Key Concepts in Research Methods

What is Research?

Research is the intentional search for knowledge or solutions to scientific problems. The scientific method shows the way to journey through that investigation, and the techniques needed provide a way to navigate it. It is characterized by being reflective, systematic, and methodical. It is developed through a process.

Importance of Research

Research becomes important because it helps to solve social problems, build new theories, etc.

Evaluating Research Importance

Here are three criteria for evaluating the potential importance of research:

• Convenience: How convenient is the research?
• Social Relevance: What is its importance to society? Who will benefit from the research results?
• Practical Implications: Does it solve real problems?

Purposes of Research

Purposes point to what is expected in the investigation and should be expressed clearly as they serve as study guides. These objectives should be clear to avoid deviations in the quantitative research process and be achievable.

Sources of Research Ideas

Here are four generating sources of research ideas:

• Individual experiences
• Written materials
• Audiovisual equipment
• Internet

Validity and Reliability

Validity refers to the degree to which an instrument actually measures the variable it purports to measure. One can differentiate three types of validity:

• Evidence of content
• Criterion
• Construct

Reliability is the degree to which an instrument produces consistent results.

Utility of Theory

Here are three utilities of theory:

• They are research guides in the quantitative approach.
• It has descriptive and explanatory functions.
• Another function is to test theories.

Theoretical Functions

Here are two theoretical functions:

• Helps prevent errors in other studies.
• Provides guidance on how the study should be conducted.

Building a Theoretical Framework

To construct a theoretical framework, one must consider:

• A fully developed theory with empirical evidence that applies to the research question.
• Several theories that apply to the research question.
• "Pieces" of theory and empirical support.
• Interesting discoveries without actually conforming to a theory.
• Only guidelines exist, yet to be studied, and ideas loosely related to the research problem.

Stages of Theoretical Framework Development

The stages of developing a theoretical framework are the review of relevant literature and the development of the theoretical or referential framework.