Research
Methodologies and
Designs
Introduction to Research
Designs
Research designs provide a framework for conducting research. They outline
the steps involved in collecting and analyzing data, ensuring the study is
systematic and rigorous.
1 Experimental 2 Correlational
Investigates cause and effect Examines the relationships
relationships between between variables without
variables. manipulation.
3 Descriptive
Describes a phenomenon or population without attempting to
explain it.
Experimental Designs
Experimental designs manipulate independent variables to observe the
effects on dependent variables, controlling for extraneous factors.
Pre-test/Post-test Measures dependent variable
before and after manipulation.
Control Group A group that does not receive the
treatment.
Random Assignment Assigning participants to groups
randomly to minimize bias.
Correlational Designs
Correlational designs examine the relationships between variables without manipulation,
determining the strength and direction of association.
Positive Correlation
Variables increase or decrease together.
Negative Correlation
One variable increases as the other decreases.
No Correlation
No relationship between variables.
Descriptive Designs
Descriptive designs describe a phenomenon or population, providing information about its characteristics and patterns.
1 2 3
Surveys Observations Case Studies
Collecting data from a sample of the Recording behaviors or interactions in In-depth examination of a single case or
population. natural settings. event.
Qualitative Research Methodologies
Qualitative research explores complex social phenomena through non-numerical data, seeking to understand experiences,
perspectives, and meanings.
Interviews Focus Groups Observations
In-depth conversations to gather Group discussions to gather diverse Directly observing behaviors and
detailed information. perspectives. interactions in natural settings.
1. Structured
2. Semi-structured
3. Unstructured
Quantitative Research
Methodologies
Quantitative research uses numerical data to measure and analyze variables,
seeking to test hypotheses and generalize findings.
Surveys Experiments
Collecting data through Manipulating variables to
questionnaires to measure determine cause and effect
attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors. relationships.
Content Analysis
Analyzing texts, images, or other forms of communication to identify
patterns and themes.
Mixed Methods Research
Mixed methods research combines qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide a
comprehensive understanding of a research problem.
Triangulation
Using different methods to confirm findings.
Expansion
Qualitative findings inform quantitative research and vice versa.
Complementarity
Qualitative and quantitative methods provide different but
complementary perspectives.
Sampling Techniques
Sampling techniques are used to select a representative sample from a larger population, ensuring the findings can be generalized.
Random Sampling Stratified Sampling
Every member of the population has an equal chance of being The population is divided into subgroups and a proportionate number
selected. of individuals are selected from each subgroup.
Ethics in Research
Ethical considerations are paramount in research. Researchers must adhere
to ethical guidelines to protect participants and ensure the integrity of their
studies.
1 Informed Consent 2 Confidentiality
Participants must be fully Participant information must
informed about the research be kept confidential and
and provide consent. protected from unauthorized
access.
3 Data Integrity
Research data must be accurate, reliable, and collected ethically.
