Research design and methodology
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Certificate in Semi-Structured Interviews course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Research Design and Methodology #
Research Design and Methodology
Research design and methodology refer to the systematic plan devised to conduct… #
It outlines the overall approach, strategies, and procedures to be followed in a research study to ensure the research objectives are met effectively.
Research Design #
Research Design
Research design is the blueprint or framework that guides the entire research pr… #
It includes decisions about the research questions, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and overall structure of the study. A well-designed research study ensures that the data collected is reliable, valid, and relevant to the research objectives.
Research Methodology #
Research Methodology
Research methodology refers to the systematic process of collecting, analyzing,… #
It includes the methods, techniques, and procedures used to conduct research, as well as the rationale behind their selection. A robust research methodology is essential for producing credible and trustworthy research findings.
Quantitative Research #
Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is a research method that focuses on gathering numerical d… #
It involves collecting data through structured instruments such as surveys, experiments, or observations, and using statistical techniques to analyze the data. Quantitative research aims to quantify relationships, trends, and patterns in data.
Qualitative Research #
Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is a research method that focuses on gathering non #
numerical data, such as words, images, or observations, to understand social phenomena in depth. It involves collecting data through open-ended interviews, focus groups, or observations, and analyzing the data thematically. Qualitative research aims to explore meanings, interpretations, and experiences in a given context.
Semi #
Structured Interviews
Semi #
structured interviews are a qualitative research method that combines the flexibility of open-ended questions with the structure of closed-ended questions. They involve a set of predetermined questions or topics to guide the interview, while allowing for follow-up questions and probes to explore responses in more depth. Semi-structured interviews provide a balance between structure and flexibility, allowing researchers to gather rich and detailed data while maintaining some consistency across interviews.
Research Questions #
Research Questions
Research questions are specific inquiries that a researcher seeks to answer thro… #
They guide the focus of the study and help define its scope and objectives. Research questions should be clear, concise, and relevant to the research topic, and should be formulated based on the research objectives and theoretical framework.
Hypotheses #
Hypotheses
Hypotheses are testable statements that predict the relationship between variabl… #
They are formulated based on existing knowledge, theories, or observations, and serve as the basis for testing the research questions. Hypotheses can be directional (predicting the direction of the relationship) or non-directional (predicting the existence of a relationship without specifying its direction).
Sampling #
Sampling
Sampling refers to the process of selecting a subset of individuals, cases, or e… #
It is essential for ensuring that the sample is representative of the population and that the research findings can be generalized. Different sampling techniques, such as random sampling, stratified sampling, or convenience sampling, can be used depending on the research design and objectives.
Data Collection #
Data Collection
Data collection is the process of gathering information or data from research pa… #
It involves selecting appropriate data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments, and collecting data through these methods systematically. Data collection should be conducted in a consistent and ethical manner to ensure the reliability and validity of the data.
Data Analysis #
Data Analysis
Data analysis is the process of organizing, interpreting, and making sense of th… #
It involves applying statistical or qualitative techniques to analyze the data, identify patterns or relationships, and draw conclusions. Data analysis plays a crucial role in generating research findings and testing hypotheses in a systematic and rigorous manner.
Validity #
Validity
Validity refers to the extent to which a research study accurately measures what… #
It is a critical aspect of research design and methodology, as it determines the credibility and trustworthiness of the research findings. Different types of validity, such as internal validity, external validity, construct validity, and content validity, should be considered and addressed in a research study.
Reliability #
Reliability
Reliability refers to the consistency and stability of research findings or meas… #
It is essential for ensuring that the research results are dependable and can be replicated or generalized to other settings. Reliability can be assessed using various methods, such as test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, or internal consistency reliability.
Triangulation #
Triangulation
Triangulation is a methodological approach that involves using multiple sources… #
It helps enhance the credibility and validity of the research findings by corroborating evidence from different sources or perspectives. Triangulation can involve data triangulation (using multiple data sources), methodological triangulation (using multiple research methods), or researcher triangulation (using multiple researchers).
Ethical Considerations #
Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations refer to the moral principles and guidelines that researc… #
Ethical considerations include obtaining informed consent from participants, protecting their privacy and confidentiality, minimizing harm or risk, and disclosing any potential conflicts of interest. Adhering to ethical principles is essential for conducting research responsibly and ethically.
Research Bias #
Research Bias
Research bias refers to systematic errors or distortions in research findings th… #
Common types of bias include selection bias, confirmation bias, recall bias, and social desirability bias. Researchers should be aware of potential biases and take steps to minimize their impact on the research findings.
Generalizability #
Generalizability
Generalizability refers to the extent to which research findings can be applied… #
It is essential for ensuring the external validity of the research study and the relevance of the findings to real-world contexts. Generalizability depends on factors such as sample representativeness, research design, and research methods used.
Mixed Methods Research #
Mixed Methods Research
Mixed methods research is a research design that combines both quantitative and… #
It involves collecting and analyzing both numerical and non-numerical data to provide a more holistic understanding of the research topic. Mixed methods research can help triangulate findings, complement each other's strengths, and address research questions from multiple perspectives.
Grounded Theory #
Grounded Theory
Grounded theory is a qualitative research method that aims to develop theories o… #
It involves collecting and analyzing data systematically to identify patterns, themes, or categories that emerge from the data. Grounded theory is often used to explore new areas of research, generate hypotheses, or develop theoretical frameworks.
Case Study #
Case Study
A case study is a research design that involves an in #
depth investigation of a single individual, group, organization, or event. It focuses on understanding the context, processes, and outcomes of the case under study through detailed data collection and analysis. Case studies are often used in exploratory research, theory-building, or examining unique or complex phenomena.
Longitudinal Study #
Longitudinal Study
A longitudinal study is a research design that follows the same group of individ… #
It involves collecting data at multiple time points to track the progression of variables or outcomes. Longitudinal studies are useful for studying growth, development, or causal relationships over time.
Cross #
Sectional Study
A cross #
sectional study is a research design that collects data from a sample of individuals or cases at a single point in time. It provides a snapshot of the population at a specific moment and allows researchers to examine relationships, differences, or trends across different groups. Cross-sectional studies are often used in descriptive research, prevalence studies, or comparing groups.
Experimental Design #
Experimental Design
Experimental design is a research design that involves manipulating one or more… #
It aims to establish causal relationships between variables by controlling for extraneous factors and randomizing participants into experimental and control groups. Experimental designs are commonly used in psychology, medicine, and natural sciences to test hypotheses and theories.
Correlational Study #
Correlational Study
A correlational study is a research design that examines the relationship betwee… #
It aims to determine the degree and direction of association between variables using statistical techniques such as correlation analysis. Correlational studies are useful for exploring patterns, predicting outcomes, or identifying potential causal relationships.
Descriptive Study #
Descriptive Study
A descriptive study is a research design that aims to describe or characterize a… #
It focuses on providing an accurate and detailed account of the research topic through observations, surveys, or interviews. Descriptive studies are useful for generating hypotheses, identifying trends, or establishing baseline data.
Explanatory Study #
Explanatory Study
An explanatory study is a research design that aims to explain the relationship… #
It goes beyond describing or predicting outcomes to understand the reasons or processes that lead to certain results. Explanatory studies often use qualitative methods, experimental designs, or causal modeling to test hypotheses and theories.
Survey Research #
Survey Research
Survey research is a research method that involves collecting data from a sample… #
It aims to gather information about attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, or opinions on specific topics. Survey research can be conducted using various survey designs, such as cross-sectional surveys, longitudinal surveys, or panel surveys.
Interviews #
Interviews
Interviews are a research method that involves face #
to-face or virtual interactions between a researcher and a participant to gather information or insights on a research topic. Interviews can be structured (with fixed questions), semi-structured (with open-ended questions), or unstructured (with flexible questions). Interviews are useful for in-depth exploration, clarification, or validation of research findings.
Observations #
Observations
Observations are a research method that involves systematically watching and rec… #
It aims to collect data on non-verbal cues, social dynamics, or environmental factors that may not be captured through other methods. Observations can be participant observations (researcher engages in the activity) or non-participant observations (researcher observes from a distance).
Focus Groups #
Focus Groups
Focus groups are a research method that involves bringing together a small group… #
It aims to generate insights, ideas, or opinions through group interactions, discussions, and debates. Focus groups are useful for exploring diverse perspectives, uncovering shared experiences, or identifying common themes.
Content Analysis #
Content Analysis
Content analysis is a research method that involves systematically analyzing tex… #
It aims to quantify and interpret the content of communication, media, or documents using coding schemes or thematic analysis. Content analysis is useful for studying messages, representations, or discourses in a systematic and objective manner.
Thematic Analysis #
Thematic Analysis
Thematic analysis is a qualitative data analysis method that involves identifyin… #
It aims to uncover the underlying meanings, experiences, or perspectives expressed by participants in the research. Thematic analysis involves coding the data, grouping similar codes into themes, and interpreting the themes in relation to the research questions.
Grounded Theory #
Grounded Theory
Grounded theory is a qualitative research method that aims to develop theories o… #
It involves collecting and analyzing data systematically to identify patterns, themes, or categories that emerge from the data. Grounded theory is often used to explore new areas of research, generate hypotheses, or develop theoretical frameworks.
Case Study #
Case Study
A case study is a research design that involves an in #
depth investigation of a single individual, group, organization, or event. It focuses on understanding the context, processes, and outcomes of the case under study through detailed data collection and analysis. Case studies are often used in exploratory research, theory-building, or examining unique or complex phenomena.
Longitudinal Study #
Longitudinal Study
A longitudinal study is a research design that follows the same group of individ… #
It involves collecting data at multiple time points to track the progression of variables or outcomes. Longitudinal studies are useful for studying growth, development, or causal relationships over time.
Cross #
Sectional Study
A cross #
sectional study is a research design that collects data from a sample of individuals or cases at a single point in time. It provides a snapshot of the population at a specific moment and allows researchers to examine relationships, differences, or trends across different groups. Cross-sectional studies are often used in descriptive research, prevalence studies, or comparing groups.
Experimental Design #
Experimental Design
Experimental design is a research design that involves manipulating one or more… #
It aims to establish causal relationships between variables by controlling for extraneous factors and randomizing participants into experimental and control groups. Experimental designs are commonly used in psychology, medicine, and natural sciences to test hypotheses and theories.
Correlational Study #
Correlational Study
A correlational study is a research design that examines the relationship betwee… #
It aims to determine the degree and direction of association between variables using statistical techniques such as correlation analysis. Correlational studies are useful for exploring patterns, predicting outcomes, or identifying potential causal relationships.
Descriptive Study #
Descriptive Study
A descriptive study is a research design that aims to describe or characterize a… #
It focuses on providing an accurate and detailed account of the research topic through observations, surveys, or interviews. Descriptive studies are useful for generating hypotheses, identifying trends, or establishing baseline data.
Explanatory Study #
Explanatory Study
An explanatory study is a research design that aims to explain the relationship… #
It goes beyond describing or predicting outcomes to understand the reasons or processes that lead to certain results. Explanatory studies often use qualitative methods, experimental designs, or causal modeling to test hypotheses and theories.
Survey Research #
Survey Research
Survey research is a research method that involves collecting data from a sample… #
It aims to gather information about attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, or opinions on specific topics. Survey research can be conducted using various survey designs, such as cross-sectional surveys, longitudinal surveys, or panel surveys.
Interviews #
Interviews
Interviews are a research method that involves face #
to-face or virtual interactions between a researcher and a participant to gather information or insights on a research topic. Interviews can be structured (with fixed questions), semi-structured (with open-ended questions), or unstructured (with flexible questions). Interviews are useful for in-depth exploration, clarification, or validation of research findings.
Observations #
Observations
Observations are a research method that involves systematically watching and rec… #
It aims to collect data on non-verbal cues, social dynamics, or environmental factors that may not be captured through other methods. Observations can be participant observations (researcher engages in the activity) or non-participant observations (researcher observes from a distance).
Focus Groups #
Focus Groups
Focus groups are a research method that involves bringing together a small group… #
It aims to generate insights, ideas, or opinions through group interactions, discussions, and debates. Focus groups are useful for exploring diverse perspectives, uncovering shared experiences, or identifying common themes.
Content Analysis #
Content Analysis
Content analysis is a research method that involves systematically analyzing tex… #
It aims to quantify and interpret the content of communication, media, or documents using coding schemes or thematic analysis. Content analysis is useful for studying messages, representations, or discourses in a systematic and objective manner.
Thematic Analysis #
Thematic Analysis
Thematic analysis is a qualitative data analysis method that involves identifyin… #
It aims to uncover the underlying meanings, experiences, or perspectives expressed by participants in the research. Thematic analysis involves coding the data, grouping similar codes into themes, and interpreting the themes in relation to the research questions.
Grounded Theory #
Grounded Theory
Grounded theory is a qualitative research method that aims to develop theories o… #
It involves collecting and analyzing data systematically to identify patterns, themes, or categories that emerge from the data. Grounded theory is often used to explore new areas of research, generate hypotheses, or develop theoretical frameworks.
Case Study #
Case Study
A case study is a research design that involves an in #
depth investigation of a single individual, group, organization, or event. It focuses on understanding the context, processes, and outcomes of the case under study through detailed data collection and analysis. Case studies are often used in exploratory research, theory-building, or examining unique or complex phenomena.
Longitudinal Study #
Longitudinal Study
A longitudinal study is a research design that follows the same group of individ… #
It involves collecting data at multiple time points to track the progression of variables or outcomes. Longitudinal studies are useful for studying growth, development, or causal relationships over time.
Cross #
Sectional Study
A cross #
sectional study is a research design that collects data from a sample of individuals or cases at a single point in time. It provides a snapshot of the population at a specific moment and allows researchers to examine relationships, differences, or trends across different groups. Cross-sectional studies are often used in descriptive research, prevalence studies, or comparing groups.
Experimental Design #
Experimental Design
Experimental design is a research design that involves manipulating one or more… #
It aims to establish causal relationships between variables by controlling for extraneous factors and randomizing participants into experimental and control groups. Experimental designs are commonly used in psychology, medicine, and natural sciences to test hypotheses and theories.
Correlational Study #
Correlational Study
A correlational study is a research design that examines the relationship betwee… #
It aims to determine the degree and direction of association between variables using statistical techniques such as correlation analysis. Correlational studies are useful for exploring patterns, predicting outcomes, or identifying potential causal relationships.
Descriptive Study #
Descriptive Study
A descriptive study is a research design that aims to describe or characterize a… #
It focuses on providing an accurate and detailed account of the research topic through observations, surveys, or interviews. Descriptive studies are useful for generating hypotheses, identifying trends, or establishing baseline data.
Explanatory Study #
Explanatory Study
An explanatory study is a research design that aims to explain the relationship… #
It goes beyond describing or predicting outcomes to understand the reasons or