Architectural Research

In the past 8 months or so, I have learnt a few things about research. So that I don't forget it, and also to help a beginner in architectural (or other) research, I enlist my learning:

1.     Any research will require data to work upon. This will be either collected by readings, surveys or interviews.

2.     The way one collects, organizes or understands data drives the research.

·      The way we methodically interpret data is called Hermeneutics

·      The way we organize/classify data is called Ontological study

·      The way we understand data is a part of Epistemology (study of knowledge)

3.     At the beginning of research, one clearly defines the Scope of Study, clearly stating what one is going to look at, and what is going to be overlooked by the researcher.

4.     It is not the answer or the conclusion which is important in the research, rather how intelligently the question is asked. The mode of inquiry allows things to be looked at in a new light.

5.     Hypothesis, Postulation, Question – these are ways to begin with. They may be proved wrong or right at the end of research, which are also highly depended on the kind of data collected.

6.     In qualitative methods, it is not the amount of data, but choosing just the right “example” that will prove your hypothesis. One may just go for five cases and argue for them. In quantitative analysis, the numbers are more important.

7.     The way one presents data itself is a new way of looking at existing conditions – Pictures, stories, texts, Maps, films, audio novels, graphic novels – all are ways of seeing. A researcher has to select a medium which will best explain the intent of his study. This is called Mode of Representation.

I can’t remember anything more. Will add to the list if possible. Meanwhile, others can critique or add to it!