AP Research – Methods

Case Study

Deep study of 1 person, group, event, or situation using multiple sources (interviews, observations, documents) to explore, describe, or explain.

Content Analysis

Studies communication by counting or interpreting parts of texts, images, or media; can be quantitative or qualitative.

Correlational Research

Examines relationships between variables without manipulating them; measures natural variables and shows strength/direction.

Delphi Research

Experts answer multiple rounds of questions anonymously to reach agreement; controlled feedback and statistical analysis.

Descriptive Research

Describes current conditions without manipulation; uses observations, surveys, or case studies to provide baseline information.

Ethnography

Studies culture by living in it and observing; involves long-term fieldwork and participant observation for detailed cultural interpretation.

Evaluation Research

Assesses effectiveness of programs/interventions; can be formative (during) or summative (after) with practical focus.

Experimental Design

Manipulates variables to see effects on others while controlling extraneous factors; random assignment is common.

Factor Analysis

Identifies hidden patterns or factors in variables; reduces variables and uses correlation matrices.

Grounded Theory

Builds theory from systematically collected data; theory emerges through coding (open, axial, selective).

Hermeneutic Research

Interprets meaning in texts, experiences, or cultural phenomena; emphasizes context and subjective understanding.

Historical Research

Studies past events through primary/secondary sources using chronological and contextual analysis.

Narrative Research

Focuses on stories and personal accounts; collects/analyzes stories to understand meaning and temporal aspects.

Needs Assessment

Identifies gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes; informs programs and resource allocation.

Phenomenography

Studies different ways people experience a phenomenon; focuses on variation and categories of description.

Phenomenology

Studies consciousness and lived experience from a first-person view; descriptive, not explanatory.

Semiology

Studies signs, symbols, and meaning in culture; analyzes communication and meaning-making.

Trend Analysis

Examines patterns and changes over time to predict trends using longitudinal data and statistical modeling.