Research Method and Design Appropriateness
Base the research design on the problem under investigation, the theoretical framework of the study, and the purpose of the study. Provide sufficient detail to suggest recommendations to answer the research questions. The purpose of this section is to assure the reader that the type of research design is justified and appropriate for the desired outcomes.
This section should also clearly delineate and explicate the type of design used (e.g., correlational, historical, phenomenological, etc.). Explain and fully justify any deviation from the steps necessary to fulfill the research design; otherwise, the reader may conclude that the procedure is flawed.
Provide a complete description and definition of the independent variables (IV) and dependent variables (DV). The dependent variable is the response or the criterion variable, which is caused or influenced by the independent treatment conditions. The independent variables, which are under the control of the researcher, provide the treatment or act as factors in the study. (Note: if you are doing a qualitative study, there are no IVs and DVs; if you are doing a correlational study, refer to the variables a research variables rather than IV/DV)
The research design establishes a logical sequence of events in the research process. The length of this section depends upon the number of tests performed and the results expected.
A detailed explication of each point of each selected method is required to adequately document the study for replication.
You should include these elements:
Provide a detailed rationale for the research method (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed) appropriateness, including a discussion of why you selected one method instead of another.
Provide a detailed rationale explaining why the proposed research design (experimental, quasiexperimental, nonexperimental, for example) is appropriate to the study. Do not merely list and describe a variety of research designs, but explain why the chosen design is appropriate.
Explain how the proposed design will help you accomplish the study goals.
Explain why the design is the optimum choice for this specific research.