Chapter 3: Methodology

3.1 Research Design

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) are playing an increasingly important role in

railways, offering potential improvements in safety, efficiency, and sustainability (Wang &
Meng, 2017). However, a more comprehensive understanding of ITS impact on railway systems
is needed. This quantitative research study aims to assess ITS in railways and use findings to
inform the design of an alternative railway power source using piezoelectric materials.

The present study employs a quantitative research design, characterized by the systematic
examination of phenomena through the collection of measurable data from a representative
sample of participants, utilizing standardized research instruments (Creswell, 2014). The
utilization of a quantitative research strategy is considered suitable for this study due to its
capacity to facilitate the acquisition of objective and quantifiable data, which can subsequently
be generalized to a larger population.

3.2 Research Locale and Research Participants

3.3 Sampling Method

The suitability of judgmental sampling as a non-probability sampling method for

evaluating Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in railways has been acknowledged. The
selection of participants with a deep understanding of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
and their ability to provide valuable insights into the potential of piezoelectric power sources for
railways is facilitated by this approach. The use of judgmental sampling can be employed by
researchers to select participants from various groups, including railway engineers, railway
managers, railway policymakers, and experts in piezoelectric materials and energy harvesting.

3.4 Research Instrument

The study employs a carefully constructed survey questionnaire, developed by the

researchers, to collect data. The questionnaire is specifically designed for respondents to
complete using the Google Forms platform. A comprehensive assessment of the prerequisites for
data development and analysis was conducted prior to the creation of these instruments.
3.5 Data Gathering Procedure

The development of questionnaires was crucial in obtaining the necessary data for this
study, as it facilitated the resolution of the research problem. The validation of the researchers'
questionnaire was conducted by the research adviser, who provided suggestions for
improvement, leading to the finalization of the interview questions.

The distribution of consent forms and questionnaires to respondents, along with an

explanation of the study's purpose, will be facilitated by the researchers upon receiving
permission.

Afterwards, the researchers will compile, analyze, assess, and interpret the data acquired
from the survey questions.

3.6 Ethical Considerations

3.7 Statistical Treatment of the Data

References:
Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications. https://study.sagepub.com/creswellrd4e
Wang, Y., & Meng, Q. (2017). Impact of intelligent transportation system (ITS) on train
delay reduction: A case study of Beijing Subway. Journal of Advanced Transportation, 2017, 1-
12.