Research

Design
Meaning of Research Design
• Research design is the framework of research methods and techniques
chosen by a researcher to conduct a study.
• A research design is the framework or guide used for the planning,
implementation, and analysis of a study.
• It is a systematic plan of what is to be done, how it will be done, how the
data will be analyzed.
• Research design basically provides an outline of how the research will be
carried out and methods that will be used.
• A research design is the arrangement of conditions for collection and
analysis of data in a manner that aims to combine relevance to the
research purpose with economy in procedure.
• It is an overall plan or blueprint; the researcher select to
carry out their study.

• It is a master plan for executing a research project.

• The research design is a framework for planning your

research and answering your research questions.
Creating a research design means making decisions about

The type of data you need

 The location and timescale of the research
 The participants and sources
 The variables and hypotheses (if relevant)
The methods for collecting and analyzing
data
Features of a Good Research
Design
1. Clear Objectives & Research Questions
2. Appropriate Methodology
3. Systematic Sampling
4. Data Collection Methods
5. Robust Data Analysis Plan
6. Control of Variables
7. Ethical Considerations
8. Feasibility & Resource Allocation
9. Pilot Testing
10. Comprehensive Reporting
1. Clear Objectives & Research
Questions

• A good research design begins with clearly designed

objectives and research questions
• SMART- these should be Specific, measurable,
achievable, relevant & Time-bound.
• Well articulated objectives guide the entire research
process, ensuring that the study remains focused
and aligned with its goals.
2. Appropriate Methodology

• The methodology chosen for the research should be

suitable for the research questions & Objectives
• Whether Qualitative, Quantitative or mixed methods,
the research design must align with the nature of the
problem being studied.
• An appropriate methodology will ensure that the
data collected will effectively address the research
questions.
3. Systematic Sampling
• A good research design includes a systematic
approach to sampling.
• The sample should be representative of the
population being studied to ensure that the findings
can be generalized.
• The selection of a sampling method (random,
stratified, cluster etc.) should be justified and aligned
with the research goals.
• This minimizes bias and enhances the validity of the
results
4. Data collection methods

• Effective data collection methods are crucial for

gathering relevant information.
• A good research design specifies the tools and
techniques to be used, such as surveys, interviews,
observations or experiments.
• The chosen methods should be reliable and valid,
capable of capturing the necessary data to address
the research questions.
5. Robust Data Analysis Plan

• A well-defined data analysis plan is a hallmark of

good research design.
• It outlines how the data collected will be analyzed,
including statistical tests or qualitative analysis tests.
• The analysis plan should align with the research
objectives or questions, ensuring that the results can
be interpreted accurately
6. Control of variables

• In experimental research, controlling for extraneous

variables(a factor that can affect the outcome of a research study, but is not being
investigated)is essential to establish causal relationships.

• A good research design incorporates strategies to minimise

the influence of confounding variables such as randomization,
matching or the use of control groups.
• This enhances the internal validity of the study allowing for
clear conclusions.
7. Ethical Considerations

• Ethical considerations are a fundamental feature of a

good research design.
• The proposal should address potential ethical issues
including informed consent , confidentiality and the
treatment of participants.
• Ensuring ethical integrity protects participant’s rights
and enhances credibility of the research
8.Feasibility & Resource
allocation
• A good research design must be feasible within the
constraints of time, budget and available resources.
• The design should include a realistic timeline for each
phase of the research and allocate resources
effectively.
• This ensures that the study can be completed
successfully and that the results are obtained within
the planned timeframe.
9.Pilot Testing

• Incorporating a pilot test into the research design can

help identify potential issues before the main study.
• A pilot study allows researchers to test their data
collection instruments ,refine methodologies and
assess the feasibility of the research design
• This step can significantly enhance the overall quality
of the research
10. Comprehensive Reporting

• Finally, a good research design includes a plan for

comprehensive reporting of the findings.
• This involves not only presenting the results but also
discussing their implications, limitations, and
potential areas for future research.
• a well-structured report enhances the study’s impact
and contributes to the body of knowledge in the
field.
Research Design Elements

1. Accurate purpose statement

2. Techniques to be implemented for collecting and analyzing research
3. The method applied for analyzing collected details
4. Type of research methodology
5. Probable objections for research
6. Settings for the research study
7. Timeline
8. Measurement of analysis
Neutrality

• Neutrality in research design is the characteristic that ensures

research results are unbiased and free from the researcher's own
beliefs or expectations

• When designing your study, you may need to make assumptions

about the data you anticipate collecting.

• The projected results should remain neutral and free from research
bias
Reliability

• The consistency of a study's measurements and the

reproducibility of its results
• With regularly conducted research, the researcher expects
similar results every time.
• You’ll only be able to reach the desired results if your design
is reliable.
• Your plan should indicate how to form research questions to
ensure the standard of results.
Validity

• A measure of how well the research results represent reality

• There are multiple measuring tools available.
• However, the only correct measuring tools are those which
help a researcher in gauging results according to the
objective of the research.
• The questionnaire developed from this design will then be
valid.
Generalization

• Generalization is the process of drawing broad conclusions

from a study's results and applying them to a larger
population.
• The outcome of your design should apply to a population and
not just a restricted sample.
• A generalized method implies that your survey can be
conducted on any part of a population with similar accuracy.
Benefits of Research Design

• Clarity of research objectives: Research design provides a clear understanding of the

research objectives and the desired outcomes validity and .
• Increased validity and reliability: To ensure the reliability of results, research design help
to minimize the risk of bias and helps to control extraneous variables.
• Improved data collection: Research design helps to ensure that the proper data is
collected, and data is collected systematically and consistently.
• Better data analysis: Research design helps ensure that the collected data can be
analyzed effectively, providing meaningful insights and conclusions.
• Improved communication: A well-designed research helps ensure the results are clean
and influential within the research team and external stakeholders.
• Efficient use of resources: reducing the risk of waste and maximizing the impact of the
research, research design helps to ensure that resources are used efficiently.
 Descriptive

• In a descriptive composition, a researcher is solely interested in describing

the situation or case under their research study.
• It is a theory-based design method created by gathering, analyzing, and
presenting collected data.
• This allows a researcher to provide insights into the why and how of
research.
• Descriptive design helps others better understand the need for the
research.
• If the problem statement is not clear, you can conduct exploratory
research
Experimental

• Experimental research establishes a relationship between the cause

and effect of a situation.
• It is a causal research design where one observes the impact
caused by the independent variable on the dependent variable.
• For example, one monitors the influence of an independent variable
such as a price on a dependent variable such as customer
satisfaction or brand loyalty.
• It is an efficient research method as it contributes to solving a
problem.
Correlational research

• Correlational research is a non-experimental

research technique.
• It helps researchers establish a relationship between two
closely connected variables without manipulating them.
• There is no assumption while evaluating a relationship
between two other variables, and statistical analysis
techniques calculate the relationship between them.
• This type of research requires two different groups.
Diagnostic research

• In diagnostic design, the researcher is looking to evaluate the

underlying cause of a specific topic or phenomenon.
• This method helps one learn more about the factors that
create troublesome situations.
Basic Principles of
Experimental Designs
• The design of an experiment involves carefully planning how
the experiment will be conducted,
• including the methods used to collect and analyze data to
meet the experiment's objectives.
• Statistical methods play a crucial role in drawing meaningful
conclusions from the collected data.
• This approach is particularly effective when there is a risk of
experimental error in the data.
• An experimental problem involves two key components:

• (1) designing the experiment, and

• (2) performing statistical analysis for valid conclusions.

• These two elements are interrelated, and understanding their

connection requires a grasp of the fundamental principles of
experimental design.

• These core principles are:

1.Randomization
2.Replication
3.Local control or blocking
Randomization in Experimental
Design

• Randomization involves assigning treatments to experimental

groups in a random way.
• This ensures that every group has an equal chance of
receiving any treatment, helping to eliminate bias and
making the experiment more reliable and authentic.
• For example, if product quality varies, randomizing the
assignment of raw materials to different operators helps
minimize the impact of these differences and ensures a fair
distribution of any variations across the experiment.
Principle of Replication

• Replication means repeating the experiment multiple

times.
• Each treatment is applied to several experimental
units, which improves the accuracy of the results.
• Repeating the whole experiment can further
enhance precision, making the study’s outcomes
more reliable.
Principle of Local Control Or
Blocking

• A technique that aims to increase the precision of an

experiment by reducing the influence of extraneous variables
• It involves controlling all factors except the ones being
investigated.
• Randomization and replication alone cannot control all
external factors.
• Local control helps manage sources of variation that
randomization and replication might miss.
Characteristics of a good Research Tool-Reliability and Validity
Validity

• Validity refers to the extent to which a research tool

accurately measures what it is intended to measure.
• A good research tool should have a high degree of validity.
• In other words, it should measure what it claims to
measure.
• A valid research tool will help researchers make accurate
conclusions about the variables they are studying.
• To ensure validity, researchers need to design their

research tool to be specific to their research question.

• They should also test the tool to ensure that it is

measuring what it is intended to measure.

• There are different types of validity that researchers can

assess, including content validity, construct validity, and

criterion-related validity.
Reliability

• Reliability refers to the extent to which a research tool produces

consistent results.
• A reliable research tool should produce the same results when used
repeatedly under similar conditions.
• To ensure reliability, researchers should conduct a pilot study to test
the research tool and identify any sources of error.
• They can also use statistical techniques to assess the reliability of
the research tool.
• The most common method used to assess reliability is the test-
retest method, where the same participants are tested with the
same tool at two different times, and the results are compared.
Sensitivity

• Sensitivity refers to the ability of a research tool to

detect differences or changes in the variables being
measured.
• A sensitive research tool should be able to identify even
small differences in the variables being studied.
• To ensure sensitivity, researchers need to choose a
research tool that is appropriate for the variable being
measured.
• They should also ensure that the tool can detect small
changes in the variable.
Objectivity

• Objectivity refers to the degree to which a research tool is

free from the influence of the researcher’s personal biases
or opinions.
• A good research tool should be objective and produce
unbiased results.
• To ensure objectivity, researchers should use standardized
procedures when administering the research tool.
• They should also ensure that the tool is designed to
minimize the influence of any personal biases that might
affect the results.
Standardization

• Standardization refers to the extent to which a research

tool can be used consistently across different settings and
by different researchers.
• A good research tool should be standardized so that it can
be used reliably and consistently.
• To ensure standardization, researchers should provide
clear instructions for using the research tool.
• They should also provide training to anyone who will be
using the tool to ensure that it is used consistently across
different settings and by different researchers.
Ease of use

• A good research tool should be easy to use and

administer.
• It should be designed so that it can be used without
any special training or expertise.
• To ensure ease of use, researchers should design the
research tool to be user-friendly.
• They should also provide clear instructions for using
the tool and offer support to anyone who needs help
Availability

• A good research tool should be readily available and

accessible.
• It should be easy to obtain and use by researchers
who need it.
• To ensure availability, researchers should make the
research tool available online or through commercial
sources.
• They should also ensure that the tool is affordable
and accessible to researchers who need it.
Acceptability

• A good research tool should be acceptable to

participants and stakeholders.
• It should not cause any harm or discomfort to the
people who are being studied.
• To ensure acceptability, researchers should design
the research tool with the needs and preferences of
the participants and stakeholders in mind.
• They should also obtain informed consent from
participants before using the tool.
Cost-effectiveness

• A good research tool should provide value for money.

• It should be cost-effective and provide benefits that
outweigh the costs of using it.
• To ensure cost-effectiveness, researchers should
choose a research tool that is affordable and that
provides the necessary level of accuracy and
reliability.
• They should also consider the potential benefits.
Contents of a Research Plan

• Research question: The core of the research plan, this is the question that the research paper will aim to answer.
• Research design: A framework or plan for conducting the research, outlining the methods and steps for collecting and analyzing
data.
• Methodology: The process used to answer the research question. There are different types of methodologies, so it's important to
choose one that best fits the research question.
• Aims and objectives: Broad statements that describe the desired outcomes and general intentions of the research.
• Literature review: A summary and synthesis of the ideas and arguments of others.
• Research schedule: A timeline that shows how long each activity will take and when stakeholders can expect to see milestones.
• References: A list of relevant prior research that directs readers to other sources.
• Project background: Information about the project.
• Resources: The resources that are required.
• Target audience: A description of the target audience, including demographics, sample sizes, and scopes.
• Key performance indicators (KPIs): Key performance indicators for the project.
• Cost estimates: Estimates of the costs of the project.