Lecture 2: Methodologies and Critical Analysis.

This lecture was somewhat similar to the last, but very useful also. It explained methodology and  critical analysis, and how to ensure you look at information in a informed and considered manor, tho it is fair to have a particular perspective on it. Such as considering how the information you find is sourced, collected, calculated and presented, to ensure it is true and been found fairly and unbiasedly.

You need to know what your researching and why. You should feel in control of what you are doing. Why are you using a particular method to gather research? What are the strengths in doing it that way?

This will refer to weather it is appropriate to use which way of collecting data, what questions are relevant according to whom you may be interviewing, and why this may be the best way to collect this particular data. For example, asking a comic book artist, publisher, or fan at a convention "would you call yourself a comic book fan?" is somewhat irrelevant, as they work or have attended said convention. Asking this question on a survey aimed at random people, it may be important.

Theories
These can help you decide upon the methods you use. Alternatively the material you find may suggest the appropriate theories. Choose at least one key theory that will help with your practice.

Remember to choose the theories and methods most appropriate to your subject! This is important.

1. Make decisions about to collect and order information.
2. Choose relevant theoretical stand point.
3. Apply these to your studies.
4. Explicitly outline this in the introduction. Address suggested failings in the conclusion.



Critical Analysis
Being critical is weighting up different sides of an argument and making a selection based on an informed decision. Critical doesn't mean to choose between two different possibilities. Its about understanding different perspectives and being aware of them, and then making an informed opinion. For example, looking at Wittgenstein's Duck-Rabbit image. Some may see a duck, and others say a rabbit, but as long as you consider that the image resembles both you can make an informed decision, because you have looked at different perspectives.

Evidence
What is the evidence for what your are saying? Could you find more evidence to support your conclusion? Ensure your conclusion is coming from a well researched point of view, and you have facts / points to back up your point.

Argument
What do you want to say? Have I got evidence to back it up? Where else do I need to look in order to find more evidence? Am I expressing myself clearly and logically? To ensure your argument is logical, argue against your point to make sure it is without or has minimal flaw.

A Clear Logical Plan
- Keep it simple, refine what you want to say and focus on a few key issue.
- Look into your key issues in depth and bring in the maximum evidence to support your views,
- Discus your issues and evidence you have found in a clear and logical manner.
- Move from the general to the specific.