Good Day Shonda Dow

The research design and methods of a study are constructed based on identifying the research problem, developing the theoretical framework, and reviewing the literature (Merriam, 2009). However, the heart of any research design, according to Maxwell (2013), is the research questions. The research questions help to focus the study and influence the choice of research design and methods for data collection. “More than any other aspect of your design, your research questions will have an influence on, and should be responsive to, every other part of your study” (Maxwell, 2013, p. 73).

This paper will review different styles of research design along with how different variables within research can be measured.

Using Northcentral University (NCU) Dissertation Center, a student could access several resources to guide them through the rigorous process of developing a research topic, develop a research question, gathering information to examine the research question(s) and develop a hypothesis all the way to guidelines for submitting a dissertation for review. For this paper the NCU Concept Paper Template will be examined for its instructions on how to detail research methods for quantitative and qualitative studies.

Research designs are procedures used for collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and reporting data in research studies. There are many different models with separate procedures for each of them. Research designs help guide which methods a researcher will use during their studies. When a researcher identifies an issue used for research mixed methods they choose a specific research design that best fits the problem and research questions in the study. The four basic mixed methods designs are the convergent parallel design, the explanatory sequential design, the exploratory sequential design, and the embedded design (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2006).

This study will implement a mixed methods design to include both quantitative and qualitative methods.

Creswell, John.W (1998). Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Traditions., Sage Publication, Oak, California

Provides researchers across the social, behavioral, and health sciences with a comprehensive introduction to mixed methods research. Authors John W. Creswell and Vicki L. Plano Clark combine the latest thinking about mixed methods research designs with practical, step-by-step

Creswell, J. W.(2003) Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method approaches, 2th edition, Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publication

· The research design for this study was qualitative. The information gathered was collected through the use of interviews and surveys. It is a qualitative research study because it “does not introduce treatments or manipulate variables, or impose the researcher’s operational definitions of variables on the participants” (PPA n/d). I was additionally directed at getting a better comprehension of the subject through first hand, truthful reporting.

This research will be adopting the mixed method approach, as it will assist in gathering both qualitative and quantitative methods to ascertain the authenticity of information used. Any weaknesses in either of the research methods will be complemented and compensated by the other’s strength.

This section provides an introduction to the different types of research paradigms and methods before concluding on the approach that this study will undertake.

When selecting a research approach, Creswell (2014) outlines criteria that affect the choice of one approach over another. I have already discussed how my worldview, personal experiences, and identified problem of practice and the questions affect my research. The design, methods, and audience of my emerging research will also be considered in terms of choosing a research approach.

Qualitative and Quantitative study designs both can be beneficial in research design. They both provide valuable options for researchers in the field. These techniques can either be used separately in a research study or they can be combined to achieve maximum information. This paper will define the terms qualitative and quantitative; describe the similarities and differences between each; discuss how qualitative and/or quantitative research designs or techniques could be used in the evaluation of my proposed research; and discuss why linking analysis to study design is important.

"With the development and perceived legitimacy of both qualitative and quantitative research in social and human sciences, mixed methods research, employing the combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches, has gained popularity." (Creswell, p. 203). Describe the development of mixed methodology in educational research. Discuss the steps that need to be taken to develop a viable mixed methods research study.

The methodology chosen is qualitative in nature and involves an extensive review of literature in this area of study.