Research Methods and Designs
Discuss the differences between the three major approaches surrounding collection and analysis of data, i,e., quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. As well as, describe the design of scientific inquiry that may go with each method i.e., survey, narrative, phenomenological, ethnographic, grounded theory, or case study and why it would be selected. Then address which method and design you think you would prefer to use to conduct research and why.
The three primary approaches to data collection and analysis—quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods—each serve unique purposes in scientific inquiry. Understanding their differences and the designs associated with each is essential for selecting an appropriate method for a given research question. Below, I discuss these approaches, their related designs, and personal preferences for research.
1. Quantitative Approach
Characteristics
- Focus: Quantitative research emphasizes numerical data and statistical analysis to understand relationships, test hypotheses, and predict outcomes.
- Data Collection: Structured tools such as surveys, experiments, and questionnaires are used.
- Analysis: Data is analyzed using statistical methods to identify patterns, correlations, or causations.
Designs
- Survey Design: Used to collect data from a large population to identify trends, attitudes, or opinions. Surveys are ideal for generalizing results across broader populations.
- Why Selected: Chosen for research questions requiring measurable data or a large sample size, e.g., understanding public health trends or consumer behavior…
1. Quantitative Approach
Characteristics
- Focus: Quantitative research emphasizes numerical data and statistical analysis to understand relationships, test hypotheses, and predict outcomes.
- Data Collection: Structured tools such as surveys, experiments, and questionnaires are used.
- Analysis: Data is analyzed using statistical methods to identify patterns, correlations, or causations.
Designs
- Survey Design: Used to collect data from a large population to identify trends, attitudes, or opinions. Surveys are ideal for generalizing results across broader populations.
- Why Selected: Chosen for research questions requiring measurable data or a large sample size, e.g., understanding public health trends or consumer behavior…
