Start with the question
Methodology is the logic connecting your research question to the evidence you need. Before naming a design, identify what you are trying to understand, describe, compare, test, explain, or improve.
Qualitative research
Qualitative inquiry is commonly appropriate when the study seeks to understand experiences, meanings, perceptions, processes, or context. Designs may include case study, phenomenology, grounded theory, narrative inquiry, action research, and other institution-approved approaches.
Questions to ask
- Is the phenomenon clearly defined?
- Can the selected participants speak directly to it?
- Does the data source fit the research question?
- Is the analysis procedure consistent with the design?
- Have credibility and trustworthiness procedures been planned?
Quantitative research
Quantitative research is commonly used when questions concern measurable variables, relationships, group differences, prediction, or effects. The statistical procedure should follow the research question, variables, measurement level, design, and assumptions.
Mixed methods and applied designs
Mixed methods requires a defensible reason to integrate qualitative and quantitative evidence; it is more than conducting two separate studies. Applied approaches such as action research and design science should follow the conventions required by the program and discipline.
Before you commit to a design
- Confirm your university permits the proposed design.
- Verify access to the population, site, data, or instruments.
- Make sure the sample and recruitment plan are feasible.
- Identify how each research question will be answered.
- Check ethical and IRB implications early.