Week 4 In-Depth Notes on Research Design Overview

  • Introduction to Research Design

    • Research design is a vast topic crucial for the success of research projects.
    • Emphasis on revisiting core principles in various contexts throughout the course.

  • PICO Questions

    • Revisiting PICO framework established in prior session:
    • Population
    • Intervention
    • Comparison
    • Outcome
    • Importance identified for creating well-structured questions for effective research.

  • Hypothesis Formation

    • Definition: A hypothesis expresses the expected outcome of a study.
    • Types of hypotheses:
    • Improvement observed
    • No improvement observed
    • Equal improvement observed.

  • Key Terms in Research Design

    • Methods vs. Methodology:
    • Methods: Techniques and tools used to collect or evaluate data; visualized as the visible part of an iceberg.
      • Examples: Experiments, questionnaires.
    • Methodology: The underlying framework guiding the research process; represented by the submerged part of the iceberg.
      • Informs study design, analysis, and meaningfulness of results.

  • Types of Research

    • Prospective vs. Retrospective Research:
    • Retrospective: Analyzing data from past events (e.g., deaths on the Titanic).
    • Prospective: Collecting new data through designed experiments in the future.

  • Quantitative Research Methodologies

    • Quantitative vs. Qualitative:

    • Quantitative: Focuses on numerical data and controlled conditions to establish patterns and cause-effect relationships.

      • Methods often regulate variables to ensure data reliability.

    • Common Quantitative Approaches:

    • Descriptive Research:

      • Aims to describe current phenomena without causal inference.
      • Example: Tracking the use of quit smoking devices; only collects data without exploring causation.

    • Correlational Research:

      • Studies relationships between two non-manipulated variables.
      • Example: Comparing the number of questions asked by first-year physiotherapy vs. occupational therapy students.

    • Experimental Research:

      • Conducts interventions to observe their effects.
      • Uses control groups to provide context for interventions.
      • Example: Testing combinations of medications for pain relief.

    • Quasi-experimental Research:

      • Similar to experimental but lacks randomized control groups.
      • Example: Therapists using different techniques in real patient settings without control.

  • Qualitative Research Methodologies

    • Focuses on understanding complex behaviors and experiences without manipulating variables.

  • Common Qualitative Approaches:

    • Phenomenology:
    • Studies perceptions and feelings of individuals with specific lived experiences.
    • Example: Insights from prison guards regarding the death penalty.
    • Ethnography:
    • Observes cultural contexts and interactions.
    • Example: Studying behavioral patterns of isolated island communities.
    • Grounded Theory:
    • Seeks to explain processes and the progression of events within a broad context.
    • Example: Understanding software developer communication practices.
    • Action Research:
    • Collaborative process where researchers evaluate and apply findings in real-time to improve a community or organization.
    • Example: Educators iteratively improving their teaching based on student feedback.

  • Conclusion

    • The interplay between methodology (theoretical framework) and methods (data collection tools) is essential in shaping effective research design.
    • The discussion will continue in future workshops, focusing on researching design as a decision-making instrument for practical application.