RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: METHODS &
TECHNIQUES
Agenda
1 Introduction to Research Methodology
2 Quantitative Research Methods
3 Qualitative Research Methods
4 Mixed Methods Research
5 Research Design
6 Sampling Techniques
7 Data Collection Techniques
8 Data Analysis Techniques
9 Ethical Considerations in Research
10 Validity and Reliability in Research
11 Challenges in Research Methodology
12 Conclusion and Future Directions
Introduction to Research Methodology
Purpose of Research Methodology Importance in Research
Research methodology serves as a systematic framework A robust research methodology is crucial for ensuring the
that guides researchers in the planning, execution, and reliability and validity of results, providing a foundation for
analysis of their research projects. It defines the principles reproducibility and generalization of findings across
that are essential for reliable and valid inquiry. different contexts and settings.
Overview of Research Methods Research Process Framework
An exploration of various research methods includes The research process typically involves specific stages:
qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches, identifying a research problem, designing a study,
each suited to different types of research questions and collecting data, analyzing findings, and disseminating
contexts, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of results, ensuring that each phase is intertwined for
research phenomena. methodological rigor.
Quantitative Research Methods
Definition of Quantitative Research Characteristics of Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is defined as a systematic Key characteristics include structured data collection
investigation that primarily focuses on quantifying methods, a focus on numerical data, objectivity, and
relationships, phenomena, or variables through the ability to generalize findings across populations,
statistical, mathematical, or computational making it suitable for large-scale research.
techniques.
Key Techniques in Quantitative Research Data Analysis in Quantitative Research
Prominent techniques include experimental designs, Data analysis involves statistical methods such as
surveys, standardized instruments, and observational regression analysis, ANOVA, and descriptive statistics,
studies that yield measurable data, facilitating enabling researchers to draw inferences and assess
statistical analysis and hypothesis testing. relationships between variables.
Qualitative Research Methods
• Definition of Qualitative Research: Qualitative
research is centered on exploring and understanding
complex social phenomena through rich, contextual
insights, often utilizing non-numerical data and open-
ended inquiries.
• Characteristics of Qualitative Research: The approach
is characterized by its focus on depth over breadth,
subjective interpretation, and the utilization of flexible
research designs that adapt to the emergent nature of
qualitative inquiry.
• Key Techniques in Qualitative Research: Techniques
such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, and participant
observation are employed to gather nuanced perspectives
and experiences, enabling a deeper understanding of Photo by Matthias Wagner on Unsplash
social contexts.
• Data Interpretation in Qualitative Research: Data
interpretation involves thematic analysis, narrative
analysis, or grounded theory, allowing researchers to
extract patterns and themes from qualitative data,
illuminating the complexity of human experiences.
Mixed Methods Research
Definition of Mixed Methods Research Rationale for Combining Approaches
Mixed methods research integrates both qualitative The rationale lies in addressing complex research
and quantitative approaches, leveraging the strengths questions that cannot be fully understood with a
of each to comprehensively explore research singular method, thus enabling triangulation and
questions and acquire a richer understanding of enhancing the robustness of findings.
phenomena.
Benefits of Mixed Methods Applications of Mixed Methods Research
By combining methodologies, researchers can validate Applications extend across disciplines such as
results through cross-verification, explore diverse data education, healthcare, and sociology, promoting
perspectives, and foster a more holistic understanding innovation and flexibility in research designs to
of the research topic. capture multifaceted aspects of human behavior.
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Research Design
Types of Research Designs Experimental vs Non-experimental Designs
Research designs can be classified into two primary While experimental designs establish control over
categories: experimental, which manipulates variables conditions, non-experimental research emphasizes
to determine cause-and-effect relations, and non- natural settings to gather data, both serving different
experimental designs, which observe variables research purposes and inquiries.
without manipulation.
Considerations in Research Design Importance of Rigorous Design
Key considerations include the nature of the research A rigorous and well-planned research design is
question, the ethical implications, and the availability essential for maintaining research integrity and
of resources, all of which guide the choice of an outcomes, influencing the validity and generalizability
appropriate design. of the results.
Sampling Techniques
Types of Sampling Techniques Random vs Non-random Sampling
Sampling techniques are broadly categorized into Random sampling enhances the representativeness
probability sampling, where every individual has a and generalizability of findings, while non-random
known chance of being selected, and non-probability sampling can introduce biases but is useful for
sampling, which relies on subjective judgments for exploratory purposes.
selection.
Sample Size Determination Impact of Sampling on Results
Determining an appropriate sample size is critical, The choice of sampling techniques profoundly impacts
influenced by factors such as research design, desired the reliability and validity of study findings, with poor
confidence levels, estimated effect sizes, and resource sampling leading to biased results and limited
availability. applicability.
Data Collection Techniques
• Surveys as Data Collection: Surveys are widely used for
collecting quantifiable data through structured
questionnaires, facilitating the collection of data from large
populations efficiently.
• Interviews for Deeper Insights: Interviews allow for in-
depth exploration of participant experiences and
perspectives, offering rich qualitative data through direct
engagement.
• Observations in Natural Settings: Observational
research gathers data by directly monitoring behaviors in
their natural contexts, providing insights into real-world
phenomena without interference.
• Focus Groups for Group Dynamics: Focus groups elicit Photo by Ousa Chea on Unsplash
diverse viewpoints through guided group discussions,
allowing researchers to understand community
perspectives and dynamics on specific topics.
Data Analysis Techniques
Statistical Analysis Techniques Thematic Analysis in Qualitative Data
Statistical analysis involves applying mathematical Thematic analysis identifies and interprets patterns
principles to summarize and analyze quantitative within qualitative data, facilitating understanding of
data, employing methods such as descriptive underlying themes and meanings across collected
statistics, inferential statistics, and hypothesis testing. narratives.
Software Tools for Data Analysis Data Interpretation Frameworks
Data analysis software, such as SPSS, NVivo, and R, Frameworks for interpretation guide researchers in
streamlines the processing of large datasets, making making sense of their findings, ensuring that
it easier to apply complex statistical techniques and conclusions drawn align with the context and
thematic exploration. objectives of the research.
Ethical Considerations in Research
Informed Consent Confidentiality of Data
Informed consent ensures that participants are fully Maintaining confidentiality is essential in protecting
aware of the research purpose, methods, and participant identities and sensitive information,
potential impacts on their rights and well-being before fostering trust and integrity within the research
agreeing to participate in a study. process.
Ethical Approval Process Importance of Ethical Research
The ethical approval process involves oversight from Conducting ethical research upholds the dignity and
institutional review boards (IRBs) to review research rights of participants, enhancing the credibility of the
protocols, ensuring ethical compliance and participant findings and fostering a positive research
protection. environment.
Validity and Reliability in Research
• Definition of Validity: Validity refers to the extent to
which a research study accurately measures what it is
intended to measure, encompassing various forms such as
construct, internal, and external validity.
• Importance of Reliability: Reliability denotes the
consistency of measurements over time. High reliability
means that repeated measures yield similar results,
bolstering the credibility of findings.
• Enhancing Research Credibility: Strategies for
enhancing validity and reliability may include using
established instruments, implementing rigorous training
for data collectors, and conducting pilot studies to refine
methodologies.
Photo by Ricardo Arce on Unsplash
• Measurement Techniques: Measurement techniques
encompass various tools and methods used to evaluate
validity and reliability, such as test-retest methods, inter-
rater reliability assessments, and validity checks.
Challenges in Research Methodology
Common Research Issues Mitigation Strategies
Research methodology often faces challenges such as Developing clear protocols, engaging stakeholders,
recruitment difficulties, data quality issues, and and employing triangulation can mitigate potential
methodological biases that can compromise the issues associated with data collection and analysis,
integrity of findings. enhancing overall research quality.
Adaptability in Approach Emphasizing Continuous Improvement
Flexibility in research design and methods allows The pursuit of research excellence hinges on a
researchers to adjust their approaches in response to commitment to continuous improvement—actively
unforeseen challenges, maintaining the integrity of seeking feedback and refining methodologies to adapt
the inquiry process. to evolving standards and expectations.
Conclusion and Future Directions
• Key Takeaways from Research Methodology: Key
takeaways emphasize the significance of a well-defined
research methodology in addressing complex research
questions and maintaining research integrity.
• Importance of Methodology in Research: Research
methodology is not merely a guideline but a critical
framework that informs study design, data collection, and
analysis, shaping the overall research process.
• Advancements in Research Techniques: Emerging
technologies and interdisciplinary approaches are driving
advancements in research methods, paving the way for
innovative methodologies that enhance data collection
and analysis.
Photo by Amélie Mourichon on Unsplash
• Future Research Directions: Future research trends
point towards greater integration of technology,
collaborative efforts across disciplines, and a more
nuanced understanding of complex social phenomena.
