DESCRIPTIVE

RESEARCH

MARK AUGUSTUS S.
CONSOLACION
What is Descriptive Research Design?
Descriptive research design is a type of research design that
aims to systematically obtain information to describe a
phenomenon, situation, or population. More specifically, it
helps answer the what, when, where, and how questions
regarding the research problem rather than the why.

It is important to note that in the descriptive research method,

the researcher does not control or manipulate any variables,
unlike in experimental research. Instead, the variables are only
identified, observed, and measured.
What are the Characteristics of Descriptive Research Design?

1. Quantitative in nature
Descriptive research involves the collection of quantifiable and
systematic data that can be used for the statistical analysis of the
research problem.

2. Uncontrolled variables
One of the most prominent characteristics of descriptive
research is that, unlike in experimental research, the variables
are not controlled or manipulated. Instead, they are simply
identified, observed, and measured.
3. A basis for further research
The data collected in descriptive research provides a base for
further research as it helps obtain a comprehensive
understanding of the research question so that it can be
answered appropriately.

4. Cross-sectional studies
The descriptive research method is generally carried out
through cross-sectional studies. A cross-sectional study is a type
of observational study that involves gathering information on
various variables at the individual level at a given point in time.
WHAT is the level of satisfaction of the customers?

WHAT is the behavior of the students in an online

class?

HOW do the consumers think of the product?

WHAT is the perceptions of the buyers on a certain

brand?
Why use Descriptive Research Design?

Descriptive research allows researchers to thoroughly

investigate the background of a research problem before further
research can be carried out.
There are many different contexts in which the use of a
descriptive research design is beneficial, including the
following:
1. To measure data trends
The descriptive method of research can be used to measure
changes in variables over a period of time, allowing trends to be
identified and analyzed.
2. To compare variables
Descriptive research can be used to compare different variables
and how different demographics respond to different variables.

3. To define the characteristics of subjects

It can also be used to determine the different characteristics of
the subjects. This can include characteristics such as opinions,
traits, behavior, etc.

4. To verify or validate existing conditions

Descriptive research can prove to be a useful tool when trying to
test the validity of an existing condition as it involves
conducting an in-depth analysis of every variable before
drawing conclusions.
Advantages of Descriptive Research Design

1. Multiple methods of data collection

A research can use a wide range of methods for data collection, such
as case study, observational, and survey methods. They can also
decide how they want to collect the data, online, offline, or via
phone.

2. Fast and cost-effective

As the descriptive research design often employs the use of surveys,
data can be collected from a very large sample size quickly and cost-
effectively.
3. Comprehensive
Descriptive research often uses quantitative and qualitative
research in amalgamation, providing a more holistic
understanding of the research topic.

4. External validity
Results obtained through the descriptive method of research
often have high external validity as research is conducted in the
respondent’s natural environment and no variables are
manipulated.
 1. Surveys
What are the different methods of descriptive research design?
In survey research, questionnaires or polls are used to collect information on a
specific topic from respondents. Surveys should involve a mix of closed-ended
and open-ended questions, as both have their own advantages.
2. Case Studies
The case study method involves the in-depth research of individuals or groups of
individuals. Case studies involve gathering detailed data on a narrowly defined
subject rather than gathering a large volume of data to identify correlations and
patterns.
3. Observations method
In this method, researchers observe respondents in their natural environment,
from a distance, and therefore do not influence the variables being studied. This
allows them to gather information on the behaviors and characteristics being
studied without having to rely on respondents for honest and accurate responses.
 Step-1: Outline the research objective
The next step is to identify and outline the objectives of your research and
6 Steps to conduct a descriptive research design

then translate these objectives into criteria of investigation. You must

clearly identify the different issues and questions in the context of which
the knowledge of the situation must be surveyed.

Step-2: Determine the tools and techniques to be used for data collection
In this step, you must determine the tools you will employ for the data
collection process. Some examples of different tools that can be used are
interviews, questionnaires, observation schedules, reaction scales, etc.
 Step-3: Define​​the target population and sample group
In the fourth step, you will have to outline your target population. The
target population is the group of individuals that you are examining in
6 Steps to conduct a descriptive research design

your research study. Additionally, unless you are conducting a census

study and collecting data from the entire population, you must select a
sample group.

Step-4: Select a method for data collection

In the data collection stage, you must have a clear plan of how your data
will be collected. This involves clearly outlining the type of data you
require, the tools that will be used to gather it, the level of training
required by researchers to collect the data, the time required for data
collection and fieldwork, and so on.
 Step-5: Analyse the data collected
Once you’ve collected your data, you reach the sixth stage of descriptive
6 Steps to conduct a descriptive research design

research: data analysis. In this stage, you will have to evaluate all the data
collected from all your different sources, quantify and qualify them, and
then categorize them component-wise.

Step-6: Write the report

The final step of survey research involves writing the report. As survey
research involves working with extensive data, it is important to keep the
focus of the investigation in mind. The report must be precise and
objective-oriented.