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1.2.4 Research Design

The research design is like the masterplan that provides
the blueprint for carrying out a robust study from start to
finish. It sets out the roadmap to follow, laying out the key
elements like the objectives, data to be gathered, methods
for collecting that data, plan for analysis and strategy for
reporting the findings. Having this clear research design
mapped out upfront keeps the entire project on track, providing
Research design organisation and direction that can make the study effective.
elements It's the overview that steers the ship, making sure you gather
the right data you need and draw sound conclusions. Just like
following a blueprint turns a pile of materials into a sturdy
building, sticking to the research design helps transform a
research idea into a solid study. Taking time at the outset to
map out the strategy and design pays dividends in conducting
successful research down the line. Key elements of research
design include:

Research approach: Choosing your tactics for a study
is like deciding between taking the motorway or the country
Method matching lanes on a journey. The motorway - quantitative research
objectives - is faster for covering ground quickly with surveys and
statistics. The country lanes - qualitative research - allow you
to meander slowly taking in the scenery through interviews
and observations. Mixed methods give a balance of speed
and depth.

Research problem: Identifying the problem that needs
tackling is like diagnosing an illness before treating it. You've
Diagnose then got to get to the root cause first. Is the patient coughing
treat because of a cold or an allergy? Defining the problem clearly
paves the way for the best solution.

Literature review: Reviewing existing research is like
reading the map before setting out on a hike. It shows you

Learn then lead the landscape and helps you chart the best route ahead based
on what's already known. The last thing you want is to get
lost because you didn't survey the map properly at the start.

Research questions: Research questions are like packing
a list for a long trip - they itemise exactly what you need to
find out. Make sure to include all the essentials you will need
Discovery
to be addressed based on gaps in current knowledge. You
don't want to be stranded halfway through your study with
unanswered questions!

Data collection: Gathering data is like foraging for
materials to build a house. You need to gather the right

SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing 45