Design A Research Methodology

Design A Research Methodology

In a ten-to-twelve page research paper, design a research methodology to address the problem statement written in Step #2. In Step #3 you are NOT reporting on the work of others related to your topic - that's what you did in Step #1. In Step #3, you are designing your own research methodology to address the question you have posed in Step #2. Must be APA format, 12pt font, no less 10 legitimate, verifiable sources, title page, an introduction, reference page. Due by 4/21/2019 @ 7 p.m. Est. Plagiarism free.

Paper For Above instruction

Designing a comprehensive research methodology is a critical component of a scholarly research paper, especially when addressing a specific problem statement derived from earlier steps. This paper aims to construct a detailed and rigorous research methodology tailored to investigate the research question articulated in Step #2 of the research process. The methodology outlined herein will encompass the research paradigm, design, sampling strategy, data collection techniques, data analysis methods, and ethical considerations, all structured to ensure validity, reliability, and replicability of findings.

Introduction

Research methodology serves as the blueprint for the entire research process. It guides the researcher in systematically gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to answer the research question accurately. The importance of a well-developed methodology cannot be overstated, as it underpins the credibility and validity of the study's outcomes (Creswell, 2014). In designing this methodology, considerations include the nature of the problem, the type of data required, and the practical constraints relevant to the research context.

Research Paradigm and Design

The first step involves selecting an appropriate research paradigm—either qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods—aligned with the problem statement. Given the objective to generate insightful and generalizable results, a mixed-methods approach often provides a comprehensive understanding by integrating qualitative depth with quantitative breadth (Johnson & Onwuegbuzie, 2004). The research design—whether descriptive, correlational, experimental, or exploratory—depends on the specific research question. For instance, if the aim is to examine relationships between variables, a correlational design may be appropriate; to test causality, an experimental design might be necessary.

Sampling Strategy

The sampling method significantly influences the representativeness and validity of the results. The population of interest must be clearly defined, and a suitable sampling technique—such as stratified random sampling, convenience sampling, or purposive sampling—should be employed. Stratified sampling ensures proportional representation across subgroups, enhancing the generalizability of findings (Etikan, Musa, & Alkassim, 2016). Sample size calculation must be based on power analysis to ensure statistical significance and adequate sensitivity of data analysis.

Data Collection Techniques

Effective data collection methods are selected to yield reliable and valid data aligned with the research objectives. Quantitative data may be collected through surveys, structured questionnaires, or existing datasets, while qualitative data could be gathered using interviews, focus groups, or observation (Creswell, 2014). Instrument validity and reliability are critical; pre-testing questionnaires and using established measurement tools enhance the quality of data gathered. Ethical protocols, including consent and confidentiality, are strictly adhered to during data collection.

Data Analysis Methods

Data analysis procedures depend on the type of data collected. Quantitative data are typically analyzed using statistical software, employing descriptive statistics, inferential tests (e.g., t-tests, ANOVAs, regression analysis), and correlation measures to identify patterns and relationships (Field, 2013). Qualitative data analysis involves thematic coding, content analysis, or narrative analysis to interpret textual or visual data (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Combining these methods in a mixed-methods study provides a richer understanding of the research problem.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount throughout the research process. Participants’ rights, informed consent, confidentiality, and data security must be prioritized (Resnik, 2015). Ethical approval from an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or ethics committee ensures compliance with professional standards and legal requirements. Transparency in reporting and acknowledgment of potential biases further strengthen the research's integrity.

Conclusion

The proposed research methodology provides a structured framework to effectively investigate the research question derived from Step #2. Its systematic approach ensures that data collected are valid, reliable, and ethically obtained, facilitating accurate and meaningful analysis. Adjustments and refinements to this methodology may be necessary during actual implementation, but the foundational outline emphasizes rigor and scholarly integrity essential for credible research outcomes.

References

• Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77-101.
• Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
• Etikan, I., Musa, S. A., & Alkassim, R. S. (2016). Comparison of convenience sampling and purposive sampling. American Journal of Theoretical and Applied Statistics, 5(1), 1-4.
• Field, A. (2013). Discovering statistics using IBM SPSS statistics (4th ed.). Sage.
• Johnson, R. B., & Onwuegbuzie, A. J. (2004). Mixed methods research: A research paradigm whose time has come. Educational Researcher, 33(7), 14-26.
• Resnik, D. B. (2015). What is ethics in research & why is it important? National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/resources/omics/ethics/index.cfm