Chapter 7: Research Questions and Hypotheses (Research Design and Methods)

Exploratory verbs for qualitative research questions

report, describe, discover, seek, explore, describe

Exploratory verbs used for quantitative research questions

cause - effect

What is the number of suggested central research questions and research subquestions for qualitative research

There should be 1-2 broad central questions for exploration of the central phenomenon.

There should be 5-7 sub-questions that narrow the focus of the study

What does the central research question describe and what other information does it portray?

• It is broad and ask for exploration of the central concept

• It explores the general, complex factors about the central concept

• It presents broad perspectives or meanings

• begins with “what” or “how” to convey an open or emerging design

What do the sub-research question describe and what other information does it portray?

• they narrow the focus but leave open the questioning

• relates the central question to the strategy of inquiry

  • ethnography - culture sharing group

  • critical ethnography - build on an existing literature

  • phenomenology - what participants experienced

  • grounded theory - generate a theory (using sub themes/questions)

What demographic data is often used for independent variables ?

The variable that is manipulated or categorized to examine its effect.

What demographic data is often used for dependent variables?

The outcome or effect being measured.

What demographic data is often used for mediating variables ?

Explains the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

What demographic data is often used for moderating variables?

Influences the strength or direction of the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

What 3 forms can a mixed methods research question take?

1. Convergent (Parallel) Questions – Compare or integrate quantitative and qualitative findings to see how they complement each other.

2. Explanatory (Sequential) Questions – Use quantitative results to guide a deeper qualitative exploration.

3. Exploratory (Sequential) Questions – Start with qualitative data to develop or refine quantitative measures.

Difference between null and alternative experimental hypotheses?

Null Hypothesis (H₀): States that there is no effect, difference, or relationship between variables. It assumes any observed changes are due to chance.

Alternative Hypothesis (H₁ or Hₐ): States that there is an effect, difference, or relationship between variables. It is what the researcher aims to support.

Need for multiple research questions explained by mixed methods research question in mixed
methods research

• Capture Comprehensive Insights: Quantitative questions focus on numerical patterns, while qualitative questions explore deeper meanings.

• Ensure Methodological Alignment: Each question aligns with either the qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods phase.

• Facilitate Integration: A mixed methods question connects and explains how both types of data interact.

• Enhance Validity: Addressing a topic from multiple angles strengthens conclusions.