Research Designs: Elements & Types | UGC NET Commerce Preparation Course PDF Download

What is Research Design? 

Research design is the blueprint of research methods and techniques selected by a researcher to carry out a study. It enables researchers to refine the methods best suited for the subject area and establish a strong foundation for their studies.

When creating a research topic, it delineates the kind of research being conducted, such as experimental, survey research, correlational studies, semi-experimental approaches, or reviews, along with specific sub-types like experimental design or descriptive case studies.

There exist three primary types of research designs:

• Data Collection
• Measurement
• Data Analysis

The design phase of a study is guided by the research problem faced by an organization, not the other way around. It is during this phase that researchers decide which tools to utilize and how to apply them effectively.

The Process of Research Design 

Consider your aims and approaches:

• Determine the research questions and objectives, and identify the theoretical framework and methodology for the study.

Choose a type of Research Design:

• Select the appropriate research design, such as experimental, correlational, survey, case study, or ethnographic, based on the research questions and objectives.

Identify your population and sampling method:

• Determine the target population and sample size, and choose the sampling method, such as random, stratified random sampling, or convenience sampling.

Choose your data collection methods:

• Decide on the data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments, and select the appropriate instruments or tools for collecting data.

Plan your data collection procedures:

• Develop a plan for data collection, including the timeframe, location, and personnel involved, and ensure ethical considerations.

Decide on your data analysis strategies:

• Select the appropriate data analysis techniques, such as statistical analysis, content analysis, or discourse analysis, and plan how to interpret the results.

The process of research design is a critical step in conducting research. By following these steps, researchers can ensure that their study is well-planned, ethical, and rigorous.

Research Design Elements 

Impactful research typically aims to minimize bias in data and enhance confidence in the accuracy of the collected information. A research design that minimizes errors in experimental research is generally the ideal goal. The key elements include:

Accurate purpose statement:

• A precise and clear statement outlining the purpose of the research.

Techniques for data collection and analysis:

• Strategies and methods to be used for gathering and analyzing research data effectively.

Analysis methodology:

• The specific method employed to analyze the data collected during the research process.

Research methodology type:

• The approach or methodology chosen for conducting the research, such as qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.

Anticipated research challenges:

• Identification and consideration of potential obstacles or objections that may arise during the research process.

Research study settings:

• The specific environments or contexts in which the research will be conducted, including any relevant details about the location or conditions.

Timeline for the research:

• A well-defined schedule or plan outlining the key milestones and deadlines for the research project.

Data analysis methods:

• The techniques and tools that will be used to analyze the data collected during the research study.

Characteristics of Research Design

Neutrality:

• Neutrality in research design involves ensuring that the study remains unbiased and objective throughout. It's crucial to make assumptions about the data collected that are free from bias. Consider various perspectives and opinions on the final results to maintain a neutral stance.

Reliability:

• Reliability is about consistently obtaining similar results when the research is conducted multiple times. To achieve reliable results, the research design must be robust and dependable. Formulating clear research questions is essential to maintain result standards.

Validity:

• Validity focuses on using appropriate measuring tools that align with the research objectives. The questionnaire developed based on the design should accurately measure what it is intended to measure, ensuring the validity of the research outcomes.

Generalization:

• Generalization ensures that the outcomes of the research can be applied to a larger population, not just a specific sample. A well-designed study should be applicable to different segments of a population with consistent accuracy.

The factors influencing how respondents answer research questions must be balanced in a well-designed study. Understanding different types of research designs is crucial for researchers to choose the appropriate model for their study. Research design can be broadly categorized into quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Research Design Types

A researcher needs to fully grasp the different kinds to decide which model to use for a study. Just like the research itself, the structure of your analysis can be broadly grouped into quantitative and qualitative.

• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research is more exploratory and aims to understand subjective experiences and behaviors. It involves in-depth interviews, focus groups, and observations to gather data. The focus is on understanding 'why' and 'how' things happen rather than just 'what' happens.
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research, on the other hand, focuses on collecting and analyzing objective data through statistical methods. Surveys, experiments, and questionnaires are commonly used in this type of research. The emphasis is on numerical data and statistical analysis to draw conclusions.

Qualitative Research vs Quantitative Research

Here is a chart that highlights the major differences between qualitative and quantitative research:

In summary or analysis, the step of qualitative research is more exploratory and focuses on understanding the subjective experiences of individuals, while quantitative research is more focused on objective data and statistical analysis.

You can further break down the types of research design into five categories:

Descriptive: 

• In a descriptive composition, a researcher aims to explain a situation or case they are studying. This method involves collecting and analyzing data to understand the reasons behind the research. It helps others grasp why the research is important. If the issue is unclear, exploratory research can be conducted.

Experimental: 

• Experimental research focuses on understanding the cause-and-effect relationship in a situation. It observes how changes in an independent variable affect a dependent variable. For instance, it studies how factors like price impact customer satisfaction or brand loyalty. This method is effective for problem-solving.

Correlational research: 

• Correlational research looks at the connection between two related variables without manipulating them. Statistical methods are used to measure this relationship, with a correlation coefficient ranging from -1 to 1 indicating the strength and direction of the relationship.

Diagnostic research: 

• In diagnostic research, the goal is to understand the root cause of a specific issue. It involves identifying the problem, diagnosing it, and finding a solution.

Explanatory research: 

• Explanatory research delves deeper into a subject based on the researcher's theories. It aims to explain unexplored aspects and answer questions regarding what, how, and why.

Benefits of Research Design

• Clarity of research objectives: Research design helps define research goals and expected outcomes clearly.
• Increased validity and reliability: It minimizes bias, controls variables, and ensures reliable results.
• Improved data collection: Ensures systematic and consistent data collection.
• Better data analysis: Facilitates effective analysis for valuable insights.
• Improved communication: Ensures clean and impactful sharing of results.
• Efficient resource utilization: Maximizes research impact while minimizing waste.