The main goal of the scientific research methodology is the provision of the general theoretic principles for solving the formulated tasks and issues (Garcia 10). Each of the historical research methods can be regarded as the set of specific technical rules and procedures as well as a complex of the ideas and approaches. However, according to John Tosh (2000), the research rules cannot be reduced to a unified formula, and the specific analytical procedures vary depending on the character of the source (p. 102).
Nowadays, there is a great variety of historical research methods, and many prominent researchers use a system of methods in their studies. Understanding of the standards and regulations of the research methodology helps to implement the appropriate techniques for attaining valid and reliable data that will help to evaluate the interrelations between the past and modern historical events.
Historical-Comparative Research
Comparison is one of the basic principles of the scientific cognition. The logical foundation for the comparative method is the analogy that is the similarity between the events and objects. According to the principle of analogy, the similarity in the external features of the objects implies the existence of common qualities in these objects (Li 3). The analogy concept is not sufficient in itself, and the in-depth scientific analysis is required. The researcher’s goal is the comprehension of the events’ similarity in features and qualities. And the comparative research is one of the most helpful methods for the achievement of this goal (Kang 233).
For attaining greater results, it is important to design a research plan and then conduct it in a consistent way. The historical-comparative research usually consists of six steps: formulation of the idea and research questions, evidence collection and literature review, evaluation of evidence, organization of evidence, synthesis, explanation and discussion of findings. The given model facilitates the conduction and management of the research process making it more effective and efficient.
The limitation of the given research method relates to the fact that incorrect application of the external analogies may lead to the unreasonable and inadequate conclusions. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the comparison is drawn between the maximally proximate objects or events. In this way, the examination of a specific historic event will assist in finding the corresponding evidence for the theories and hypotheses.
Oral History Research Method
Overall, history may be regarded as the narration about the events. Therefore, the oral methods that include personal interviews and observation are valuable for the historical research in general. The oral and narrative methods’ significance is recognized by many researchers; nevertheless, it cannot be a sufficient technique in itself because of a high level of subjectivity and individualization of the received data.
While using this method, a researcher locates historical information from personal archives, literature, and records to find cohesion between the discussed events and synthesize in a logical way. The identification of the causal relationships and factors is needed. The findings obtained through oral research method are valuable for the primary analysis of the historical events. However, the further in-depth analysis must follow.
It is possible to assume that the systematic historical analysis is not possible without the oral research findings and identification of the cohesion between the facts of history. The method of oral history research assists in the conceptualization of ideas and formulation of theories. Therefore, it provides guidance in the further analysis and investigation. Analysis and theory are the essential elements of historical research and are complementary to each other.
Works Cited
Garcia, Gregorio Delgado. “Concepts and Methodology of Historical Research.” Revista Cubana de Salud Publica 36.1 (2010): 9-18. Print.
Kang, Nahee. “Towards Middle-Range Theory Building in Development Research: Comparative (Historical) Institutional Analysis of Institutional Transplantation.”Progress in Development Studies 14.3 (2014): 221-35. Print.
Li, Aisi. “Historical Research in Comparative Education: A Discussion of some Methodological Issues.” Research in Comparative and International Education 8.1 (2013): 1-17. Print.
Tosh, John. The Pursuit of History. New York, NY: Routledge, 2000. Print.