Research Methodology

Quantitative Methodology

Research Methodology is a critical component of any research exercise as it can make the difference between a completely irrelevant and a completely relevant exercise. The research methodology underlying a multimillion dollar research project can make the difference between completely accurate and completely inaccurate results. The underlying methods or processes may have been accurately completed

Understanding Research Methodology and Method

Research methodology is thus the foundation or general rules that determine the accuracy and validity of any research activity. It’s important to understand the difference between the terms ‘methodology’ and ‘method’. Its former refers to the general rules and guidelines for a set of methods and explains why a specific strategy is applied to address a particular research question.

Research methodology can cover the following three key areas of research:

  • Survey design
  • Data collection
  • Data analysis

Research methodology determines how to design a specific survey, the size of the sample population, and other practical aspects such as which scaling method to use, the target population for the survey, and how to disseminate the survey. Each of these components will constitute a larger body of knowledge and have its own impact on the outcome and validity of the survey. For instance, using a Likert scale as opposed to a True-False type of question can lead to substantial variations in the accuracy of the survey.

In the same fashion, telephone interviews versus mail-response interviews each has its own set of pros and cons. Data collection is thus another important aspect of the research methodology. Data analysis is an extremely important aspect to consider when conducting research. There are a number of different methods that can be applied to similar problems based on the type of response (multiple choice, true false, numerical, etc.), sample size and expected outcome. Furthermore, each type of test will have its’ own pros and cons. For instance, in testing significance of variables, parametric (t-test, z-test, ANOVA, etc.) or non-parametric (chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon signed-rank, etc.) tests may be used. Based on the specific features of a dataset, a specific set of methods will have to be adopted. In order to produce the most accurate possible result.

Types of research methodologies

Research is typically categorized in two forms:

  1. Qualitative: Where variables are not quantified and judgment, inference and interpretation are required along specific qualitative analysis expertise, to generate results

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  1. Quantitative: Where variables are quantified and scientific methods can be applied to generating a precise result. It can be applied to building quantifiable results

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Given the nature of each type of research, different research methodologies are applied to each type. For instance, while a qualitative research project uses techniques such as case study, ethnography, and discourse analysis, quantitative methodologies use experiments, interviews, surveys and the like. Each research methodology, in addition to prescribing specific methods for design, data collection and analysis, provides general guidelines as to applicability and validity.

In general, qualitative research methodologies share the following common characteristics:

  • They generally take place in a social setting
  • Involve social observation and interaction
  • Rely on inference and interpretation

The following are some drawbacks, but are not limited to:

Results are based on interpretation and inference which may lead to a significant ‘error’ possibility in across the board application

  • Given the significant social component of such studies, a lot of variability may be present in the results due to the presence of researcher bias, skill and participant composition

Quantitative research generally share the following characteristics:

  • Typically rule based, involve a substantial amount of calculation as opposed to interpretation
  • Frequently based on values assigned to a number of qualitative aspects
  • Produce a result that is quantifiable and measurable, making it applicable to various settings.

Drawbacks

  • A number of variables such as preference, value and importance cannot be easily quantified
  • Valuable input from the researcher is minimized, shifting bias error to the participant.
  • Quantifiable results are not always generalized and are specific to a certain set of variables and conditions

Research methodology sets the boundaries of a project and anticipates potential issues. The researcher’s judgment, skills, and beliefs also influence it. There may be wide variations in the adopted methodology as time, funds and other resources permit.

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