Evaluating Methods in Context

This lesson brings together the knowledge developed across the course to provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating any research method when applied to the study of education. In the AQA Methods in Context question, you must demonstrate the ability to weigh up the strengths and limitations of a named method for investigating a specific educational topic. This requires more than listing advantages and disadvantages — it demands sustained, applied evaluation that considers practical, ethical, and theoretical issues in relation to both the method and the educational context described in the Item.

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What Does 'Evaluation' Mean in Methods in Context?

Evaluation in the context of a Methods in Context answer means making judgements about the suitability of a method for researching a particular educational topic. This involves:

1. Identifying the strengths and limitations of the method
2. Applying these to the specific educational context described in the Item
3. Weighing up the relative importance of different issues
4. Reaching conclusions about the overall suitability of the method