Research Design: Why Thinking About Design Matters

Designing research involves making decisions to transform an idea into a plan that can provide answers to a research problem or question. It is an iterative and reflexive process, and Julianne Cheek and Elise Øby use pedagogical devices to emphasize specific points and encourage readers to think about the practical implications of what they have learned.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2023
Publisher: SAGE Publications Inc

Designing research is a complex and multifaceted process that involves making critical decisions to transform an idea into a comprehensive plan that can provide meaningful answers to a research problem or question. It requires a thorough understanding of the research topic, careful consideration of research objectives, and the development of a well-structured and logical research design. This text aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible introduction to research design, suitable for both novice researchers and experienced scholars.

The process of designing research is an iterative and reflexive one, where researchers continuously engage in thoughtful deliberation and re-examination of their decisions as the research design evolves. Julianne Cheek and Elise Øby, in their book "Designing Research: A Practical Guide," emphasize the importance of this iterative process, highlighting the need for constant thinking through and re-visiting of design choices.

To facilitate the understanding of research design, the authors employ a variety of pedagogical devices throughout the book. These include "Tip" boxes, which provide concise and practical insights into key concepts; "Activity" boxes, which encourage readers to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios; and "Putting it into Practice" boxes, which offer practical examples and exercises to reinforce the learning process.

In the first chapter, the authors provide an overview of research design, covering its definition, components, and importance. They introduce the reader to the different types of research designs, such as experimental, correlational, and qualitative designs, and discuss the advantages and limitations of each. They also highlight the significance of developing a clear research question or hypothesis, which serves as the foundation for the research design.

Chapter 2 delves into the process of developing a research design, including the selection of appropriate research methods, sample size determination, and data collection techniques. The authors provide detailed guidance on how to choose the most suitable research methods for a particular research question, considering factors such as feasibility, validity, and reliability. They also discuss the importance of selecting an appropriate sample size to ensure statistical power and validity of the findings.

Chapter 3 explores the process of data analysis, including the identification of appropriate statistical methods, data interpretation, and the presentation of results. The authors introduce the reader to various statistical tools and techniques, such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and hypothesis testing, and discuss how to apply them to analyze and interpret data. They also emphasize the importance of reporting and presenting data in a clear and concise manner, using appropriate graphical and tabular representations.

Chapter 4 focuses on the ethical considerations in research design, including issues such as participant consent, confidentiality, and anonymity. The authors provide detailed guidance. Guidance on how to obtain ethical approval for research projects, including the preparation of ethical review protocols and obtaining informed consent from participants. They also discuss the importance of maintaining participant confidentiality and anonymity throughout the research process and the potential risks and benefits of using sensitive data.

Chapter 5 discusses the challenges and limitations of research design, including issues such as researcher bias, external validity, and the impact of sample size on statistical power. The authors provide insights into how to address these challenges and limitations, including strategies such the use of triangulation, mixed methods research, and the development of robust research protocols. They also discuss the importance of reflexivity in research design, including self-reflection, peer review, and the use of feedback loops to improve the quality and rigor of research.

In conclusion, "Designing Research: A Practical Guide" is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in designing research. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to research design, covering key concepts, processes, and ethical considerations. The authors' use of pedagogical devices, such as "Tip" boxes, "Activity" boxes, and "Putting it into Practice" boxes, makes the book engaging and accessible to a wide range of readers, including novice researchers and experienced scholars. By emphasizing the iterative and reflexive nature of research design, the book encourages readers to think critically about their decisions and develop a well-structured and logical research design that can provide meaningful answers to their research questions or problems. Whether you are embarking on your first research project or are an experienced researcher, this book will be a valuable guide for you.

Weight: 650g
Dimension: 178 x 254 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781544350899