Research Methodologies: A Quantitative and Qualitative Approach
Methodological Considerations
The skeleton of a research project provides both quantitative and qualitative dimensions. It’s crucial to remember that a joint strategy isn’t inherently superior to other strategies. While it’s a valuable approach, a robust investigation benefits from employing various techniques. The validity of research lies in its methodological flexibility, allowing for an open construction of the research object. This flexibility demands a panoramic understanding of the diverse techniques available, broken down into sub-goals and observation variables.
These sub-goals, derived from primary objectives, can be further broken down. However, this carries the risk of overcomplicating the project. Justifying the variables involves two steps: explaining their importance based on perceived relevance and supporting this perception with previous studies or the researcher’s experience. Sometimes, the relevance of certain variables is self-evident due to their inherent presence within societal structures and specific fields.
Data Collection and Analysis Methods
A project should specify its technical approach and justify the chosen techniques. This justification should align with the study’s objectives and the specific context of the study population to facilitate data production. Each research practice encompasses specific techniques. Quantitative research often centers around surveys, while qualitative research utilizes open interviews and focus groups.
Each technique offers flexibility and varied possibilities for implementation. The choice depends on factors such as:
- Characteristics of the target population (e.g., income, education, age) can influence the feasibility of certain survey methods.
- The confidentiality of the subject matter may necessitate self-administered surveys to enhance respondent comfort.
- The scope and quantity of information required by the objectives can impact the practicality of lengthy questionnaires.
- Other characteristics, such as participants’ prior knowledge or the need to present materials, should also be considered.
- Urgency in data acquisition may favor telephone surveys if coverage errors are minimal.
- The financial budget plays a significant role, as different methods incur varying costs.
These aspects must be justified when choosing between techniques. The specific application mode (e.g., mail, telephone, face-to-face) should be specified. Qualitative methods often have more open and less reactive application models. While interview scripts or content analysis frameworks can guide data collection, some practices, like participant observation, require flexibility to adapt to the fieldwork’s evolving nature. The researcher’s participation should not overshadow the observation itself.
Interview scripts serve as guides for fluid conversations. In contrast, discussion group scripts structure the data and guide the discussion’s focus. While the conversation drives the interview script, the script drives the discussion group’s dynamics. A detailed script leads to a more directive dynamic, while a concise script allows for a more open exchange.