Lecture 5

"Research methods and research design"

Plan:
1. Definition of research methods and research design. Importance of research
methods and research design in academic research
2. Research methods. Types. Advantages and disadvantages
3. Research design. Factors to consider when choosing a research design.
Research question/hypothesis. Time and resources available.
Participants/sample size
4. Data collection methods
5. Data analysis methods
6. Ethical Considerations in research methods and research design
Key words: research design, descriptive research design, correlational research
design, experimental research design, surveys/questionnaires, interviews,
observation, experiments, statistical analysis, content analysis, thematic analysis,
informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, avoiding harm, fair and unbiased
manner.
Research methods refer to the techniques and procedures used to collect and
analyze data in a research study. Research design, on the other hand, refers to the
overall plan or strategy that guides the research process. Both research methods
and research design are critical components of academic research as they help
ensure that the research is conducted in a systematic and rigorous manner.
The objectives of this lecture are to provide an overview of different
research methods and research designs, discuss the factors to consider when
choosing a research design, explore different data collection and analysis methods,
and highlight ethical considerations in research methods and research design.
Understanding research methods and research design is essential for
conducting high-quality academic research. By using appropriate research methods
and research design, researchers can ensure that their findings are valid, reliable,
and generalizable. Additionally, understanding these concepts can help researchers
make informed decisions about the best approach to use in their particular research
study.
In the following sections, we will explore different types of research
methods, research designs, data collection and analysis methods, and ethical
considerations in more detail.
 Research methods can be broadly classified into two categories:
quantitative and qualitative research methods.
Quantitative research methods are used to collect numerical data that can be
analyzed using statistical methods. These methods are often used in studies that
aim to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. Examples of
quantitative research methods include surveys, experiments, and observational
studies.
Advantages of quantitative research methods include:
1. Objective and systematic: Quantitative research methods are designed to
eliminate bias and subjectivity in data collection and analysis, making them more
objective and systematic.
2. Replicable: The use of standardized procedures in data collection and analysis
makes it easier to replicate the study and verify its findings.
3. Generalizable: Quantitative research methods are often used to study large
populations, and the findings can be generalized to the larger population.
Disadvantages of quantitative research methods include:
1. Limited scope: Quantitative research methods may not capture all aspects of the
phenomenon being studied, as they tend to focus on measurable variables.
2. Lack of depth: The use of standardized procedures may limit the depth of
understanding of the phenomenon being studied.
3. Difficulty in capturing context: Quantitative research methods may not capture
the context in which the phenomenon is occurring, making it difficult to
understand the underlying reasons for the findings.
Qualitative research methods, on the other hand, are used to collect non-
numerical data that can be analyzed using interpretive methods. These methods are
often used in studies that aim to explore complex social phenomena and
understand the meaning behind people's experiences. Examples of qualitative
research methods include interviews, focus groups, and ethnography.
Advantages of qualitative research methods include:
1. In-depth understanding: Qualitative research methods allow for a deeper
understanding of the phenomenon being studied, as they focus on people's
experiences and perceptions.
2. Contextual understanding: Qualitative research methods capture the context in
which the phenomenon is occurring, making it easier to understand the underlying
reasons for the findings.
3. Flexibility: Qualitative research methods are flexible and can be adapted to the
needs of the study, allowing researchers to explore unexpected findings.
Disadvantages of qualitative research methods include:
1. Subjectivity: Qualitative research methods are more subjective than quantitative
research methods, as they rely on the interpretation of the researcher.
2. Limited generalizability: Qualitative research methods are often used to study
small samples, and the findings may not be generalizable to the larger population.
3. Time-consuming: Qualitative research methods require a significant amount of
time and resources to collect and analyze data.
Research design refers to the overall plan or strategy for conducting a
research study. And its types are as follows:
1. Descriptive research design: This type of research design is used to describe a
phenomenon or behavior without manipulating any variables.
2. Correlational research design: This type of research design is used to
determine the relationship between two or more variables.
3. Experimental research design: This type of research design involves
manipulating one or more variables to observe the effect on the outcome.

When choosing a research design, there are several factors to consider:

1. Research question/hypothesis: The research question or hypothesis will guide
the research design. For example, if the research question is exploratory in nature,
a qualitative research design may be more appropriate.
2. Time and resources available: The time and resources available will also
influence the choice of research design. For example, a large-scale quantitative
study may require more time and resources than a small-scale qualitative study.
3. Participants/sample size: The number of participants and sample size will also
influence the choice of research design. For example, if the study aims to
generalize findings to a larger population, a quantitative research design may be
more appropriate.
4. Data collection methods: The choice of data collection methods will also
influence the research design. For example, if the study aims to collect in-depth
information about participants' experiences, a qualitative research design may be
more appropriate.
Data collection methods:
1. Surveys/questionnaires: This method involves collecting data by asking
questions to a large group of people. Surveys can be conducted through online
platforms, phone calls, or in-person interviews.
2. Interviews: Interviews can be conducted in-person, over the phone, or through
video conferencing. This method allows researchers to collect detailed and specific
information from participants.
3. Observation: This method involves observing participants and recording their
behavior. Observations can be conducted in natural or controlled settings.
4. Experiments: Experiments involve manipulating one or more variables to
observe the effect on the outcome. This method allows researchers to establish
cause-and-effect relationships.
Overall, the choice of research design should be based on the specific
research question or hypothesis, as well as the available time, resources,
participants, and data collection methods.
Data analysis methods:
1. Descriptive statistics: This method involves summarizing and describing
data using measures such as mean, median, mode, and standard deviation.
2. Inferential statistics: This method involves using statistical tests to make
inferences about a population based on sample data.
3. Qualitative analysis: This method involves analyzing non-numerical data
such as text, images, or audio recordings to identify themes and patterns.
4. Content analysis: This method involves analyzing the content of written
or verbal communication to identify themes and patterns.
5. Discourse analysis: This method involves analyzing language use to
understand how meaning is constructed in communication.
6. Mixed methods analysis: This method involves combining quantitative
and qualitative data analysis techniques to gain a more comprehensive
understanding of a research question.
Descriptive statistics: This type of analysis is used to summarize and
describe data collected in a study. It involves calculating measures such as mean,
median, mode, and standard deviation to provide an overall picture of the data. For
example, a researcher may use descriptive statistics to calculate the average age of
participants in a study and the range of ages.
 Inferential statistics: This type of analysis is used to make inferences about a
population based on a sample of data. It involves testing hypotheses and
determining whether the results are statistically significant or due to chance. For
example, a researcher may use inferential statistics to determine if there is a
significant difference in test scores between two groups of students.
Qualitative analysis: This type of analysis is used to interpret and understand
non-numerical data such as text, audio recordings, or images. It involves
identifying patterns and themes in the data to gain insight into participants'
experiences or perspectives. For example, a researcher may use qualitative analysis
to analyze interview transcripts to identify common themes related to participants'
experiences with a particular health condition.
Content analysis: This type of analysis is used to examine and interpret the
content of written or spoken communication. It involves identifying patterns and
themes in the data to gain insight into the message being conveyed. For example, a
researcher may use content analysis to analyze social media posts related to a
political campaign to identify common themes and messages.
Discourse analysis: This type of analysis is used to examine how language is
used in communication to construct meaning and convey messages. It involves
analyzing the context and structure of language to gain insight into how meaning is
created and conveyed. For example, a researcher may use discourse analysis to
analyze how language is used in political speeches to understand how meaning is
constructed and conveyed.
Mixed methods analysis: This type of analysis involves combining both
quantitative and qualitative data to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a
research question. It involves using both descriptive and inferential statistics as
well as qualitative analysis to gain insight into participants' experiences and
attitudes. For example, a researcher may use mixed methods analysis to combine
survey data with focus group discussions to gain a more comprehensive
understanding of participants' attitudes towards a particular issue.
When conducting research, it is important to consider ethical considerations
in both the research methods and research design. Some ethical considerations
include:
1. Informed consent: Participants should be fully informed about the
purpose of the study and what their participation will involve. They should also
have the right to withdraw from the study at any time.
2. Confidentiality: Participants' personal information should be kept
confidential and not shared with anyone outside of the research team.
 3. Protection of participants: Researchers should take steps to protect
participants from harm or discomfort during the study.
4. Deception: Researchers should avoid deceiving participants or
withholding information that could affect their decision to participate in the study.
5. Fairness: Researchers should ensure that all participants are treated fairly
and that their rights are respected.
6. Data handling: Researchers should handle data with care and ensure that
it is stored securely and only used for its intended purpose.
7. Conflict of interest: Researchers should disclose any conflicts of interest
that could affect the study or its results.
8. Cultural sensitivity: Researchers should be sensitive to cultural
differences and ensure that their research does not harm or offend any particular
group.
By considering these ethical considerations, researchers can ensure that their
studies are conducted in a responsible and ethical manner, and that the rights and
well-being of participants are protected.
Questions:
1. What are the two categories of research methods? Quantitative and
qualitative research methods.
2. What is the purpose of quantitative research methods? To collect numerical
data that can be analyzed using statistical methods, often used in studies that
aim to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
3. What are some examples of quantitative research methods? Surveys,
experiments, and observational studies.
4. What are the advantages of quantitative research methods? Objective and
systematic, replicable, and generalizable.
5. What are the disadvantages of quantitative research methods? Limited
scope, lack of depth, and difficulty in capturing context.
6. What is the purpose of qualitative research methods? To collect non-
numerical data that can be analyzed using interpretive methods, often used
in studies that aim to explore complex social phenomena and understand the
meaning behind people's experiences.
7. What are some examples of qualitative research methods? Interviews, focus
groups, and ethnography.
8. What are the advantages of qualitative research methods? In-depth
understanding, contextual understanding, and flexibility.
9. What are the disadvantages of qualitative research methods? Subjectivity,
limited generalizability, and time-consuming.
10.What is the purpose of descriptive research design? The purpose of
descriptive research design is to describe a phenomenon or behavior without
manipulating any variables.
11.What is the research design that is used to determine the relationship
between two or more variables? The research design that is used to
determine the relationship between two or more variables is correlational
research design.
12.What are some examples of data collection methods? Some examples of
data collection methods include surveys/questionnaires, interviews,
observation, and experiments.
Home assignment
Study the data https://www.researchprospect.com/how-to-write-a-research-
design/ and create a sample for a research design.