DefinePK

Research Objective

To identify the move structure and average length of the methodology sections of research articles in English Linguistics and Literature authored by Pakistani researchers.

Methodology

Qualitative analysis of ten research articles from high-impact journals published between 2009 and 2021, using Peacock's move-based model. The study assessed the frequency of specific moves within the methodology sections.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Select 10 research articles from high-impact journals 2009-2021"] --> B["Apply Peacock's move-based model"];
    B --> C["Analyze methodology sections for move structure and frequency"];
    C --> D["Calculate average length of methodology sections"];
    D --> E["Identify prominent and optional moves"];
    E --> F["Compare findings with previous research"];
    F --> G["Formulate conclusions and recommendations"];                    

Discussion

The study highlights a tendency for Pakistani researchers to focus on core methodological elements like subjects, procedures, and data analysis, while often omitting or giving less emphasis to research aims, questions, hypotheses, and limitations. The brevity of the methodology sections suggests a potential lack of attention to this crucial part of research reporting. This has implications for academic writing pedagogy in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for greater focus on methodology writing to enhance research quality and clarity.

Key Findings

- Prominent moves identified in the methodology sections are Subjects, Procedure, Data Analysis, and Location.
- There is a lack of standardization in the structure of methodology sections.
- Methodology sections in Pakistani research articles are shorter compared to those in other contexts.
- Move 1 (Overview) and Move 4 (Subjects/Materials) are the most frequent and considered conventional.
- Move 7 (Data Analysis) and Move 5 (Procedure) are also frequent.
- Moves 2 (Location), 3 (Research Aims/Questions/Hypothesis), and 6 (Limitations) are less frequent and considered optional.
- The average length of the methodology section is 6.0% of the total article length, significantly less than in previous studies.

Conclusion

The methodology sections of research articles by Pakistani researchers in English Linguistics and Literature are characterized by a lack of standardization and brevity. Obligatory moves include Overview, Subjects/Materials, Procedure, and Data Analysis. The average length is significantly shorter than in comparable international studies, indicating a need for increased attention to methodological reporting. The study suggests incorporating genre studies, particularly move analysis of methodology sections, into academic writing courses in Pakistani universities.

Fact Check

- Ten research articles were analyzed.
- Peacock's move-based model was used.
- The average length of the methodology section was found to be 6.0% of the total article length.

Mind Map