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Choosing a research approach

This article explores research approaches including Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods, along with corresponding designs and methods for data collection and analysis. It discusses criteria for selecting each approach based on research problems and aims, emphasizing the importance of maintaining continuity in research through philosophical worldviews. Practical advice is provided on selecting the most suitable approach based on the nature of the topic and desired outcomes. The text stresses the significance of aligning research questions with appropriate methods and avoiding choosing approaches solely for trendiness, highlighting the need to ground research in worldview perspectives for coherent and impactful outcomes.

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Choosing a research approach

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  1. Choosing a research approach Gizelle V. Carr, Ph.D. howard university

  2. Point of review/clarification • Research approaches – plans and the procedures for research that span specific steps • 3 primary approaches • Qualitative • Quantitative • Mixed methods • Research designs – procedures for inquiry • Research methods – specific data collection, analysis, and interpretation methods • Research problem – issue being addressed

  3. Quantitative research • Tests objective theories • Examines relationships among measurable variables • Uses survey instruments that produce numbered data • Uses statistical analysis of data generated • Tests theories deductively • Uses a set structure for the final report

  4. Qualitative research • Focuses on understanding meaning • Uses emerging questions • Collects data in participant’s setting • Uses the an inductive approach to analysis • Has a written report that is flexible in structure

  5. Mixed methods research • Collects both quantitative and qualitative data • Integrates the two forms of data • Uses distinct designs that may involve philosophy or theory • Yields additional insight to a research problem

  6. Maintaining the thread in research

  7. Philosophical worldviews • Beliefs about the world and nature of research • Make explicit in proposal • Four common worldviews: • Postpositivism • Constructivism • Transformative • Pragmatism

  8. Aims of Four worldviews

  9. ...Back to the thread

  10. Corresponding research designs

  11. Criteria for selecting a research approach Quantitativeapproach is best when • Identifying factors that influence a particular outcome • Evaluating the utility of an intervention • Understanding best predictors of an outcome

  12. Criteria for selecting a research approach • Qualitativeapproach is best when • The topic is new • The subject has not been addressed with a certain sample • Existing theories do not apply

  13. Criteria for selecting a research approach • Mixed methods approach is best when: • Neither quantitative nor qualitative approaches are adequate to understand a research problem • The strength of qualitative and quantitative approaches provides the best understanding • E.g., generalize findings and develop detailed view

  14. Exploratory Methods you may want to consider

  15. Descriptive methods you may want to consider

  16. Explanatory methods you may want to consider

  17. Explanatory methods you may want to consider

  18. Take home points... • Your question determines your approach • Do not choose an approach because it is “sexy”. • Root your question by clarifying your worldview. • Maintain the thread and mind the gap.

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