Discussion

Definition

In research reports, a discussion refers to the section where the author interprets and explains the significance of the findings. This part connects the results back to the research questions, examines implications, and considers how findings relate to existing knowledge. A well-crafted discussion not only summarizes results but also highlights their relevance in a broader context, making connections that inform future research or practical applications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The discussion section should relate findings to the original research questions, demonstrating how they contribute to understanding the topic.
2. Authors often identify limitations in their study within the discussion, addressing factors that may affect the validity of the results.
3. The discussion can suggest practical applications for the findings, indicating how they can be used in real-world scenarios or influence policy.
4. Researchers typically reference previous studies in the discussion to contextualize their findings and show how they fit into existing literature.
5. A strong discussion helps to frame future research directions by identifying gaps in knowledge or new questions that arise from the current study.

Review Questions

• How does the discussion section contribute to understanding the research findings?
  • The discussion section plays a crucial role in helping readers understand the implications of the research findings. It connects results back to the original research questions and situates them within the larger body of knowledge. By interpreting results, acknowledging limitations, and suggesting practical applications, it helps illuminate how the findings advance understanding of the topic and inform future studies.
• What role do limitations play in the discussion section of a research report?
  • Limitations are critical to acknowledge in the discussion as they provide transparency about potential weaknesses in the study. By discussing these limitations, authors can help readers understand factors that might impact the reliability of results, such as sample size or methodology constraints. Addressing limitations also demonstrates a balanced perspective, which enhances credibility and guides future research efforts by indicating areas needing further exploration.
• Evaluate how referencing previous studies within the discussion influences a reader's perception of new research findings.
  • Referencing previous studies within the discussion enhances a reader's perception of new research findings by providing context and establishing credibility. It shows how current results align with or diverge from established knowledge, making it easier for readers to understand their significance. This comparative approach not only reinforces claims made but also highlights contributions to existing literature, helping to construct a narrative around why these findings are important for ongoing discussions in the field.

Related terms

Findings:

The results derived from data analysis, which provide evidence that supports or refutes the original research hypotheses.

Implications: The potential consequences or effects that research findings may have on theory, practice, or further research.

Conclusion:

The final section of a research report that summarizes the study's key points and provides recommendations based on the findings.