Tuesday, 9 August 2022

Considerations a Researcher Should Put in Place while Selecting Appropriate Methodology

By Bakampa Brian Baryaguma

[Dip. Law (First Class)–LDC; Cert. Oil & Gas–Mak; LLB (Hons)–Mak]

bakampasenior@gmail.com; www.huntedthinker.blogspot.ug

August 2022

1.                  Introduction

According to Gradireland, a social researcher is a person who, “Designs, manages and undertakes research projects that aim to investigate social issues such as employment, unemployment, gender, health, education and social policy.”[1] Denis Asiimwe Katebire avers that the purpose of a social researcher is to explore, describe or analyse social phenomena or events.[2] From Katebire’s averment, it can be deduced that a social researcher is a person who explores, describes or analyses social phenomena or events.

The term methodology is fairly easy to understand, but not easy to define. According to Denis Asiimwe Katebire, “Research methodology [i]s an attempt by scholars and researchers to validate the rationale behind the selected research design and provide justification of why it is appropriate in solving the selected research problem. Generally, in a methodology there is an overall philosophical approach to the problem.”[3] For their part, J. W. Buckley, M. H. Buckley and H. Chiang define research methodology as, "the strategy or architectural design by which the researcher maps out an approach to problem-finding or problem-solving."[4] Alternatively, PhD Monster states that, “Research methodology is a scientific and logical technique that helps you decide on an appropriate research method to collect data.”[5] I deduce from these definitions that methodology is a systematic plan for scientifically and logically addressing a research matter or problem.

The methodology section in a research paper, thesis or dissertation comprises the following:

(i)                 Research design – describes the nature and pattern the research intends to follow;

(ii)               Research approaches – qualitative vis-à-vis quantitative;

(iii)             Description of geographical area and population of study;

(iv)             Description of population to be sampled;

(v)               Sampling strategies used in selecting representative elements or population subjects;

(vi)             Data collection methods, including instruments and procedures to be used;

(vii)           Data quality control i.e. reliability and validity of instruments used in data collection;

(viii)         Measurements i.e. formulae or scales in the study; and

(ix)             Data analysis, involving organization and interpretation of data generated.[6]

2.                  Considerations for Selecting Appropriate Methodology

There is nothing like methodology in the abstract. Methodology applies in a given setting where some preconditions must exist. As such therefore, selecting an appropriate methodology is premised on many underlying considerations that a researcher must put in place. The following are the notable ones.

1.                  Concept

The first thing is to have a concept. A concept is an idea that one is interested in. If the researcher’s idea is to determine the relationship of one thing to another, then he would need to use quantitative methodology that can help him collect statistical data, with which to make clear numerical descriptions or inferences. On the other hand, if the researcher’s idea is to explore things like characteristics, reasons, opinions, perceptions and motivations, then the qualitative research methodology is ideal because these cannot be easily statistically quantified,[7] but can best be easily stated verbally or non-numerically.

2.                  Variables

A variable is a non-constant object of enquiry.[8] Like the name suggests, it is something that varies – as opposed to something that is deemed, within a research setting, to be fixed and unchanging.[9] It is a characteristic of a person, object or phenomenon, which can take on different values.[10]

Variables can be numerical or quantitative, for example age, distance, weight, income, etc.[11] They can also be categorical i.e. can be expressed in terms of categories, for example colour of eyes, blood group, sex, staple food of a locality,[12] political party affiliation, etc.

If a researcher is dealing with numerical or quantitative variables, he will use quantitative methodology that enables statistical analysis of phenomena and expression of findings. But if the researcher is handling categorical variables, he will need qualitative methodology that can be used to for instance verbally describe the nature of population sampled.

3.                  Hypotheses and Research Questions

Research is always a targeted endeavour, focusing on specific matters of interest to the researcher and therefore interested in specific answers to those matters. Being, “… starting point, clear assumptions about the likely relationships between the variables to be studied, or … clear questions about such relationships,”[13] hypotheses and research questions determine the kind of data needed to verify or answer those assumptions and questions.[14]

(a)                Hypotheses

According to Denis Asiimwe Katebire, “A hypothesis is a tentative assumption made in order to draw out and test its logical and empirical consequences. It is a proposition that is stated in testable form and predicts a particular relationship or lack of it between two or more variables. … it must be a statement of fact and susceptible to empirical investigation.”[15] Therefore a hypothesis is a statement of expectation or prediction that will be tested by research. It expresses expectation of or predicts the relationship between variables.

There are two kinds of hypotheses: statistical hypothesis / null hypothesis, which is a statement claiming or predicting equality between the variables under study;[16] and a research hypothesis / alternative hypothesis, which is a statement of inequality between the variables under study.[17]

Katebire avers that, “Hypotheses are a feature of quantitative studies which require statistical tests to prove or refute them, although research hypotheses are also used in qualitative studies.”[18] It follows from this that where a researcher assumes some things by way of hypotheses, he necessarily involves quantitative methodology to experimentally or statistically prove or disprove the existence, accuracy or otherwise of the things assumed at the commencement of the study. But where research hypotheses are concerned, the researcher uses qualitative methodology to explore or discover the reality of things assumed.

(b)               Research Questions

In simple terms, a research question is a question that a research study sets out to answer.[19] It is a concise interrogative statement, normally stated in the present simple tense.[20] Research questions normally focus on what variables are to be described and what relationship might exist among them.[21]

A research question determines the methodology to use depending on how it is crafted. If it is a how or why format, then qualitative methodology will be used[22] because how or why questions tend to be open-ended, providing direct quotations and make the researcher an integral part of the study,[23] thus being best achieved in an explorative manner: a key element of qualitative research.[24] If however, the research question is crafted in a where or when format, then quantitative methodology will be used in the study[25] because where and when require objective methods that attempt to remove the investigator from the investigation, which can best be achieved in a quantitative approach.[26] But if a research question is coined in what fashion, then mixed research[27] methodology will be used because answering the what will most likely require a blend of both verbal descriptions (qualitative) and numerical analysis (quantitative), since both techniques will be mixed in a single study.

4.                  Frame of Reference

A reference is something turned to or gone to for information, guidance, etc. Thus, a frame of reference informs, guides or shapes a research study. This is a framework within which to conduct a research study.[28] More technically, “A frame of reference is a theoretical analysis or abstract conceptualization that places the study within a context of meaningful reference.”[29] The American Psychological Association defines the term frame of reference in psychology terms, but their definition can be helpful in helping us understand it. They say that a frame of reference, “in social psychology, [is] the set of assumptions or criteria by which a person or group judges ideas, actions, and experiences.”[30] From this definition we may infer that in social research, frame of reference is a set of assumptions or criteria by which a researcher judges social phenomena or events.

The framework (whether theoretical or conceptual) comprises concepts or variables, their relationship to one another and a basic theory explaining them.[31] A frame of reference is very important because it determines the methodology to use during research in two main ways:

(a)                on basis of concepts and variables – if the framework identifies comparative ones in the sense of determining relationships, then quantitative methodologies will be used; but if the concepts and variables are exploratory, inquiring into new phenomena and events, then qualitative methodologies are to be used; and

(b)               on theoretical or conceptual basis – if there is a dominant theory that explains the state of things as are presently, then that theory should be interrogated more for veracity and accuracy which requires qualitative methodologies; but if there are different explanations for various perceptions of or ideas about the subject of study, then quantitative methodology would be ideal to explain or predict the more authentic one.

5.                  Appropriate Data Collection Instruments

A data collection instrument is a tool used to collect research data. Using appropriate tools is crucial because, “Accurate and systematic data collection is critical to conducting scientific [and social] research.”[32] Examples of data collection instruments are questionnaires, interviews, observations, experiments and scales (including measuring and weighing tapes).[33]

Data collection instruments are appropriate if and when they produce valid and reliable results. The instruments chosen must possess certain qualities and standards so as to collect data that is acceptable as appropriate and authentic.[34] Appropriateness and authenticity are determined by the validity and reliability of the data collected,[35] which inevitably depends on the kind of data collection instrument used. This is how critical the data collection instrument is. And so, a researcher must ensure that the right tools are in place while selecting a methodology to use in the course of study. Interestingly, the instrument chosen to collect the data will also depend on the type of data planned on collecting (qualitative, quantitative or mixed) and how it is planned to collect it.[36] The most used data collection instruments are questionnaires, interviews and observations.[37]

(a)                Questionnaires

Invented by Sir Francis Galton, “A questionnaire is a data collection instrument consistent of a series of questions and other prompts for the purpose of gathering information from respondents.”[38] Questionnaires are best suited for quantitative methodology,[39] where data collected is objective (i.e. not subject to individual tastes and preferences) and is statistically significant representing a large sample of the population covered.[40]

But questionnaires are also ideal for mixed methodology, measuring both qualitative / subjective data and quantitative / objective data.[41] This usually happens in situations where respondents are asked to explain their previous choice, hence inviting inclusion of personal perceptions and attitudes in the study.

(b)               Interviews

Interviews are active interactions between two or more people leading to a negotiated contextually based result.[42] Data is collected by asking questions through listening to individuals, recording, filming their responses, or a combination of methods.[43] Interviews are popular as a data-collection tool because of their flexibility.[44] They can be structured or semi structured to generate insights and concepts.[45] It is important to hold interviews because they help the researcher understand other people’s constructions of reality in their terms and in a depth which addresses the rich context that is the substance of their meanings.[46]

Interviews are a tool mainly for the collection of qualitative data,[47] and so they are best suited for qualitative methodologies like probing, which enable collecting complex information with a higher proportion of opinion-based information.[48]

(c)                Observations

Observation is a systematic data-collecting technique that involves watching people or things in their natural environment or in a naturally occurring situation.[49] It can cover individuals, groups and whole communities.[50] The researcher cum observer can participate at different levels ranging from wholly participant to non-participant.[51] Data is collected through field notes, video or audio recordings.[52]

Observation is most suitable for qualitative methodologies which permit searching for patterns, themes and holistic features, in order to generate new hypotheses and theories grounded in the data collected.

But if observations are coded to exact numerical data, this instrument can be used in quantitative methodologies by summarizing the data and identifying statistical relationships.

3.                  Conclusion

Methodology is very vital for the success of a research activity or project. Selecting the appropriate methodology is dependent on many considerations as discussed above. A researcher should put those considerations in place at the start of the research study.

 

REFERENCES

[1] Gradireland, ‘Social researcher’ (2022). Accessed online at https://gradireland.com/careers-advice/job-descriptions/social-researcher, on 12 April 2022, at 16:01 GMT.

[2] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, Social Research Methodology: An Introduction (2007), at 15.

[3] Ibid., at 19.

[4] J. W. Buckley, M. H. Buckley and H. Chiang, Research Methodology & Business Decisions (1976). Accessed online at https://maaw.info/ArticleSummaries/ArtSumBuckley76.htm#:~:text=The%20authors%20define%20research%20methodology,six%20parts%20as%20indicated%20below., on 12 April 2022, at 12:47 GMT.

[5] PhD Monster, ‘Factors to Consider while Choosing the Right Research Methodology’ (2019). Accessed online at https://www.phdmonster.com/factors-to-consider-while-choosing-the-right-research-methodology/, on 9 April 2022, at 13:00 GMT.

[6] Makerere University, ‘Guidelines for the Format of Research Proposals, Research Reports, Thesis and Dissertations’ (2011), at 4.

[7] See Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 9, for the difference between qualitative and quantitative research.

[8] Lee Harvey, ‘Social Research Glossary’ Quality Research International (2022). Accessed online at https://www.qualityresearchinternational.com/socialresearch/variable.htm#:~:text=The%20object%20of%20enquiry%2C%20treated,gender%20and%20party%20political%20preference., on 12 April 2022, at 18:06 GMT.

[9] Ibid.

[10] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 19.

[11] Ibid.

[12] Ibid.

[13] Ibid., at 26.

[14] Ibid.

[15] Ibid.

[16] Ibid.

[17] Ibid., at 27.

[18] Ibid.

[19] Wikipedia, ‘Research question’ (2022). Accessed online at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Research_question, on 13 April 2022, at 05:11 GMT.

[20] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 27.

[21] Ibid.

[22] Wikipedia, supra note 19.

[23] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 62.

[24] Ibid., at 15.

[25] Wikipedia, supra note 19.

[26] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 62.

[27] Ibid., at 8, defines mixed research as, “… that one in which quantitative and qualitative techniques are mixed in a single study.”

[28] Ibid., at 28.

[29] Ibid.

[30] American Psychological Association, APA Dictionary of Psychology (2022). Accessed online at https://dictionary.apa.org/frame-of-reference, on 13 April 2022, at 08:07 GMT.

[31] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 28.

[32] Dr. Karim Abawi, ‘Data Collection Instruments (Questionnaire & Interview)’ (2014), at 2. Accessed online at https://www.gfmer.ch/SRH-Course-2013/Geneva-Workshop/pdf/Data-collection-instruments-Abawi-2014.pdf, on 13 April 2022, at 12:00 GMT.

[33] Coventry University, ‘Data-collecting instruments: An overview of instruments to collect qualitative or quantitative data for analysis’ FutureLearn (2022). Accessed online at https://www.futurelearn.com/info/courses/research-construction-management/0/steps/75098, on 13 April 2022, at 08:40 GMT.

[34] Denis Asiimwe Katebire, supra note 2, at 29.

[35] Ibid.

[36] Coventry University, supra note 33.

[37] Ibid.

[38] Dr. Karim Abawi, supra note 32, at 3.

[39] Coventry University, supra note 33; Dr. Karim Abawi, supra note 32, at 10.

[40] Dr. Karim Abawi, supra note 32, at 10.

[41] Ibid.

[42] Coventry University, supra note 33.

[43] Dr. Karim Abawi, supra note 32, at 11.

[44] Coventry University, supra note 33.

[45] Ibid.

[46] Ibid.

[47] Ibid.

[48] Dr. Karim Abawi, supra note 32, at 13.

[49] Coventry University, supra note 33.

[50] Ibid.

[51] Ibid.

[52] Ibid.

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