Smagorinsky on the Methods Section of Research

Smagorinsky, P. (2008). The method section as conceptual epicenter in constructing social science research reports. Written Communication, 25(3), 389-411.

In this article, Smagorinsky suggests the methods section of a qualitative research report should be the"epicenter" around which everything else is built. Alignment is needed across all sections of the paper, including the theoretical frame, methods, context, results, and discussion. He suggests three coding categories, based on his sociocultural orientation (Vygotsky, 1987). Categories include goals, tools, and setting. Along with explicitness in the method for data analysis and coding, Smagorinsky also notes the importance of attention to "disconfirming or discrepant data" (p. 397). Collaborative coding and discussion is encouraged and connects to his theoretical frame around the sociocultural perspective.In addition to the importance of method, Smagorinsky also discusses the importance of context and the need for clear explanation of it in social science research. "Results...can only make sense when sufficiently contextualized..." (p. 404).