Research design is the strategy used to answer a research question using empirical data. A well-planned research design allows researchers to improve research methods appropriate for the topic and successfully set up their research work. This provides a clear roadmap, and a well-thought-out research design increases the probability of obtaining reliable and valid results.
Types of Research Design
There are various types of research designs to choose from based on the objectives of the study and the phenomenon being studied. Before embarking on a project, researchers must understand the different types to choose the most appropriate design for their research. The selected design shapes the entire study, from the processes used for data collection to the interpretation and analysis of results.
Common types of Research Designs
Experimental Design:
This research design focuses on the connection between the two kinds of variables—dependent and independent. It is more of field research than theoretical. The researcher uses the random sampling method and random assignment to build experimental and control groups. This type of research design is used in medical science, social sciences, scientific experiments, etc. One of the major cons of this research design is that it does not consider the moral or ethical breaches caused by a particular variable.
Quasi-Experimental Design
A quasi-experimental design is applicable when it is not practical to use random assignment or random selection, there is no control group, and the experimental research design is not ethical or feasible.
Non-Experimental Research Design
Non-experimental research design measures variables in the real world or the lab. It lacks manipulation of independent variables. It is mainly preferred when the research question:
- relates to only a single variable
- relates to a non-casual statistical connection between variables
- is exploratory or broad
- independent variables cannot be manipulated.
Three Broad Categories of Non-Experimental Research
- Cross-sectional design: This design offers an overview of data collection of various variables at a single point in time.
- Observational Research: In this research design, the participants are observed without the researcher manipulating the variables.
- Correlational research: Mainly focuses on the statistical relationship between variables
Qualitative Research Design
A qualitative research design is exploratory and subjective. It deals with subjective aspects like perspectives, beliefs, experiences, concepts, etc. The data is non-numerical and includes images, observations, and words. In this research design, the data is collected through interviews, observations, and focus groups. This research design is typically used in anthropology, sociology, and linguistics.
Quantitative Research Design
Quantitative research design is a systematic study of phenomena involving gathering and analysing numerical data, evaluating the relationships between variables, calculating averages and determining predominant insights. It focuses on collecting statistically significant information using sampling methods. This type of research design can be represented in numerical form. Quantitative research has unique characteristics, making it suitable for specific projects. A few features of Quantitative Research Design are:
- It uses structured tools to gather quantitative data
- The research is carried out on a significant sample size
- The data is visually represented in the form of charts, graphs, tables etc
- Closed-ended questions are the basis of quantitative research.
Importance of Research Design
A research design is essential to ensure the research outcome is reliable and accurate. Therefore, it forms the basis of the whole research. A research design is important because:
- Inaccuracy is reduced significantly
- Allows optimum reliability and efficiency
- Less uncertainly and confusion about the research problem
- Gets rid of marginal errors and bias
- Ensures the results are reliable and valid
- It provides the right direction for the research problem
- Ensures the findings of the research are generalisable to a bigger population
Research Design Example
Experimental Research Design: Casual relationships are studied in this research design. The independent variables (one or more) are manipulated, and their effect is measured on the dependent variables (one or more).
Example: Studying the efficiency of an innovative vaccine plan for influenza.
Conclusion
Research design refers to the overall strategies involved in the study and how the different components are integrated logically and coherently. It is a framework for conducting the research. It defines the study type (experimental, quasi-experimental, etc), sub-type, hypothesis, research question, variables, experimental design, and a statistical analysis plan.
The research design helps scholars organise their ideas and systematically conduct research. It also helps procure and plan resources and guides the study in the right direction. In short, a research design is a strategy that helps to find an answer to the research question.
FAQs
1. What is the most accessible research design?
The descriptive research design is the easiest and simplest of the various study designs and this is because:
- The data collection is straightforward through observations, surveys, or existing records
- Clear analysis and objectives
- Minimal manipulation of variables
- Limited resources are needed for descriptive research and less time frame.
2. How to figure out the research design?
The research design depends on the data type used to answer your research problem. For example, a quantitative research design measures or tests a hypothesis, while a qualitative method is preferred to explore thoughts, meaning, and ideas. An experimental research design would be apt if a cause-and-effect relationship is to be established.
3. What is the meaning, types, and importance of research?
Research is a systematic plan of studying a scientific problem. It involves systematic inquiry, data collection and analysis, and objective investigation. The different types of research are:
- Applied Research
- Qualitative Research
- Quantitative Research
- Mixed-methods Research
- Exploratory Research
Importance of Research:
- Discovery and innovation
- Solving a complex problem
- Advancing knowledge
- Helps to make informed decision-making
- Academic and professional growth
4. How qualitative research is different from quantitative research?
| Basis of Comparison | Quantitative Research | Qualitative Research |
| Definition | Generates numerical data by employing statistical and mathematical techniques | Provides more profound insights into real-world problems. |
| Data | Measurable | Verbal |
| Hypothesis | Tested | Generated |
| Methods | Structured techniques like surveys, observations, questionnaires | Non-structured techniques such as group discussions and in-depth interviews. |
| Result | Suggests final course of action | Develops initial understanding. |