriving testable hypotheses.
4. Interpretation of results: Contextualizing your findings within the theoretical framework.
5. Comparative analysis: Comparing multiple theories to see which best explains your observations.
6. Critical evaluation: Assessing the theory's strengths and limitations based on your research outcomes.
7. Extension or refinement: Suggesting modifications to the theory based on your results.
8. Operationalization: Translating abstract concepts into measurable variables.
The difference in this paper provides another theoretical application: Guide and structure your literature review, situating your research within a broader academic context.
This paper applied Push-Pull theory to examine international students’ decisions to study abroad. However, the researchers noted that previous studies on the same topic often focus on single level of analysis, particularly, sub-factors belonging to Push and Pull factors. Recognizing that these decisions are influenced by numerous, complex, and interrelated factors, they expanded their application of theory. They combined this theory and insights from existing literature to structure their literature review AND their findings into three levels:
- Micro (personal)
- Macro (national)
- Meso (external/environmental)
This application transcends the traditional thematic approach to literature review and findings presentation. It offers a more nuanced, multi-level analysis that contextualizes the research within the broader academic landscape, setting it apart from other studies in the field.
Link to the paper: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1125723.pdf
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Brainy Bites is a series where I share ONE key insight from a research paper I've read recently. These insights focus on research methodology and how researcher(s) do their research rather than subject matter, making them applicable across various fields.
Each "bite" is a concise, thought-provoking piece of knowledge – a quick intellectual snack that's both informative and inspiring. By highlighting research approaches, these bites aim to enhance your research skills, regardless of your specific area of study.
By Thu Le - Lecturer
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