What is discussion and example in research
Discussion in research is the section of a research paper or thesis where the findings are interpreted, analyzed, and evaluated in light of the research objectives and existing literature. It is an opportunity for researchers to explain the significance of their findings, make connections between the results and previous studies, and provide insights into the broader implications and applications of their work.
Here is an example of how the discussion section may be structured in a research paper on the effects of exercise on mental health:
1. Interpretation of findings: Start by summarizing the main findings of the study. For example, "The results of our study indicate a significant improvement in depressive symptoms in participants who engaged in regular exercise."
2. Comparison with previous research: Identify and discuss relevant studies that have explored similar topics or obtained comparable results. For instance, "Our findings are consistent with previous research by Smith et al. (2018), which also reported a positive effect of exercise on reducing depression symptoms."
3. Explanation of findings: Provide a detailed explanation of the observed results and potential mechanisms underlying them. For example, "Our results suggest that exercise may help alleviate depressive symptoms by increasing the release of endorphins, improving sleep quality, and reducing stress levels."
4. Limitations and suggestions for future research: Acknowledge any limitations or weaknesses of the study, and propose areas for further investigation. For instance, "One limitation of our study was the relatively small sample size, which may have limited the generalizability of our findings. Future research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to confirm and extend our results."
5. Implications and applications: Discuss how the findings of the study can be applied or have broader implications. For example, "The positive impact of exercise on mental health demonstrated in this study highlights the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into mental health treatment plans."
Overall, the discussion section is an essential part of research that allows researchers to delve deeper into their findings, integrate them with existing knowledge, and provide a comprehensive understanding of the research topic.