Which of the six types is most appropriate for a given study depends upon the way in which the problem is defined. The same general problem can often be investigated using several types of research. When analyzing a study in order to determine the specific type of research represented, one strategy is to ask yourself a series of questions; first, does the study represent a qualitative or a quantitative approach?
Guidelines for Classification
If the study is qualitative, it should be easy to differentiate between historical and qualitative studies. If the study is quantitative, Is the researcher attempting to establish a cause effect relationship? Is the alleged cause, or independent variable, manipulated by the researcher? Is the researcher attempting to establish a relationship or use a relationship for prediction?