Metoodikas

Metoodikas is a term used in Estonian for the field that studies methods and methodological approaches in research and practical work. It encompasses the theory and practice of how knowledge is generated, validated, and applied, including considerations of design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and evaluation.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from metoodika, meaning methodology; metoodikas denotes the discipline concerned with methods. It is used in academic contexts to refer to the science of methods across disciplines as well as to methodological aspects within specific fields such as education, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Scope and components: Key topics include research design, sampling, measurement, data collection techniques, statistical or qualitative analysis, validity and reliability, ethics, replication, and dissemination. It may address epistemological questions about what counts as evidence and methodological pluralism.

Applications and education: Metoodikas is taught in universities as part of research methodology curricula, training researchers, evaluators, and practitioners in evidence-based decision making. It also informs curriculum development and assessment in pedagogy.

See also: methodology, research methodology, research design, epistemology, philosophy of science.