What Are the Research Methods for Dissertation? Everything You Need to Know

 

 

 

Introduction

A dissertation requires you to select a proper set of research methods to ensure your study’s credibility. This article by QuickEduHelp helps you learn and understand various aspects of research methods for a dissertation. It covers topics like the overall research approach, research design types, sampling techniques, and data collection methods with justification and explanation of when and why each method is used. In case any of it seems difficult, you can simply contact QuickEduHelp to avail its custom dissertation writing service.

Overall research approach

The overall research approach is the foundation of your entire research so pay close attention because this is perhaps one of the most crucial parts of research methods for dissertation. But choosing one doesn’t mean your research will be better. Instead, it’s the nature of your research that guides your approach.

Quantitative

The quantitative research method employs a structured and numerical approach to data analysis. It is defined as a method that relies on the power of statistics to analyze relationships and employ generalization. This method should be used when you aim to answer questions based on measurable variables, allowing you to make generalizations across a large data set. For example, suppose you are studying the results of a new medical drug. In that case, this technique can be applied to measure specific health indicators, such as the level of particular neurochemicals across the body for many tested individuals. These results can then be used for statistical analysis to determine the overall impact of the treatment, providing statistical reliability and objectivity which is essential to make generalizable claims.

Qualitative

Qualitative research is an exploratory research approach employed when the research aims to expand the understanding of complex phenomena, capture experiences, and explore social and cultural contexts. This research approach deepens into underlying meanings, motivations, and contexts shaping human behavior. For example, this technique is more suitable for studying the impact of cultural assimilation in immigrant communities as it can generate deeper insights from subjective insights, something that quantitative measures may not be able to record.

Qualitative or Quantitative

As stated before, the research question and the phenomena under study guide which approach is applied. Usually, in situations where research is being conducted to establish cause and effect, quantify relationships, and generalize findings to a broader population, the quantitative approach is employed. This is usually across fields like medicine and economics, where numerical data can offer a clear picture of reality. On the other hand, the qualitative approach is employed to learn about phenomena grounded in the participant’s subjective experiences and social context. This is more commonly used across disciplines such as sociology and anthropology, focusing on the depth of human experiences. Remember that a reasonable approach aligns the study with its goals. In cases where one approach does not do that perfectly, a careful blend of both approaches can be employed, providing a much more comprehensive understanding by compiling findings from different perspectives.

Type of Research Design

When delving into the realm of research design, it becomes paramount to comprehend the diverse types available. This section sheds light on quantitative and qualitative research designs, unraveling the intricacies that guide researchers in their quest for a methodologically sound study.

Quantitative Research Designs

Experimental Design

Within quantitative research, experimental design stands as a stalwart approach. It involves manipulating independent variables to scrutinize their impact on dependent variables, fostering a nuanced understanding of causal relationships within the subject matter. 

Quasi-Experimental Design

The quasi-experimental design, while lacking random well-structured assignment, engages in variable manipulation. This design finds its application when complete randomization is impractical, offering a middle ground between experimental control and real-world complexity. 

Correlational Design

Correlational studies, a cornerstone of quantitative inquiry, navigate the exploration of relationships between variables sans manipulation. While causation remains elusive, correlational designs serve as invaluable tools for identifying associations, paving the way for further investigative pursuits.

Descriptive Design

Delving into the realm of descriptive studies, researchers seek to characterize the features of a phenomenon without intervening. These designs comprehensively portray the subject under scrutiny, providing nuanced insights into its intricacies.

 

Qualitative Research Designs

Case Study

In the qualitative landscape, the case study emerges as a profound method involving an in-depth analysis of a specific instance or case. This design proves particularly efficacious for unraveling complexities that may elude broader studies.

Ethnography

Ethnographic research, immersing researchers in the subjects’ environment, strives to understand behaviors, beliefs, and social structures. This design proves valuable for acquiring cultural insights and context.

Grounded Theory

As a systematic approach to theory development, grounded theory proves its mettle when existing theories are inadequate. This method comes to the forefront when the chosen research topic lacks sufficient theoretical frameworks. 

Phenomenology

The qualitative approach of phenomenology delves into the subjective experiences of individuals, providing a profound understanding of a phenomenon. This design proves particularly adept at investigating the essence of human experiences and perceptions.

Sampling

The importance of sampling cannot be overstated because of its essential role in dissertation research methods. Without proper sampling, our results may not hold any significance in proving the phenomenon we set out to discover which is why extra care must be implemented when collecting samples.

Random sampling is a sampling technique that aims to give every member of the population an equal chance of being chosen for testing. This limits potential bias which can emerge for targeted selection. 

On the other hand, Stratified sampling plays an important role when the population exhibits a variety of characteristics. To ensure all such characteristics are equally represented in our data, we select an equal number of samples from each strata or section of population.

Purposive sampling technique involves intentional selection of participants based on specific characteristics aligning with research objectives. While this may include biases in our data, it simultaneously makes up for it by allowing in-depth insights from a small set of unique selected data points.

The selection of an appropriate sampling method involves a delicate balance between the research’s scope, available resources, and the need for a representative sample. Researchers must carefully navigate these considerations to uphold the study’s external validity.

Data Collection Methods

Quantitative Data Collection

Interviews emerge as a versatile tool within the quantitative realm, facilitating structured data collection through standardized questionnaires. This method ensures uniformity in responses, expediting subsequent statistical analysis. Surveys, another pillar of quantitative research, enable efficient data gathering from a large participant pool, with their structured nature conducive to statistical manipulation and trend analysis. The utilization of existing data, often overlooked, proves a potent approach in quantitative research. Leveraging pre-existing databases or historical records economizes time and resources and allows researchers to discern trends or changes over time.

Qualitative Data Collection

In the qualitative landscape, interviews and focus groups are invaluable methods, weaving a rich tapestry of perspectives. These methods transcend surface-level responses, empowering participants to articulate nuanced experiences and viewpoints. Likewise, Participant observation allows the researcher to immerse themselves in the natural environment of the study, enabling researchers to firsthand explore behaviors, social dynamics, and contextual factors. Through keen observation and interaction, researchers can capture the intricacies of the phenomena under investigation.

Conclusion

This comprehensive exploration of research methods for dissertations, provided by QuickEduHelp, can serve as an invaluable guide for you to navigate the intricacies dissertation writing with guidance over all aspects of dissertation writing, something which can also be done with the help of dissertation services like QuickEduHelp. Now stop wondering, “Who can write my dissertation for me” and instead contact QuickEduHelp!

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