Chapter Five: The Introduction

1. Chapter Five:The Introduction RESEARCH DESIGN Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches Third Edition John W. Creswell

2. Table of Contents of Book Part I: Preliminary Considerations 1. The Selection of a Research Design 2. Review of the Literature 3. The Use of Theory 4. Writing Strategies and Ethical Considerations Part II. Designing Research 5. The Introduction 6. The Purpose Statement 7. Research Questions and Hypotheses 8. Quantitative Methods 9. Qualitative Procedures 10. Mixed Methods Procedures

3. Chapter Outline The Importance of Introductions Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Introductions A Model for an Introduction An Illustration The Research Problem Studies Addressing the Problem Deficiencies in Past Literature Significance of a Study for Audiences

4. The Importance of Introductions The Introduction The first passage in a journal article, dissertation, or scholarly research study that Creates reader interest Establishes the problem that leads to the study Places the study within the larger context Reaches out to a specific audience A Research Problem The problem or issue that leads to the need for a study from Personal experience Debate in the literature Policy debates Problem in society at large

5. Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Introductions Introductions take a similar pattern for all approaches, but have some differences Qualitative Introductions Problem calls for exploration May be shaped by a theoretical lens May be written from a personal, first-person, subjective point of view Quantitative Introductions Problem calls for factors and variables May advance a theory to be tested and substantial literature May be written from an impersonal, objective point of view Mixed Methods Introductions May use a quantitative or qualitative approach or a combination If one approach is emphasized or begins the study, then the introduction may follow that approach

6. A Model for an Introduction The deficiencies model of an introduction Popular approach in research Write one paragraph per element (2 pages total): The research problem Studies that have addressed the problem Deficiencies in the studies The significance of the study for particular audiences The purpose statement (see Chapter Six)

7. The Research Problem Begin the introduction with a narrative hook to engage the reader Clearly identify the issue(s) or problem(s) that lead to a need for the study Indicate why the problem is important by citing numerous references

8. Studies Addressing the Problem Review studies to: Justify the importance of the problem Create distinctions between past studies and the proposed study The use of literature in the introduction differs from the full literature review (Chapter 2) Summarize large groups of studies (broad categories) in the introduction Deemphasize single studies Include studies that used quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods approaches Focus on recent research studies (past 10 years)

9. Deficiencies in Past Literature Identify specific deficiencies in past literature These deficiencies may exist because: The topic has not been explored with a particular group, sample, or population The literature needs to be replicated with new people or sites The voice of underrepresented groups has not been heard in published literature Also tell how proposed study will: Remedy or address the deficiencies Provide a unique contribution to the literature

10. Significance of a Study for Audiences Describe the significance of the study for select audiences to convey the importance of the study Consider including: 3-4 reasons the study adds to the scholarly literature 3-4 reasons the study helps to improve practice 3-4 reasons the study will improve policy

11. Chapter Five:The Introduction RESEARCH DESIGN Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches Third Edition John W. Creswell