Research, Analysis and Evaluation

Objective: Synthesise and evaluate arguments, evidence and perspectives

1. Understanding the Core Concepts

This section outlines the fundamental skills required for effective research, analysis, and evaluation in the context of Global Perspectives & Research. It emphasizes the ability to critically examine information and construct well-reasoned arguments.

• Research: The systematic gathering of information relevant to a research question. This includes identifying sources, evaluating their credibility, and collecting data.
• Analysis: Breaking down complex information into smaller parts to identify patterns, relationships, and underlying meanings. This involves critical thinking and interpretation.
• Evaluation: Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of information, arguments, and evidence. This includes considering bias, reliability, and relevance.
• Synthesis: Combining different pieces of information and perspectives to create a coherent and comprehensive understanding.

2. Synthesising Arguments, Evidence and Perspectives

Synthesis is a crucial skill for demonstrating a deep understanding of a topic. It involves going beyond simply summarizing information and instead constructing a new understanding by integrating different elements.

This can be achieved by:

• Identifying common themes and connections between different sources.
• Comparing and contrasting different perspectives on a topic.
• Developing a nuanced argument that acknowledges complexity and uncertainty.
• Formulating well-supported conclusions based on the evidence.

3. Evaluating Arguments, Evidence and Perspectives

Evaluation is not about simply agreeing or disagreeing with a particular viewpoint. It's about critically assessing the quality and validity of information and arguments.

Key aspects of evaluation include:

• Assessing Source Credibility: Considering the author's expertise, the publication's reputation, and potential biases.
• Identifying Bias: Recognizing perspectives that are influenced by personal beliefs, political agendas, or other factors.
• Examining Evidence: Assessing the strength and relevance of evidence used to support claims.
• Considering Different Perspectives: Acknowledging and understanding alternative viewpoints, even if they are not the ones being advocated.
• Recognising Assumptions: Identifying underlying beliefs or presuppositions that shape arguments.

4. Frameworks for Analysis and Evaluation

Several frameworks can be used to structure analysis and evaluation. These provide a systematic approach to examining complex issues.

Framework	Description	Example Application
Cause and Effect	Examining the relationship between events and their consequences.	Analyzing the causes and effects of climate change.
Compare and Contrast	Identifying similarities and differences between two or more things.	Comparing the economic policies of different countries.
Problem-Solving	Identifying a problem, analyzing its causes, and proposing solutions.	Addressing the issue of global poverty.
Ethical Frameworks	Applying ethical principles to evaluate actions and decisions.	Assessing the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.

5. Developing Strong Arguments

A strong argument is well-supported by evidence and logically structured. It typically includes:

1. A clear claim or thesis statement.
2. Relevant evidence to support the claim.
3. Logical reasoning and explanation.
4. Consideration of counterarguments.
5. A well-structured conclusion.

6. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

When conducting research, analysis, and evaluation, it's important to be aware of common pitfalls:

• Confirmation Bias: Seeking out information that confirms existing beliefs.
• Overgeneralization: Drawing broad conclusions based on limited evidence.
• Logical Fallacies: Making errors in reasoning.
• Ignoring Counterarguments: Failing to consider alternative perspectives.
• Misinterpreting Data: Drawing incorrect conclusions from data.