What is research? A brief overview
Looking for a brief answer to the question “What is research”? You’ve come to the right place. Read the brief overview below of what research is.
Research according to Creswell is a systematic process of inquiry that aims to generate knowledge and understanding about various phenomena through the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. In Creswell’s perspective, research involves the careful design of studies, the selection of appropriate data collection methods, and the application of rigorous data analysis techniques to answer research questions.
Creswell (2014) defines research as “an investigation, a disciplined inquiry, a process of discovery, and a contribution to knowledge” (p. 3). He highlights the importance of aligning research design, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures to ensure the validity and reliability of research findings. Creswell’s approach emphasizes the integration of qualitative and quantitative methods, enabling researchers to explore complex topics from multiple angles and perspectives.
According to John W. Creswell, there are three primary types of research designs: quantitative research design, qualitative research design, and mixed-methods research design. These designs serve as frameworks for structuring research studies and determining the methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
1. Quantitative Research Design
Quantitative research design is characterized by its emphasis on collecting and analyzing numerical data to identify patterns, relationships, and statistical significance.
This design is well-suited for research questions that seek to quantify variables and test hypotheses.
Researchers using quantitative designs typically employ structured surveys, experiments, and observations to gather data.
Statistical analyses, such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and regression analysis, are employed to draw conclusions from the data.
Quantitative research aims to provide objective and generalizable findings that can be applied to larger populations.
2. Qualitative Research Design
Qualitative research design focuses on exploring and understanding complex phenomena in-depth.
This design is particularly useful when researchers aim to uncover underlying meanings, experiences, and contextual factors that shape participants’ perspectives.
Qualitative research methods include interviews, focus groups, participant observations, and textual analysis.
Researchers engage in processes like coding, thematic analysis, and constant comparison to identify patterns, themes, and insights within qualitative data.
Qualitative research aims to provide rich and detailed descriptions of the studied phenomena, often leading to new theoretical insights.
3. Mixed-Methods Research Design
Mixed-methods research design is a hybrid approach that combines both quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study.
This design is valuable when research questions can be better addressed by integrating the strengths of both approaches.
Mixed-methods research provides a more comprehensive understanding by triangulating findings from different data sources.
Researchers collect and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data separately and then integrate the results to draw meaningful conclusions.
This design facilitates a deeper exploration of research questions, enhancing the validity and richness of the study’s findings.
Creswell’s emphasis on these three main research designs highlights their respective strengths and encourages researchers to choose the design that aligns with their research objectives and the nature of the phenomenon being investigated. Additionally, his approach allows researchers to be creative and adaptable in selecting and combining research methods to produce robust and well-rounded research outcomes.
I hope you get some answers to your question in this brief overview. If you would like to go deeper and learn more, check the overview of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method types of research.
References
- Creswell, J. W. (2021). A Concise Introduction to Mixed Methods Research. Sage Publications.
- Creswell, J. W. (2022). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed-Methods Approaches. Sage Publications.
- Creswell, J. W. (2009). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Sage Publications.
