Common research

methodology
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 methodology
• Framework for collecting and analyzing data
• Methodology should be appropriate for achieving
research objectives
• Should be replicable in other similar researches
• Comprises of qualitative and quantitative methods
 Qualitative methods
• Uses non-numerical data to infer and analyze data
• Used by researchers to gain an understanding of
trends, opinions and motivations
• Use semi-structured techniques to collect data
• This includes interviews and observations
 Quantitative methods
• Used to quantify the study using numerical data
• Uses measurable data to formulate facts
• Used to scientifically quantify opinions, behaviors, attitudes and
trends
• Use structured methods which include surveys and face to face
interviews
 Experimental method
• Quantitative method use in manipulation of variables
• Conducted under scientifically acceptable conditions such as
laboratories
• Used in identifying a cause and consequence of a phenomenon
• Considered successful when researcher confirms changes in
variables
 Survey method
• Use of questions to obtain information
• Researcher creates list for target population
• Researcher ask direct questions to respondents
• Research fills list based on reply
• Feedback used in analysis by researchers
 questionnaires
• Used for populations who cannot take part in interviews
• Contain multiple questions as well as open-ended and closed
questions
• Participants respond privately without external influence
• Have fairly response rates due to lack of face to face
involvement
 Interview method
• Conducted face to face or through communication tools
such as telephones
• Interviewers can use both informal or formal approaches
• Use of form to record user feedback
 Case study method
• Detailed study of a specific case
• Uses different methods to collect and analyze data
• This includes observation and interviews
• Used to generate hypotheses and validate a method
• Used in different fields to study existing theories and practices
 Observation method
• Qualitative method that involves observing a target subject
• Used where methods such as interviews and surveys are ineffective
• Includes participant and non participant observation
• Participant observation involves mingling with a target group
• Non participant observation involves observation from a distant
without involving the target
 Delphi method
• Developed by the United States military
• Involves use of panelists to generate ideas or identify an
issue
• Used in determining the range of opinions existing in a
particular subject
• Used in measuring diversity and reaching at a consensus
 References
Kumar, R. (2019). Research methodology: A step-by-step guide for
beginners. Sage Publications Limited.
Gray, D. E. (2019). Doing research in the business world. Sage Publications
Limited.
Shields, M. (2019). Research Methodology and Statistical Methods.
Scientific e-Resources.
Briggs, A., & Coleman, M. (2019). Research Methodology in Educational
Leadership and Management. In Oxford Research Encyclopedia of
Education.