Methods of Research

Research methods for data collection fall into one of two categories: inductive methods or deductive
methods.

Inductive research methods focus on the analysis of an observation and are usually associated with
qualitative research. Deductive research methods focus on the verification of an observation and are
typically associated with quantitative research.

Research definition

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research is a method that enables non-numerical data collection through open-ended
methods such as interviews, case studies and focus groups.

It enables researchers to collect data on personal experiences, feelings or behaviours, as well as the
reasons behind them. Because of this, qualitative research is often used in fields such as social science,
psychology and philosophy and other areas where it is useful to know the connection between what has
occurred and why it has occurred.

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is a method that collects and analyses numerical data through statistical analysis.

It allows us to quantify variables, uncover relationships, and make generalisations across a larger
population. As a result, quantitative research is often used in the natural and physical sciences such as
engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, finance, and medical research, etc.

What does Research Involve?

Research often follows a systematic approach known as a Scientific Method, which is carried out using
an hourglass model.
A research project first starts with a problem statement, or rather, the research purpose for engaging in
the study. This can take the form of the ‘scope of the study’ or ‘aims and objectives’ of your research
topic.

Subsequently, a literature review is carried out and a hypothesis is formed. The researcher then creates
a research methodology and collects the data.

The data is then analysed using various statistical methods and the null hypothesis is either accepted or
rejected.

In both cases, the study and its conclusion are officially written up as a report or research paper, and the
researcher may also recommend lines of further questioning. The report or research paper is then
shared with the wider research community, and the cycle begins all over again.

Although these steps outline the overall research process, keep in mind that research projects are highly
dynamic and are therefore considered an iterative process with continued refinements and not a series
of fixed stages.