what kind of researcher are you?

The Selection of a Research Approach

Research approaches are essential plans and procedures that guide researchers through various stages of inquiry, from broad assumptions to specific methods of data collection and analysis. Considerations for Selecting a Research Approach:

  • Philosophical assumptions of the researcher.

  • Research designs that fit the inquiry's needs.

  • Specific methods of data collection and analysis.

  • Nature of the research problem being addressed.

  • Researcher's personal experiences and audience considerations.

Three Key Research Approaches

  1. Qualitative

    • Focus on exploring and understanding meanings ascribed to social or human problems.

    • Data collected typically in participants' settings, analyzed inductively.

    • Emphasizes emerging questions, flexible structure in reporting results.

  2. Quantitative

    • Tests objective theories by examining relationships among measurable variables.

    • Data collected is typically numerical, allowing for statistical analysis.

    • Structured reporting including introduction, literature review, methods, results, and discussion.

  3. Mixed Methods

    • Combines both qualitative and quantitative data to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

    • Distinct designs and philosophical assumptions underpinning the methodology.

    • Aims to yield additional insights through integration of both data forms.

Research Designs

  • Quantitative Designs: Experimental and nonexperimental designs, surveys, and longitudinal studies.

  • Qualitative Designs: Narrative research, phenomenology, ethnography, case studies.

  • Mixed Methods Designs: Convergent, explanatory sequential, exploratory sequential designs.

Mixed Methods Integration

  • Rationale for mixing: Combats weaknesses of individual data forms.

  • Types of integration: Convergence of data, using one data set to validate another, and alternating databases during longitudinal studies.

Research Methods

  • Research methods focus on data collection and analysis.

  • Quantitative methods: Pre-determined instruments for data collection (numerical).

  • Qualitative methods: Emerging data collection techniques allowing open-ended responses.

  • Mixed methods: Utilizing both formats to triangulate findings and provide deeper insights.