Introduction.
On average, module 3 was amongst the most intriguing modules that I have encountered during my curriculum. Learning on the different survey methods and on how data can be turned into a generalization on a community or population, was indeed outstanding. From the module, I have learnt different research designs and methods that can be used in making valid and reliable generalizations or findings about a population. I have learnt on the different data collection tools and how to choose the best tool based on a hypothesis.
A distinction of quantitative design and its pros and cons from a qualitative study has added on my research knowledge, which I intend to apply in my research skills and experience. What stood out most in this module were the different quantitative designs and measures applied under different circumstances depending on the relationship between variables. I never knew that the hypothesized relationship between variables is what determines the research design technique. I scored 20 points out of 30 which I consider fair though I had aimed higher than that. Below is a review of the items that I missed:
Explaining the concept of experimental study and its application in causal relationships was not clear for me; I never distinguished when to apply an experimental study. Differentiating between a control group and a random selection was also a problem that led to failure of question two. I also missed question five which was about distinguishing co relational studies with phenomenological studies in descriptive research. Question nine and eleven involved choosing an appropriate design for a single-subject and a posttest control group which I think never came out clearly, for me. I also had a problem in sampling techniques, randomization and statistical analysis.
Question eighteen was a test on validity, and it seemed that I also missed on the concept, and especially on internal validity. Question twenty four and thirty had the same concept on application of causal-comparative, experimental and co relational techniques of qualitative research and it seems that differentiating the techniques and establishing where to apply them was also an issue for me.
An analysis of the failed questions indicates that my score could have been better if the understanding of the following three concepts was clearer for me; descriptive survey, experimental survey and characteristics of co relational research. Below is an analysis of how I understood these concepts, what remains uncertain to me about the concepts and the questions that I have for the instructor in regard to the concepts.
A descriptive survey or research method is a design used in quantitative research in describing a situation (Goddard and Melville, 2001). The method only describes a set of collected or observed data. This implies that the design is not appropriate to define or suggest causal relationships (Kothari, 2005). The difference between case study and survey method, however, still remains uncertain. Both of the methods involve an in depth study of a population that determine the findings. However, they remain limited in making accurate decisions. So how is it possible to conduct a study yet provide inaccurate results?
Co relational research is used in showing causal effect relationships and in making future predictions of variables. Observational, survey and archival research, are designs used in this research design in determining the causal effect relationship between variables (Goddard and Melville, 2001). With these in mind, it becomes unclear on the application of these methods, bearing in mind that there is a predetermined hypothesis developed from an observation in the population. The questions that I have for the instructor are, how does one determine the directionality problem since some variables in a survey that involves complementary variables? Are there instances that the relationships are a result of different causes and how do we treat such relationships?
Conclusion.
Module 3 can otherwise be termed as the foundation of research design. The module has improved on my research knowledge and skills that I intend to use in my practice. With the knowledge at hand, it is possible to conduct a quality research study with minimum cases of biasness and sampling challenges. This is a guide for effective development of theories and generalizations that can be applied in making inferences on the behavioral trends of populations. In addition, the module has enabled me to realize the differences, advantages and disadvantages of quantitative studies and this will act as a guide in making choices on the appropriate methods to apply in research methodology.
Reference.
Goddard, W., & Melville, S. (2001). Research methodology: An introduction. Lansdowne: Juta.
Kothari, C. R. (2005). Research methodology: Methods & techniques. New Delhi: New Age International (P) Ltd.
