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Dr Linda Haj Omar
When developing a research methodology, it can either be Observational, Experimental, Simulation or Derivational.
Deciding on the best research methodology can be difficult and confusing, however with a clear work plan, one can come up with an accurate and precise methodology.
Any research has a different purpose and approach that helps in solving its question. Therefore, when developing a research methodology, it would need first to define the research goals, objectives, and questions.
From there, the researcher should do a literature review on pertinent research and effectively used methodologies. Thereafter the researcher should structure the plan and organise the resources to conduct the research and lastly, the researcher should write the research methodology in detail and review it.
The selection of a relevant research methodology also involves comparing and contrasting the approaches used by other researchers in studies with similar aims and objectives. Hence, researchers from the same disciplines often follow a common methodological approach or set of approaches.
It does not mean you should use the same approaches, but at least consider them as references when developing or preparing for your research to fill in the gap that they left in their approaches.
Type of Research Methodology:
Research methodology refers to the methods and techniques used to describe the research effectively, by which can meet the aims and objectives of the study. In general, the research methodology can be classified into the qualitative, quantitative or mixed approach.
Qualitative Research involves the use of information that cannot be numerically quantified. It involves the use of words, descriptions, concepts, beliefs, ideas, and other such intangibles. This method helps a researcher understand what participants think and why they think in a particular way. The common types of qualitative methods include: One-to-one Interviews, Focus Groups, Ethnographic studies, Text Analysis and Case Study.
Quantitative Research involves the use of numeric and statistical data. It measures variables and verifies existing theories or hypotheses.
It can be used to find patterns and averages, make predictions, test causal relationships, and generalize results to wider populations. The most popular type of quantitative research are: Surveys, Questionnaires, Tests, Databases, and Organizational records.
Mixed Methods-Based Research utilizes both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
It uses qualitative research to explore a situation and develop a potential model of understanding, which forms the conceptual framework and then uses quantitative methods to test that model empirically.
Importance of Research Methodology:
A research methodology must be practical, feasible and operational. This will give research legitimacy and provide scientifically sound findings. Also using clear research methods and a detailed plan will help to keep researchers on track, making the process smooth, effective and manageable.
Research methodology is a way of explaining how a researcher intends to carry out their research. As well as it’s a logical, systematic plan to resolve a research problem and allows the reader to understand the approach and methods used to reach conclusions. Subsequently, developing a correct methodology in research allows the required data to be collated in order to accomplish the final goals of the study.
Research is in the DNA of Medlico Research and Training Centre and its organizational goal is to carry out multi-disciplinary research for the betterment of the community, Civic Organisations, Government Ministries including private companies.
In that regard, it boasts of its qualified researchers and statisticians that work round the clock to offer clients evidence-based solutions to problems through research.
Medlico Research and Training Centre is the place to go for your research consultations where the experts will scrutinize your data and diagnose the best research methodology for your data. Medlico will carry out research for you using the relevant research methodologies that will give accurate insights from the particular data of your interest. As a result, Medlico undertakes to uphold its values of client satisfaction amongst others.
Medlico also provides both online and physical courses on Survey, Questionnaire Design and Management an ideal programme for marketing practitioners, researchers, business owners, heads of government departments and NGOs.
Dr Linda Haj Omar is the CEO of Medlico Research & Training Centre. Medlico Research and Training Centre aims to enhance public health issues and community needs, through applying evidence-based research, capacity building and community engagement. For more feedback: Tel: (+263) 242 702326/7, WhatsApp: +263 777 553011/12, Email: [email protected]
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