Discussion Board Forum 3: Part A, Various Designs Ie ✓ Solved

Discussion Board Forum 3 Part Athere Are Various Designs Ie Fixed

There are various designs (i.e. fixed, flexible, and mixed) that help to shape and form one’s research. Each design has various methods associated with the design. After reviewing the Reading and Study material for this module and considering the three designs discussed in the text, please respond to the following: 1. Describe the three designs and when is it appropriate to use each design? 2. How are the designs similar? 3. How are the designs different? 4. What specific methods are related to each of these designs? Your response to these four questions should be a minimum of 300 words. After you have answered these questions, please provide an annotated bibliography on all sources that were used. You must use your text plus two outside scholarly resources, for a minimum of three . Textbook Readings Robson & McCartan: chs. 7, 12, 14 Keller & Alsdorf: chs. 11–12, Epilogue

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The selection of research design is a fundamental step in the research process, as it determines how data will be collected, analyzed, and interpreted. The three primary research designs discussed—fixed, flexible, and mixed—each serve specific purposes based on the nature and objectives of the study. This essay describes each design, explores their similarities and differences, and identifies the methods associated with each to guide appropriate application in various research contexts.

Descriptions and Appropriate Uses of the Three Designs

Fixed Design:

A fixed research design is a structured approach characterized by predetermined methods, standardized procedures, and fixed samples before the study begins. It primarily emphasizes quantitative data collection and statistical analysis, allowing researchers to test hypotheses reliably. Fixed designs are appropriate when the research aims to measure variables precisely or establish patterns that can be generalized across populations. For example, large-scale surveys that seek to quantify attitudes or behaviors across a broad demographic typically employ fixed designs (Robson & McCartan, 2016).

Flexible Design:

Conversely, flexible research designs are adaptable and evolve as the research progresses. They often involve qualitative methods that allow for exploration and understanding of complex phenomena. Flexible designs are suitable when the researcher aims to develop a deep understanding of participants’ perspectives or when the research context is dynamic and unpredictable. Ethnographic studies and case studies frequently utilize flexible approaches to gather rich, contextual data (Keller & Alsdorf, 2013).

Mixed Design:

A mixed design combines elements of both fixed and flexible approaches, integrating quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study. This design is particularly appropriate when the research question benefits from both breadth and depth, such as exploring the prevalence of a phenomenon while simultaneously understanding underlying reasons or motivations. Mixed designs provide comprehensive insights and have become increasingly popular in contemporary research (Robson & McCartan, 2016).

Similarities Among the Designs

All three designs aim to gather data to address specific research questions and rely on systematic procedures to ensure validity and reliability. They are structured to guide researchers in designing studies that align with their objectives, whether through predetermined plans (fixed), adaptable approaches (flexible), or a combination of both (mixed). Additionally, each design can employ both qualitative and quantitative methods depending on the research needs.

Differences Among the Designs

The primary distinction lies in the flexibility of the research process. Fixed designs are rigid, emphasizing standardization and quantification, making them suitable for hypothesis testing and generalization. Flexible designs are adaptable, allowing researchers to modify data collection as insights emerge, which is ideal for exploratory research. Mixed designs incorporate elements of both rigidity and flexibility, balancing standardized measurement with open-ended inquiry to maximize informational richness.

Methods Associated with Each Design

Fixed Design Methods:

Quantitative methods such as structured surveys, experiments, and standardized tests are prevalent (Robson & McCartan, 2016). These methods facilitate statistical analysis and hypothesis testing.

Flexible Design Methods:

Qualitative methods such as participant observation, unstructured interviews, and ethnography are typical. These methods enable researchers to gather nuanced, detailed data reflective of participants' contexts (Keller & Alsdorf, 2013).

Mixed Design Methods:

A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods is employed. For example, a researcher may conduct surveys to quantify variables and follow up with interviews to explore underlying reasons, integrating findings through triangulation.

Conclusion

Understanding the characteristics, similarities, differences, and methods associated with fixed, flexible, and mixed research designs helps researchers select the most appropriate approach for their studies. Each design offers unique advantages and is suited for specific research questions, contributing to the validity and depth of findings.

References

• Robson, C., & McCartan, K. (2016). Real world research. Wiley.
• Keller, C., & Alsdorf, A. (2013). Conducting qualitative research in education. Routledge.
• Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage publications.
• Babbie, E. (2015). The practice of social research. Cengage Learning.
• Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative research & evaluation methods. Sage publications.
• Teddlie, C., & Tashakkori, A. (2009). Foundations of mixed methods research. Sage.
• Silverman, D. (2016). Qualitative research. Sage.
• Fink, A. (2013). How to conduct surveys: A step-by-step guide. Sage publications.
• Onwuegbuzie, A. J., & Johnson, R. B. (2006). Mixing methods in education research: Usual and innovative uses. American Educational Research Journal, 43(2), 262-278.
• Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2017). Designing and conducting mixed methods research. Sage publications.