Most research involves some sort of classification. The literature needs classifying and often responses to questions, either through surveys or interviews, need to be classified also. Classification is an underestimated skill. A good classification is valuable to your own research as you can offer this as a contribution of your study. Also, it provides a foundation for you to build upon.
Classification involves grouping related items. It may appear easy but when dealing with a complex area it can be quite tricky. It assumes that the classifier has a good conceptual understanding of the area so that items or concepts can be conceptually classified.
If the classification process is proving difficult then go back to basics. Read papers on related themes to your research and examine the groups that they have used. Can any of these apply to your domain of study? Ask fundamental questions such as what are the key concepts underpinning each strand of research or data set?
It is unlikely that a good classification will fall out of your analysis first time. More likely is that it will be refined over a prolonged period. Good classifications are usually based upon simple factors so be careful of making your analysis too complex.
www.CompletePhD.com
Classification involves grouping related items. It may appear easy but when dealing with a complex area it can be quite tricky. It assumes that the classifier has a good conceptual understanding of the area so that items or concepts can be conceptually classified.
If the classification process is proving difficult then go back to basics. Read papers on related themes to your research and examine the groups that they have used. Can any of these apply to your domain of study? Ask fundamental questions such as what are the key concepts underpinning each strand of research or data set?
It is unlikely that a good classification will fall out of your analysis first time. More likely is that it will be refined over a prolonged period. Good classifications are usually based upon simple factors so be careful of making your analysis too complex.
www.CompletePhD.com
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