This week we covered two research methods: quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative research explains phenomena using numbers and statistical data, seeking cause-effect relationships through deductive reasoning. Qualitative research does not rely on statistics; it focuses on process, context, and meaning, understanding problems through inductive reasoning.
The research process consists of four elements: epistemology determines what worldview guides the research, theoretical perspective decides what to study, methodology establishes the research strategy, and methods are the specific tools used.
Choosing which method depends on your research aims. Exploratory research is suitable for qualitative methods, using interviews to collect data. Confirmatory research is suitable for quantitative methods, using surveys and statistical analysis.
Methodology is the section of your paper that describes how you conducted the research and why. It should be written in the past tense. Research methods refer to the specific steps, while methodology is the entire chapter; they are different.
Critical thinking should be like a criminal investigation: thoroughly investigate the problem, support and challenge ideas, cross-examine the literature, and reach a conclusion based on evidence.