Research Methods: Questions, Frameworks, and Designs
1. What is the Relationship Between Research Questions and Theoretical Frameworks?
The relationship is that the approach to the problem must utilize a theoretical framework to answer the question posed. Without a theoretical framework, it would be almost impossible to solve the problem, since the question has its reason for being within a theoretical framework.
It is important to note that a theoretical framework must be directly related to the research problem.
2. Four Functions of a Theoretical Framework
- Broadens the horizon of the study and provides guidance to the researcher to focus on their problem, avoiding deviations.
- Expands the description and analysis of the problem.
- Provides basic assumptions that respond to questions.
- Is geared towards the organization of data or events significant to describing the relations of a problem with existing theories.
3. Three General Characteristics of a Pure Experiment
- Manipulation of one or more variables.
- Group comparison and equivalence between groups.
- Inclusion of a post-test.
4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Research Designs
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Survey:
- Advantage: Relatively fast and economical.
- Disadvantage: Data may not be as accurate, as it requires a team of trained interviewers.
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Case Study:
- Advantage: In-depth and comprehensive study of one or a few objects of research, which allows for broad and detailed knowledge of them.
- Disadvantage: Only the more extreme or marginal cases can be analyzed with this design.
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Non-experimental:
- Advantage: Does not manipulate the variables; it is just observation.
- Disadvantage: No active role in the investigation.
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Bibliographic:
- Advantage: The data has already been collected, which facilitates research.
- Disadvantage: The data may be biased towards the original author’s needs, potentially hindering the current investigation.
5. Main Features of Research Designs
- Longitudinal Panel: The panel design is applied mainly in the social field for the study of changing political intentions, preferences, attitudes, or opinions. The simplest situation is to record two variables where the same sample of subjects is observed over a series of courses and historical moments. The aim is to establish, through cross-correlation techniques, the possible causal relationship among variables and the sense of causality.
- Exploratory: These are aimed at achieving clarification and definition of problems that are not well-defined. Based on the results of these research studies, further studies may be designed to provide more reliable knowledge about the problem in question. This type of study is based on a thorough review of the literature and expert criteria.
- Transversal: Collects data at a single moment in a unique time. Its purpose is to describe variables and analyze their impact or relationship at a given time. It is like taking a snapshot of something that happens.
- Field: Relevant data are collected directly from reality through the concrete work of the researcher and their team.
6. Example: Researching Lifestyles in Icalma
Objective: Investigate the lifestyles of families living in the mountain range of Icalma.
Designs: Field, Exploratory, Transversal, Non-experimental.
Variables:
- Relate lifestyles of families in Icalma.
- Determine relations in the lifestyles of families living in Icalma.
- Understand the life experiences of people in Icalma.
Hypothesis: Families in Icalma have a higher quality of life due to the clean air they breathe.
7. Further Questions for Consideration
A) What are the main elements to consider for success in the initial stages of a research project?
B) What are the main causes for a school’s management to achieve good results?