Independent study reflection - Eleanor Vara

In the module Independent Study, I have investigated and utilised four different areas of research.These being: questionnaires, spoken transcriptions, corpus analysis and literature reviews.

Gaining both qualitative and quantitative data, questionnaires were a useful method to use because they allowed me to gain primary research in a variety of fields, even if these fields have a limited amount of surrounding literature. Furthermore, by gaining statistical data I was able to gain a variety of data giving way for a stronger comparative analysis. 

Learning to transcribe spoken data has been a useful method of research for me personally as it taught me the broad differences between individual speech such as false starts and elision. This has allowed me to use this method of research beyond the module to transcribe psychological metaphors for a wider project.

Using a corpus analysis has taught me that quantitative statistical analysis is an effective method to compare ideologically loaded words and using these quantitative findings to reach deeper conclusions such as the ideologies and perceptions we hold of everyday colloquial words.

Finally, using a literature review allowed me to gain a vast amount of data which strengthened my arguments throughout my review. I have also learnt that it is crucial to refine the surrounding literature and select valid points from each point of view.

Overall, independent study has provided me with the basic knowledge needed to carry out a useful investigation. 

1st Year Independent Study - Philippa's reflection 

In independent study this year, I learned how to do four tasks: (1) Questionnaire (2) Transcription of spoken language (3) literature review (4) corpus investigation.


 ~Learning how to design, distribute and analyse an effective questionnaire has provided me with valuable research skills, allowing me to carry out my own primary research. This means I am able to delve into fields in which I have a specific interest or question, even if there has been little or no previous research in that field. It means I can begin to lead my own studies and investigations into new and previously unanswered questions.

~The literature review task has taught me to look at linguistic issues from all angles and perspectives. It has taught me to consider different relevant opinions and research alongside one another. I am able to use this information to construct an argument that fully addresses the question, allowing me to come to a fair and clear conclusion. 

~The corpus investigation has provided me with a new method for analysing language, taking into account factors such as the frequency of a word use. In addition, it forced me to consider the influences acting on language and the way it is used. This means I now take a more realistic and comprehensive perspective, acknowledging not only how language is used, but also why it is used in that way. 


~Independent study has taught me to – simply – think for myself. It has trained me to analyse existing research and also come up with my own.