Which methodology should i use

How to choose the research methodology best suited for your study 7 min read. Types of qualitative research methods 4 min read. The resilience that my international PhD gifted me 12 min read. Secondary research — the basics of narrative reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis 6 min read. How to choose the research methodology best suited for your study.

Popular This article is in Methods. Nikita Thattamparambil Feb 17, Reading time. Understanding the different research methods There are two general approaches to collecting data: quantitative and qualitative research.

Quantitative research In this type of research, the data collected is generally expressed in numbers and graphs to confirm theories and assumptions. Under the quantitative research method, the factual information can be collected in many ways such as: Surveys: Surveys consist list of questions in the form of multiple-choice or ratings asked either in person, over phone, or online.

In your report, before you mention the findings of the survey in the data form, you can walk your readers through the survey by introducing information like when and where you conducted the survey, how long the participants took to respond to the questions, the response rate, etc.

Additionally, you could include the list of the full questionnaire as an appendix so that your reader can see exactly what data was collected. Experiments: In this method, you perform a test in a controlled environment, and you obtain the data from it.

This type of data is used for a situation in which variables are controlled and manipulated to establish cause-and-effect relationships. It is good to include full information in your report on how you design the experiment e. Existing data: Here, you would gather data from an existing source such as publications or archival data for inclusion in your analysis. Post inputting your data in the report, include information on where did you source the material from, how the data was initially produced, and what criteria you used to select the date range.

Observations: This involves observing people in their natural environment where variables can't be controlled. Content analysis: This refers to systematically recording the presence of certain words or a set of texts to analyze communication patterns.

How to write methodology review when in article there is no methodological section? I need to write methodology from an article review…. Related Infographic. Choosing between tables, figures, and text for your research data. One of the most challenging aspects of preparing your…. Related Video. However, when considering your methodological options, you should still consider your current position on the ladder.

The three major deciding factors we looked at were:. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

This post is part of our research writing mini-course, which covers everything you need to get started with your dissertation, thesis or research project. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Overview: Choosing Your Methodology Understanding the options Qualitative research Quantitative research Mixed methods-based research Choosing a research methodology Nature of the research Research area norms Practicalities.

Qualitative Research. Uses an inductive approach Is used to build theories Takes a subjective approach Adopts an open and flexible approach The researcher is close to the respondents Interviews and focus groups are oftentimes used to collect word-based data. Generally, draws on small sample sizes Uses qualitative data analysis techniques e. Quantitative Research. Uses a deductive approach Is used to test theories Takes an objective approach Adopts a closed, highly planned approach The research is disconnected from respondents Surveys or laboratory equipment are often used to collect number-based data.

Generally, requires large sample sizes Uses statistical analysis techniques to make sense of the data. How to choose a research methodology To choose the right research methodology for your dissertation or thesis, you need to consider three important factors. Factor 1: The nature of your research As I mentioned earlier, each type of research and therefore, research methodology , whether qualitative, quantitative or mixed, has a different purpose and helps solve a different type of question.

But, what types of research exist? Broadly speaking, research can fall into one of three categories: Exploratory — getting a better understanding of an issue and potentially developing a theory regarding it Confirmatory — confirming a potential theory or hypothesis by testing it empirically A mix of both — building a potential theory or hypothesis and then testing it As a rule of thumb, exploratory research tends to adopt a qualitative approach , whereas confirmatory research tends to use quantitative methods.

Need a helping hand? First, set the goal; second, choose the method; and third, check the availability of the required resources. Keep in mind that you can outsource this work to other companies, like Premise, who can help you choose the most appropriate method and execute the project on your behalf. Learn more about how Premise can help you to fulfill your market research needs by checking out our business solutions or email info premise. Defining Research Goals and Potential Methods Defining your goals is the first step you should take in determining the specific method for your research project.

Focus groups can be homogeneous or heterogeneous. Consider using this method when you need new ideas, want to evaluate new products or packaging, develop advertising strategies, or obtain preliminary information on a product.

Interviews allow for a semi-structured format that enables the respondent to give detailed answers to the questions asked. Use this method when the research topic is potentially too personal or sensitive for a group setting, when you would like to gather deeper insights from a respondent, or when it is impossible to gather all respondents together.

Movement patterns are a method of investigation when you want to understand or explain the location patterns of consumers. Views 2, Successful research conduction requires proper planning and execution.

While there are multiple reasons and aspects behind a successful research completion, choice of best research methodology is one of the most difficult and confusing decisions. Since your research will dictate the kinds of approaches you follow, it is crucial to choose research methodology to underpin your work and methods you use in order to collect data.

The correct choice of methodology in research allows you to collate required information and accomplish the final goals of the study. In this article, we will discuss the available research methodologies and the basis of selecting the most suitable one. Research methodology is determined before research conduction. Correct choice of research methodology helps in determining the success and overall quality of your research study and its documentation. Furthermore, becoming familiar with the research methods used by an area of study allows you to understand it more effectively.

Based on the nature of your research, norms of research area, and practicalities you can choose the best research methodology for your research. Each research, irrespective of its type qualitative, quantitative, or mixed , has a different purpose and approach that helps in solving its question.