Full Description
The successful collection of data is a key challenge to obtaining reliable and valid results in applied linguistics research. Data Collection Research Methods in Applied Linguistics investigates how research is conducted in the field, encompassing the challenges and obstacles applied linguists face in collecting good data. The book explores frequently used data collection techniques, including:
* interviews and focus groups
* observations
* stimulated recall and think aloud protocols
* data elicitation tasks
* corpus methods
* questionnaires
* validated tests and measures
Each chapter focuses on one type of data collection, outlining key concepts, threats to reliability and validity, procedures for good data collection, and implications for researchers. The chapters also include exemplary research projects, showcasing and explaining for readers how the technique was used to collect data in a successfully published study. This book is an essential resource for both novice and experienced applied linguists tackling data collection techniques for the first time.
Contents
Preface
1. An Introduction to Research Methods
2. Data Elicitation Tasks
3. Introspective and Retrospective Protocols
4. Validated Tests and Measures
5. Observations
6. Interviews
7. Diaries, Journals and Logs
8. Questionnaires
9. Focus Groups
10. Document Data Collection
11. Constructing and Using Corpora
12. Strengthening Data Collection: Triangulation, Replication, and Realities
Glossary: A-Z of Key Terms and Concepts
References
Index
