A Comparative Analysis of Research Methodologies Essay

A Comparative Analysis of Research Methodologies - Essay Example Two papers delving into learning foreign languages require a closer evaluation of research methodologies employed by the authors, to wit:   Jonathan Culpeper, Robert Crawshaw and Julia Harrison   (2008) on Activity types and discourse types: mediating advice in interactions between foreign language assistants and their supervisors in schools in France and England published in Multilingua; and Pamela Rogerson-Revell’s (2007) Using English for International Business: A European Case Study, published in English for Specific Purposes.   The study conducted by Rogerson-Revell (2007) aimed to determine the nature and role of English for International Business (EIB) with the goal of furthering measures to improve communication in international events and to use the findings in the development of effective and appropriate training materials facilitating EIB (Rogerson-Revell, 2007, p. 109). On the other hand, Culpeper, et.al.’s research was designed to address four specific objectives focusing on developing ones â€Å"understanding of interactions between French/English Foreign Language Assistants (FLAs) and their school mentors (MEs), and, more specifically, of how ‘advice’ is sought, given and received† (Culpeper, et.al, 2008, p. 297). Thereby, the Rogerson-Revel research clearly identified a concise goal while Culpeper et.al. have four-fold objectives that need to be addressed. Rogerson-Revell (2007) used the questionnaire method specifically designed to solicit both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative information focused on the use of EIB, the first language used by participants, and other languages spoken. On the other hand, qualitative data were gathered using open-ended questions on the perceptions and views of participants regarding the use of English in various international and professional meetings. Culpeper, et.al.(2008) likewise solicited both qualitative and quantitative information through audio-recorded and transcribed  information in case studies which became the basis for gathering the quantitative data needed for the study.