Practical Research 2 - Research Design

Scope for the first quiz

Barrot (2017)

Research design is defined as the logical and coherent overall strategy that the researcher uses to integrate all the components of the research study

Fraenkel and Wallen (2007)

The research design of quantitative research are mostly pre-established. Hence, having an appropriate research design in quantitative research,the researcher will have a clearer comprehension of what he is trying to analyze and interpret.

1. Replicability

2. Objectivity

3. Validity and Reliabilty

4. Control of Variables

5. Statistical Requirements

Characteristics of a good research design

1. Descriptive

2. Correlational

3. Ex Post Facto

4. Quasi-Experimental

5. Experimental

Types of Quantitative Research Design

Population

refers to a collection of individuals who share one or more noteworthy traits that are of

interest to the researcher.

Sample

is a small portion of the population selected for observation and analysis.

Sampling

is the procedure of getting a small portion of the population for research.

Heuristics approach

refers to the rule of the thumb for sample size

What are the rule of thumbs for the Heuristics Approach?

Literature Review

approach is by reading similar or related literature and studies to your current research study

Slovin’s Formula

This formula is ideal for big populations. A margin error of 5% is considered acceptable.

Power Analysis

is founded on the principles of statistical power and effect size.

Statistical Power

The probability of rejecting the null hypothesis (80% To reject null hypothesis)

Effect Size

The level of difference between the experimental group and the control group.

It suggests the extent of relationship between the two variables.

Simple Random Sampling

Stratified Random Sampling

Systematic Random Sampling

Cluster/Area Sampling

Probability Sampling Method

Simple Random Sampling

All members of the population have an equal chance at being chosen as part of the sample. These are fishbowl technique, roulette wheel, or use of the table of random numbers.

Stratified Random Sampling

The population is split into different groups. People from each group will be randomly chosen to represent the whole population.

Systematic Random Sampling

The sample is drawn by randomly selecting a starting number and then selecting every nth unit in arbitrary order until the desired sample size is reached. This procedure is as simple as selecting samples every nth (example every 2nd, 5th) of the chosen population until arriving at a desired total number of sample size.

Cluster/Area Sampling

Districts or blocks of a municipality or a city which are part of the cluster are randomly selected. It is a method where multiple clusters of people from the chosen population will be created by the researcher in order to have homogenous characteristics.

Probability Sampling

Every Member of the population has a probability of being selected or included in the sample

Non-Probability Sampling

Participants are intentionally selected based on certain identified criterias

Convenience Sampling
Expert Sampling

Quota Sampling

Snowball Sampling

Non Probability Sampling

Convenience Sampling

Participants are chosesn for their convenience and availability, rather than through a random or systematic selection process.

Expert Sampling

Individuals with specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular field are selected to participate in a study

Quota Sampling

Participants are selected based on pre defined quotas to represent specific characteristics or sub groups

Snowball Sampling

Participants are chosen based on referrals or recommendations from existing participants

1. It saves money, time, and effort

2. It yields better outcomes

3. It is faster, less expensive, and more cost-effective

4. It is more accurate

5. It provides more comprehensive information

Advantages of Sampling

PRE-EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH DESIGN

is a type of research design that lacks the elements of true experimental control, such as randomization and comparison groups. It is often used in preliminary investigations to explore potential relationships or effects before conducting more rigorous studies. While it provides initial insights, its validity is limited due to threats to internal and external validity.

1. Simple and Easy to implement

2. Less time consuming and less costly

3. Good for preliminary or pilot studies

4. Useful in Natural Setting

5. Provide quick insight

Strengths of Pre experimental Research Design

1. Lacks Control Group

2. Low Internal Validity

3. Prone to many threats to Validity

4. Results are less generalizable 

5. Considered the weakest form of Experimental Research

Weakness of Pre experimental Research Design

TRUE EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH DESIGN

is the most rigorous form of quantitative research, characterized by random assignment of participants, manipulation of the independent variable, and the use of control groups. It aims to establish clear cause-and effect relationships by minimizing bias and controlling extraneous variables. This design is considered the gold standard in research due to its high internal validity and reliability of results

1. High Internal Validity

2. Random Assignment minimizes bias

3. Replication is possible

4. Strong control over variables

5. Considered the “gold standard” 

6. Allows Hypothesis testing with high confidence

Strengths of True Experimental Research Design

1. Artifical Setting

2. Ethical Limitations

3. Costly and Time-consuming

4. Requires Strict Control

5. Not Always Feasible

Weakness of True Experimental Research Design

Quasi Experimental Research Design

is a type of study that examines cause-and-effect relationships but lacks full random assignment of participants. It often uses pre-existing groups or conditions, making it more practical in real-world settings. Although it provides valuable insights, its internal validity is weaker than true experiments due to possible confounding variables.

More practical and feasible

Ethically Flexible

Good external validity

Less costly and time consuming

Useful for applied research

Can still show cause and effect relationship/tendencies

Strengths of Quasi Experimental Research Design

1. Lower Internal Validity

2. Causality is harder to prove

3. Selection bias risk

4. More vulnerable to confounding variables

5. Statistical Controls needed

6. Less Rigorous than true experiments

Weaknesses of Quasi Experimental Research Design

Clear hypothesis

Randomization

Replication / multiple trials

Valid & reliable measurement tools

Elements of a Good Experiment

Poorly defined variables

No control group

Small or biased samples

Confounding variables

COMMON PITFALLS IN EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

1. Start with a clear definition

2. Explain why you chose this design

3. Identify the Variables

4. Describe the Experimental Set Up

5. Outline the Procedures

6. Ensure validity and reliability

7. Cite Sources

8. Keep it concise and comprehensive

Guide in Writing your Research Design

1. Be precise with your experimental subjects or materials

2. Describe the experimental site/setting

3. Explain the experimental design and grouping

4. Focus on Clarity and Replicability

5. Keep it organized and logical

Guide in writing this section

• Did I name and describe my materials/subjects

• Did I describe the site or setting conditions

• Did I use numbers and Details

• Did I explain how the groups/treatments are organized

• Can someone else replicate my experiment just by reading this

Checklist when writing