Discussion.................................. |
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UNDER CONSTRUCTION The relationship between the
RESULTS and DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION(S) sections is quite complex
and
differs between fields and type of paper being submitted. The
following
is general advice. Compare it with close reading of papers in your
field. What is the difference between a results
section and a
discussion section? The Results section
focuses on `Reporting results', the Discussion on `Commenting on
results' by
interpreting, accounting for, evaluating or comparing with previous
work. The
main purpose of a Conclusion is to summarize the research by
highlighting the
findings, evaluating and pointing out possible lines of future research
as well
as suggesting implications for teaching and learning. Source:
Yang Ruiying and Desmond Allison, English for
Specific Purposes, A
general opinion is that the discussion section is a
mirror image of the introduction. However,
research has shown that the difference
between results and discussion is not so clear. Many writers have an
extensive
amount of commentary in their results sections. It is important to read
closely
papers in your field. http://www.uow.edu.au/research/current/results.html Here is a
useful discussion
of the discussion section! http://www.languages.ait.ac.th/EL21DISC.HTM Be precise
-> The
method is robust.
-> This method is 35% faster in terms of computation time than
existing
methods; This method reduces the cost by 15% etc. A
framework for Discussion sections: Discussion
sections have a three-part framework
involving a series of move cycles combining
two or more of these eight moves: 1.
information move (background about theory/research
aims/methodology) 2.
finding (with or without a reference to a graph or
table) 3.
expected or unexpected outcome (comment on whether
the result is expected or
not) 4.
reference to previous research 5.
explanation (reasons for expected or unexpected
results) 6.
claim [contribution to research (sometimes with
recommendations for action)] 7.
limitation 8.
recommendation (suggestions for future research). The
three-part framework and move cycle series are: I.
Introduction (moves 1, or 2, or 6) II.
Evaluation (the key move cycles are 2+4, 2+6, 3+4,
and 3+5. Other less common
cycles are 6+4 and 4+6) III.
Conclusion (moves 2+6, or 8, or 8+6, or 7+6). Source: Peacock, M. System. Volume 30, Issue 4, December 2002, Pages 479-497
CHECKLIST I
have noted any problems with the methods or data. I
have explained why my results differ from previous research if
applicable.__ I have
quantified, if
possible, or given the exact results that I have achieved.____ I have
analyzed the structure
of papers in my field to show the relationship between the results,
discussion
and conclusion sections. Short papers may have the three sections mixed
together, for example. http://www.languages.ait.ac.th/EL21DISC.HTM ___ I have
identified and clearly
explained the importance of the findings. ____ I have
mentioned some
possible areas for further research, the importance of the findings or
the implications
and possible applications of the research. ______ I have
mentioned any problems
with the methods or data. ______ |
Two of
the most common
structures in Methods and Results sections are PROCESS and CAUSE AND
EFFECT Read this
page for an overview
of the difference between process and cause and effect. Here is a
reference site for
understanding process writing
including instructions. Common cause
and effect mistakes Discussion of
cause and
effect. |
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