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A strong research design aligns all these key elements
into a coherent plan. It provides an organising framework for
conducting research systematically. Key decisions shape the
design:

Exploration vs Explanation: Qualitative design offers
a comprehensive platform for stepping into complex
Deep exploration phenomena, encouraging researchers to explore and
and statistical comprehend intricate aspects of a subject. In contrast,
analysis quantitative design operates effectively in explaining
phenomena by employing hypothesis testing to establish
statistically significant relationships and draw generalisable
conclusions from a larger population.

Deductive vs Inductive Approach: Deduction involves

Specific to formulating a specific hypothesis or theory and then gathering
general & vice data to verify or refute it. It is a top-down approach that seeks
versa to validate existing knowledge. On the other hand, induction
involves collecting data first and then deriving patterns or
theories from the observed data, making it a bottom-up
approach that generates new insights.

Experimental vs Non-Experimental: Experimental
research employs controlled conditions and random
Controlled assignment to manipulate variables, facilitating the
manipulation & establishment of cause-and-effect relationships. Non-
observation-based experimental methods, such as observational or correlational
studies, do not intervene in variables but instead observe
real-world phenomena, providing valuable insights into
associations and relationships.

Cross-sectional vs Longitudinal: Cross-sectional studies
gather data from a diverse group at a single time point, offering
Single-time a snapshot of the subject's characteristics at that moment.
snapshot & Longitudinal studies, however, follow participants over
extended tracking an extended period, allowing researchers to track changes,

identify trends, and explore developmental processes or the
impact of interventions over time.

Thoughtful research design optimises the validity of
findings and rigour of research methods. It integrates elements
Optimised
research design into a logical plan tailored to the study's purpose, questions
and context. A robust design leads to credible conclusions
and relevant discoveries.

SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing 47