Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Research Paradigm: A common understanding about how
problems should be addressed.
A belief in philosophical assumptions that would influence the
process to be used to collect, analyze and interpret research data.
3 dominant beliefs:
(i) positivism, (ii) constructivism and (iii) pragmatism
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Positivism believes that reality can be identified, measured and
proven. Most likely that quantitative approach is chosen to measure
the belief of reality.
Constructivism believes that there is no existence of single reality
or truth. The reality is created by a certain group of individuals. In
this situation, qualitative approach is used to obtain multiple
realities.
Pragmatism paradigm believes the reality is constantly being
negotiated, debated and interpreted in new and uncertain situations.
Thus, pragmatism paradigm most likely undergoes mixed method
approach.
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
3 types of research approaches: (i) qualitative, (ii) quantitative and
(iii) mixed method
Quantitative approach: A means for testing objective theories by
examining the relationship among variables.
These variables can be measured, typically on
instruments/assessment tool, so that numbered data can be analyzed
using statistical procedures.
Researchers would test theories deductively, observing against
bias, controlling for alternative explanation, being able to
generalize and replicate findings.
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Qualitative Approach: A means for exploring and understanding
the meaning individuals or group attributed to a social or human
problem.
Process of research involves emerging questions and procedures,
data typically collected in the participant’s setting, data analysis
inductively * building from particulars to general themes
The researcher making interpretations of the meaning of the data.
* inductive reasoning moves from specific instances into a
generalized conclusion
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Mixed methods Approach: An inquiry that combines both
qualitative and quantitative approaches.
It is more than simply collecting and analyzing both kinds of data
It also involves the use of both approaches in tandem so that the
overall strength of a study is greater than either qualitative or
quantitative research
To triangulate the data obtained from both quantitative and
qualitative approach.
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Research Strategies/Method:
Quantitative – Questionnaire survey, experimental research
Qualitative – Ethnography, grounded theory, case studies,
phenomenological research, narrative research, archival research
Selection & justification of research methods:
Compare previous similar research – why a particular research
approach is chosen
Qualitative/quantitative/mixed method
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Research Sampling:
Who are your respondents? Why are they chosen?
Sample size for quantitative analysis – Solvin’s Formula
Qualitative analysis – 5 to 6 persons
Probability, i.e. simple random, stratified
Non-probability, i.e. purposive, snowballing
Method Data Analysis:
Quantitative - Statistical software (SPSS)
Qualitative - Content analysis (Nvivo)
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Time Scale
Cross-sectional - an observational study at a specific point in time.
Longitudinal - observations of the same variables (e.g., people) over short
or long periods of time
Data Collection Techniques
Survey method – online, postal, telephone interview
Case study – face to face interview, video conferencing
Observation
Questionnaire Design:
Pre-test
Pilot study
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Validity
The extent the assessment tool measures what it is intended to measure 100/2 =
?
Correct applicability of the instrument
Validity looks at accuracy of results
Validity has more analysis and is harder to achieve
Reliability:
The extent the assessment tool produces consistent results, when repeated
measurement or trial are made
Reliability looks at repeatability/consistency
Reliability is easier and yield faster results
Summary of chapter
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Summary of chapter
Chapter 3: Research Methodology (Proposed Content)
Introduction
Research Paradigm
Positivism
Constructivism
Pragmatism
Research Approach
Quantitative
Qualitative
Mixed Method
Selection and justification of research method
Data Collection
Data Collection methods : Questionnaire / Interviews
Sampling
Response Rate
Data analysis
Reliability and Validity
Summary