Research Tools and Techniques: Research Design

Lecture 4

In this Lecture

§ What is research design

§ Need for research design

§ Feature of a good research design

§ How to develop a research design

RESEARCH DESIGN

A research design outlines the detailed process of conducting research. It typically specifies the methods for data collection, the tools or instruments to be utilized, the procedures for employing these instruments, and the planned approach for analyzing the collected data.

A research design refers to the framework of methods and procedures employed to collect and analyze data related to the variables outlined in the research problem.

A research design is a plan, structure and strategy of investigation so conceived as to obtain answers to research questions or problems. The plan is the complete scheme or programme of the research. It includes an outline of what the investigator will do from writing the hypotheses and their operational implications to the final analysis of data. (Kerlinger)

“Research design is a master plan specifying the methods and procedures for collection and analyzing the needed information.” (William Zikmund)

The research design serves as the conceptual framework guiding the entire research process. It acts as a blueprint for collecting, measuring, and analyzing data. This framework outlines the steps the researcher will take, from formulating the hypothesis and determining its practical implications to conducting the final data analysis.

Specifically, design-related decisions involve to the following aspects (Research Design gives answers):

· What is the purpose of the study?

· What is the rationale for conducting the study?

· What is the location of the study?

· What kind of data is necessary for the study?

· Where can the needed data be sourced?

· What time frame will the study cover?

· How will the sample be designed?

· What methods will be employed to gather data?

· What approach will be used for data analysis?

· In what format will the report be presented?

Based on the design considerations outlined, the research design can be divided into the following components:

1. Sampling design: Focuses on the approach used to select the items or units for observation in the study.

2. Observational design: Relates to determining the methods and conditions under which observations will be conducted.

3. Statistical design: Addresses the number of items to be observed and outlines how the collected data will be analyzed.

4. Operational design: Specifies the techniques and processes for implementing the sampling, statistical, and observational plans.

NEED FOR RESEARCH DESIGN

· To minimize the expenditure:

The research design significantly impacts the reliability of the results obtained. It serves as a strong foundation for the entire study, ensuring its effectiveness. By outlining a comprehensive plan in advance, it maximizes the information gathered while minimizing the expenditure of effort, time, and resources.

· To facilitate the smooth scaling:

Research design is essential because it ensures the efficient execution of various research tasks, allowing for the collection of the maximum amount of information with minimal use of effort, time, and resources.

· To collect the relevant data and technique:

Research design stands for advance planning of the methods to be adopted for collecting the relevant data and the techniques to be used in their analysis, keeping in view the objective of the research and the availability of staff time and money. Poor preparation of research design upset the entire project.

· To provide blue print for plans:

A research design is essential because it facilitates the seamless execution of various research tasks. It serves as a blueprint that guides the planning of data collection methods and the techniques used for data analysis when preparing a research project. Just like constructing an economical and aesthetically pleasing house requires a blueprint and a map, research also requires a design to ensure the smooth flow of its operations.

· To provide an overview to other experts:

A research design offers a comprehensive outline of the entire research process. It allows the researcher to seek guidance and feedback from field experts. The design also aids the investigator in structuring their ideas, helping to identify and correct any mistakes.

· To provide a direction:

A research design offers clear guidance to other team members and collaborators involved in the process. The researcher reviews existing literature and explores new (alternative) methods.

· For Helping in decision making

· To Prevents aimless searching

· To Ensures reliable outcomes

· To Enhances research efficiency

· To Eliminate bias and marginal errors

FEATURE OF A GOOD RESEARCH DESIGN

· Objectivity.

· Neutrality

· Reliability.

· Validity.

· Generalizability.

For ensuring the generalization we should confirm that our research problem has the following characteristics;

1. The problem is clearly formulated.

2. The population is clearly defined.

3. Most appropriate techniques of sample selection are used to

form an appropriate sample.

4. Appropriate statistical analysis has been carried out.

5. The findings of the study are capable of generalizations.

• Selection of Units of Analysis.

• Choice of Variable.

• Identification of Relationship.

· Adequate information

An ideal design should take into account important factors like;

1. Identifying the exact research problem to be studied

2. The objective of the research

3. The process of obtaining information

4. The availability of adequate and skilled manpower and

5. The availability of adequate financial resources for carrying research.

How to develop a research design

· Classify the intended outcome

· Developing the research question

· What needs to be measured

· Select the population for the experiment

· Identify the ideal data collection method

· Use correct analysis tools

· Choose a channel for disseminating your findings

Essential elements of the research design

· Accurate purpose statement.

· Techniques to be implemented for collecting and analyzing research.

· The method applied for analyzing collected details.

· Type of research methodology.

· Probable objections for research

Example

Title: The Impact of Sleep Quality on Academic Performance Among College Students

Research Problem:

College students frequently face challenges with sleep quality due to factors like academic pressure, inconsistent schedules, and unhealthy lifestyle choices, which can greatly affect their academic success and overall health. This research intends to explore the connection between sleep quality and academic performance by utilizing sleep tracking devices, surveys, and academic records, aiming to provide a thorough understanding of the issue. The study plans to develop practical strategies, including sleep hygiene education and time management interventions specifically designed for students, to enhance cognitive function, boost academic results, and promote better well-being. To ensure its effectiveness and relevance, the research will require access to student participants, sleep tracking tools, survey instruments, academic data (with consent), and collaboration with experts in psychology, education, and health sciences.

Type of Research Design:

Correlational Research Design

Objective:

To determine whether there is a correlation between sleep quality (measured by hours of sleep and sleep disturbances) and academic performance (measured by GPA).

Research Questions:

1. Is there a significant relationship between sleep quality and academic performance among college students?

2. Does the number of hours of sleep affect students' academic performance?

Hypothesis:

H₀ (Null Hypothesis): There is no significant relationship between sleep quality and academic performance. H₁ (Alternative Hypothesis): There is a significant relationship between sleep quality and academic performance.

Methodology:

· Participants: 200 college students from various disciplines.

· Sampling Method: Convenience sampling.

· Data Collection:

Participants will fill out a questionnaire about their average sleep patterns, including hours of sleep, quality of sleep, and any sleep disturbances (e.g., insomnia).
Academic performance will be measured using the students’ current GPA.

· Data Analysis:

Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) will be used to summarize sleep patterns and academic performance.
Pearson correlation coefficient will be calculated to assess the strength and direction of the relationship between sleep quality and GPA.

Conclusion:

Based on the data analysis, the study will determine whether sleep quality is significantly correlated with academic performance and provide recommendations for students to improve their academic outcomes by optimizing sleep.

This design uses a correlational approach, where no variables are manipulated, and the researcher only measures the relationship between two variables: sleep quality and academic performance.

Budget Required

Time required

Note: This is a general framework. The specific details of the research design will vary depending on the scope, objectives, and resources of the study.

Research Title:

"Evaluation of the Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Erosion in Bangladesh"

Research Problem:

Coastal areas in Bangladesh are becoming more susceptible to erosion as a result of the growing effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels, more intense storm surges, and shifting weather patterns. This situation poses serious risks to livelihoods, infrastructure, and ecosystems. To tackle this issue, the research suggests a thorough assessment of climate change's effects on coastal erosion by utilizing advanced geospatial tools, analyzing historical data, and employing predictive modeling. The goal is to provide insights that will guide sustainable coastal management practices, reduce erosion risks, and protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems. The study will need access to geospatial datasets, climate models, collaboration with experts in environmental and coastal engineering, and funding for field surveys and analytical tools.

1. Introduction

· Background: Briefly discuss the increasing concerns of climate change and its potential impacts on coastal regions, including sea-level rise, increased storm intensity, and changes in precipitation patterns.

· Problem Statement: Clearly define the specific research problem. For example: "To investigate the extent to which climate change-induced factors are contributing to coastal erosion in [Specific Coastal Region] and to assess the potential future impacts."

2. Research Objectives:

· To quantify historical rates of coastal erosion in the study area.

· To analyze the influence of climate change factors (sea-level rise, storm surges, extreme rainfall events) on coastal erosion.

· To develop predictive models for future coastal erosion under different climate change scenarios.

· To assess the vulnerability of critical coastal infrastructure (e.g., roads, buildings, coastal defenses) to erosion.

· To recommend adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of coastal erosion.

3. Literature Review

· Existing Research: Review relevant literature on:

o Climate change impacts on coastal zones.

o Coastal erosion processes and mechanisms.

o Methods for assessing coastal erosion (e.g., remote sensing, historical data analysis, numerical modeling).

o Climate change projections and scenarios for the study region.

o Successful case studies of coastal erosion mitigation and adaptation.

4. Methodology

· Study Area: Clearly define the geographical boundaries of the study area.

· Data Collection:

Historical Data: Gather historical data on:

Coastal erosion rates (e.g., from aerial photographs, topographic maps, shoreline surveys).
Sea-level rise records.
Historical storm events (intensity, frequency).
Precipitation patterns.

Field Data: Conduct field surveys to:

Collect ground-truth data on coastal topography and sediment characteristics.
Install monitoring equipment (e.g., tide gauges, wave buoys) to collect real-time data.

Remote Sensing: Utilize satellite imagery and aerial photography to:

Monitor shoreline changes over time.
Map coastal features (e.g., beaches, dunes, cliffs).
Assess vegetation cover and land use.

5. Data Analysis:

Statistical Analysis: Analyze historical data to identify trends in coastal erosion and its relationship with climate change factors.
Spatial Analysis: Utilize GIS software to map and analyze spatial patterns of erosion and vulnerability.
Numerical Modeling: Develop and calibrate numerical models (e.g., hydrodynamic models, sediment transport models) to simulate coastal processes and predict future erosion.

6. Vulnerability Assessment:

Identify and map critical coastal infrastructure.
Assess the vulnerability of these assets to different levels of coastal erosion.

7. Data Management

· Develop a robust data management plan, including data collection protocols, storage procedures, quality control measures, and data security considerations.

8. Ethical Considerations

· Ensure ethical data collection and analysis practices.

· Obtain necessary permits and approvals for field work and data collection.

· Respect local communities and stakeholders.

9. Dissemination and Communication

· Disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and technical reports.

· Communicate findings to relevant stakeholders (e.g., policymakers, coastal managers, local communities) in an accessible and understandable manner.

10. Project Timeline and Budget

· Develop a realistic project timeline with clear milestones and deliverables.

· Prepare a detailed budget outlining all anticipated costs.

11. Team and Roles

· Assemble a multidisciplinary research team with expertise in coastal engineering, hydrology, climatology, remote sensing, and GIS.

· Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each team member.

Note: This is a general framework. The specific details of the research design will vary depending on the scope, objectives, and resources of the study.

Title: The Effect of Different Concrete Mixes on the Compressive Strength of Concrete

Research Problem:

Concrete's compressive strength is a critical factor in determining its structural performance, yet it can vary significantly based on the mix composition, leading to challenges in optimizing strength for specific applications. This research aims to evaluate the effect of different concrete mixes on compressive strength by experimenting with varying proportions of cement, aggregates, water, and supplementary materials. The study will use standardized testing methods to compare the strength and performance of these mixes under controlled conditions. The findings will help optimize concrete mix designs for enhanced strength and durability, benefiting construction efficiency and sustainability. Resources required include access to testing facilities, materials for concrete preparation, and collaboration with experts in material science and structural engineering.

Type of Research Design:

Experimental Research Design

Objective:

To determine how different concrete mix ratios (cement, water, sand, and aggregates) affect the compressive strength of concrete after 28 days of curing.

Research Questions:

1. What is the effect of the cement-to-water ratio on the compressive strength of concrete?

2. How do varying amounts of aggregates and sand in the mix influence the strength of the concrete?

Hypothesis:

H₀ (Null Hypothesis): There is no significant effect of the concrete mix proportions on the compressive strength. H₁ (Alternative Hypothesis): The compressive strength of concrete is significantly affected by the mix proportions.

Methodology:

· Materials:

o Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), fine aggregates (sand), coarse aggregates (gravel), and potable water.

o Standardized tools for measuring materials (scales, mixing containers).

· Concrete Mixes:

o The study will test three different mix proportions:

1. Mix 1: 1:2:3 (Cement: Sand: Aggregate) with a 0.5 water-to-cement ratio.

2. Mix 2: 1:1.5:3.5 with a 0.4 water-to-cement ratio.

3. Mix 3: 1:2.5:2.5 with a 0.6 water-to-cement ratio.

· Sampling:

o Concrete samples (cylinders) will be made in sets of 5 for each mix type.

o Each set of cylinders will be tested for compressive strength at 7, 14, and 28 days after curing.

· Data Collection:

o The compressive strength of each concrete cylinder will be determined using a universal testing machine.

o The average compressive strength at each interval will be recorded for each mix.

Data Analysis:

· Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize the compressive strength values.

· Analysis of variance (ANOVA) will be conducted to determine if there are statistically significant differences in compressive strength between the different mix proportions.

Conclusion:

Based on the results, the study will determine which mix ratio yields the highest compressive strength for concrete and provide recommendations for optimal concrete mix designs for construction purposes.

Budget Required

Time Required

Note: This is a general framework. The specific details of the research design will vary depending on the scope, objectives, and resources of the study.

Research Tools and Techniques: Research Design