RESEARCH
RESEARCH
RESEARCH
There are several types of research, broadly categorized into two main approaches:
quantitative and qualitative research. Each of these approaches encompasses various research
methods and designs. Here are the main types of research:
1. Quantitative Research:
- Descriptive Research: Involves the description of phenomena, characteristics, or relationships
without manipulating variables. It often uses surveys, observational methods, and content analysis.
- Correlational Research: Examines the relationship between two or more variables without
manipulating them. Correlation does not imply causation.
- Experimental Research: Involves manipulating one or more independent variables to observe
their effect on a dependent variable. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are common in
experimental research.
2. Qualitative Research:
- Ethnographic Research: Involves immersing the researcher in the environment or culture being
studied to gain an in-depth understanding. Ethnographers often use participant observation.
- Case Study Research: Focuses on the in-depth analysis of a particular case, event, or individual.
It provides detailed and contextually rich information.
- Grounded Theory Research: Aims to develop theories based on the data collected. The
researcher systematically analyzes the data to generate theories or concepts.
- Phenomenological Research: Explores and describes individuals' lived experiences to
understand the essence of a phenomenon.
4. Action Research:
- Involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners to address real-world problems. The
goal is to bring about positive change or improvement in a specific context.
5. Applied Research:
- Conducted with the goal of solving practical problems and generating solutions. Applied research
often has direct implications for policy or practice.
The structure of a research paper or thesis typically includes an introduction, which often
consists of several chapters. In the context of qualitative research, Chapter 1 usually serves as the
introduction to the study. Here are the common parts found in Chapter 1 of qualitative research:
CHAPTER 1
1. Rationale/Introduction:
- Purpose: This section introduces the research topic and provides an overview of the study. It
explains why the research is important and relevant.
- Content: The rationale outlines the gap in the existing literature or knowledge that the research
aims to address. It might highlight the significance of the issue, practical applications, or theoretical
contributions.
2. Theoretical Background:
- Purpose: This section delves into the existing theories, frameworks, or concepts related to the
research topic. It establishes a foundation for the study.
- Content: Researchers review and synthesize relevant literature, explaining key theories and
concepts. This helps readers understand the theoretical underpinnings of the study.
6. Definition of Terms:
- Purpose: Provides clear and precise meanings for key terms used in the study to avoid
misunderstandings.
- Content: Researchers list and define terms that might have specific meanings within the context
of the study. This section ensures that readers and participants share a common understanding of
terminology.
These sections collectively serve to orient readers to the research, justify its importance,
establish a theoretical foundation, and clarify the parameters of the study. They set the stage for the
subsequent chapters, where the methodology, findings, and analysis will be presented.
CHAPTER 2
Chapter 2 of a qualitative research thesis or paper typically focuses on the literature review.
In this chapter, researchers provide a comprehensive review of existing literature relevant to their
research topic. The literature review serves several purposes in qualitative research:
It's important to note that the structure and content of Chapter 2 can vary, and some
qualitative researchers may integrate aspects of the literature review into other chapters, such as the
introduction or methodology chapter. The goal is to provide a solid foundation for the study and
demonstrate a thorough understanding of the existing body of knowledge in the field.
CHAPTER 3
1. Research Design:
- Qualitative research often employs various designs such as phenomenology, case study,
ethnography, grounded theory, or narrative inquiry. The choice of design depends on the research
question and the nature of the phenomenon being studied.
2. Research Locale:
- This refers to the specific place or context where the research is conducted. Describing the locale
is important for readers to understand the environment in which the study took place.
3. Sampling Procedure:
- Qualitative research often uses purposeful or non-probability sampling methods. Common
approaches include convenience sampling, snowball sampling, or theoretical sampling. Researchers
should justify their choice of sampling method and discuss how participants were selected.
4. Research Participants:
- Participants are individuals or groups who are the focus of the study. Researchers need to
describe the characteristics of participants, such as age, gender, background, and any other relevant
information. It's important to discuss how participants were recruited and their informed consent.
5. Research Instrument:
- In qualitative research, the term "instrument" refers to the tools or methods used for data
collection. This could include interview guides, observation protocols, surveys, or artifacts.
Researchers should explain why these instruments were chosen and how they are relevant to the
research questions.
8. Ethical Consideration:
- Researchers must discuss the ethical considerations involved in the study, including issues related
to informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity, and the well-being of participants. Ethical approval
from relevant institutional review boards should also be mentioned.