#methodology of quantitative methods

[wellnoe]

i am perhaps more amenable than a lot of people to the characterization of history as 'fiction', but that's because i think the really strident knee-jerk denial of that concept leads to a lot of weird appeals to objectivity or platonic truth or normative/pseudo-scientific forms of historical writing as un-stylized, or un-aesthetic. and i think all those reactions can lead to a very complacent and unintentional engagement with history as a discipline.

[marketxcel]

5 Methods of Data Collection for Quantitative Research

Discover five powerful techniques for gathering quantitative data in research, essential for uncovering trends, patterns, and correlations. Explore proven methodologies that empower researchers to collect and analyze data effectively.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Case Study

Case Study - a highly detailed analysis of a particular subject, usually involving multiple sets of quantitative data observed over a period of time that allow researchers to draw conclusions in the context of the real world.

Throughout the years, the results of case study research have given us a greater and more holistic understanding in fields such as medicine, political and social sciences, and economics.

Researchers have used case studies to explore relationships between variables and a central subject, whether that subject be a human's reaction to medication, a country’s reaction to an economic crisis, or the effect of pesticides on crops over a period of time.

This methodology relies heavily on data collection and qualitative research to answer hypotheses in multiple fields.

Types of Case Studies

There are several different kinds of case studies. Here are a few:

Illustrative case study: Researchers use observations on every angle of a specific case, generally resulting in a thorough and deep data analysis.

Exploratory case study: Primarily used to identify research questions and qualitative methods to explore in subsequent studies, this type of case study is frequently in use in the field of political science.

Cumulative case study: This type relies on the analysis of qualitative data gathered over a range of timelines, which can draw new conclusions from old research methodology or studies.

Critical instance case study: Used to answer questions about the cause and effects of a particular event, critical instance case studies are helpful in cases that pose unique perspectives on otherwise established truths.

Marketing case study: This type of case study evaluates the quantifiable results of a marketing strategy, new product, or other business decision.

Examples of Case Studies

Here are a three examples of case studies in different fields:

Content marketing: In the marketing context, case studies typically explain how the business responded to the needs of a certain client, and whether or not the response was effective. Since these types of case studies are a tool to attract new customers rather than to merely share information, they should contain clear headings, attractive fonts, and infographic data that is easy to interpret.

Neuroscience: The tragic case of Phineas Gage allowed researchers to observe the changes in behavior and personality he experienced after surviving a horrific railroad accident that damaged parts of his brain. This led to a better understanding of the relationship between our frontal lobe and emotional functioning. This type of research is an example of a case study that would be impossible to ethically replicate in a laboratory, but nonetheless was a breakthrough in neuroscience and health care.

Psychoanalysis: Modern talk therapy owes much to the individual case of Anna O, otherwise known as Bertha Pappenheim. While living in Vienna in 1880, she began experiencing severe hallucinations and mood swings. Joseph Bruer, a pioneer in psychoanalysis, took Bertha under his care, and after multiple sessions where she discussed her inner emotional state and fears with Bruer, her symptoms waned. This case study is often seen as the first successful example of psychoanalysis.

Benefits of a Case Study

A case study can allow you to:

Collect wide-reaching data: Using a case study is an excellent way to gather large amounts of data on your subject, generally resulting in research that is more grounded in reality. For example, a case study approach focused on business research could have dozens of different data sources such as expense reports, profit and loss statements, and information on customer retention. This collected data provides different angles you can use to draw conclusions in a real-life context.

Conduct studies in an accessible way: You do not need to work in a lab to conduct a case study. In a number of cases, researchers use case study methodology to study things that cannot be replicated in a laboratory setting, such as observing the spending habits of a group of people over a period of months.

Reduce bias: Since case studies can capture a variety of perspectives, researchers’ own preconceptions on a subjects have less of an influence.

See connections more clearly: Through case studies, you can track paths of positive or negative development, which makes specific results repeatable, verifiable, and explainable.

Source ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[m2iconsulting]

Baseline Survey for CSR Program by M2i Consulting: Laying the Foundation for Impactful Initiatives

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs play a crucial role in driving social and economic development. However, for these programs to be truly effective, they must be based on a clear understanding of the community’s needs, existing challenges, and potential opportunities. This is where a baseline survey for CSR programs becomes essential. M2i Consulting, a trusted name in social impact assessments, specializes in conducting comprehensive baseline surveys to ensure CSR initiatives create meaningful and measurable change.

What is a Baseline Survey for CSR?

A baseline survey is an initial assessment conducted before the implementation of a CSR program. It gathers essential data on socio-economic conditions, demographic details, and key indicators relevant to the initiative. This survey acts as a reference point, allowing organizations to track progress and measure the impact of their CSR activities over time.

Importance of Baseline Surveys in CSR Programs

Informed Decision-Making – A baseline survey provides valuable insights that help companies design targeted and effective CSR interventions.

Resource Optimization – Understanding the real needs of the community ensures that funds and efforts are directed toward the most critical areas.

Impact Measurement – By comparing pre- and post-intervention data, organizations can evaluate the success of their CSR initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement – A well-executed survey helps in gaining community trust and participation, making CSR programs more sustainable.

Regulatory Compliance – Many governments and regulatory bodies require companies to demonstrate the impact of their CSR initiatives, making baseline surveys a necessity.

How M2i Consulting Conducts Baseline Surveys

At M2i Consulting, we follow a structured and data-driven approach to conducting baseline surveys for CSR programs:

Defining Objectives

We begin by understanding the CSR goals of the organization and identifying key impact areas that need assessment.

Designing the Survey Framework

Our team develops a detailed survey framework, including qualitative and quantitative research methods, to capture relevant data effectively.

Data Collection

Using tools such as field interviews, focus group discussions, and digital surveys, we gather comprehensive data from targeted communities.

Data Analysis & Reporting

We analyze the collected data to identify key insights, trends, and potential challenges that may affect CSR program implementation.

Recommendations & Strategy Development

Based on our findings, we provide actionable recommendations to help organizations structure their CSR programs for maximum impact.

Why Choose M2i Consulting for Baseline Surveys?

Expertise in Social Research – With years of experience in impact assessment, M2i Consulting ensures reliable and accurate data collection.

Custom-Tailored Solutions – We design surveys that align with specific CSR objectives and industry requirements.

Use of Advanced Tools & Methodologies – Our approach integrates modern research techniques, including data analytics and geospatial mapping.

Commitment to Social Impact – We are dedicated to helping organizations create sustainable and transformative CSR initiatives.

Conclusion

A baseline survey for CSR programs is an indispensable step in designing and executing impactful social initiatives. By partnering with M2i Consulting, organizations can ensure that their CSR efforts are evidence-based, goal-oriented, and aligned with the real needs of communities. Our expertise in conducting baseline surveys helps businesses maximize their social impact while fulfilling corporate and regulatory responsibilities.

Are you planning a CSR initiative and need a baseline survey? Get in touch with M2i Consulting today to lay the foundation for a successful and sustainable CSR program!

[vtellswhat]

Understanding the Types of Literature Review: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding types of literature review: A comprehensive guide.

Literature reviews are critical components of academic research that give an overview of the available knowledge relating to a particular topic. This helps to identify gaps, forms a basis for further research, and grounds the study on established theory and evidence. Literature reviews, however, do not fit in one single type. Rather they are of different types. Each depends on the purpose and approach of the research. Let's have a detailed view of the types of literature reviews. ### 1. Narrative Review

A narrative review, sometimes known as the traditional one, gives a general overview of research regarding a particular topic. It is descriptive and focuses on summarizing and synthesizing findings without much depth analysis.

Key Features:

Focuses on storytelling and descriptive summary. - Majorly used in fields such as humanities and social sciences.

Lacks a systematic methodology for selecting studies, which can lead to bias.

Purpose:

Narrative reviews are ideal for understanding a topic broadly and identifying general trends or patterns in the literature.

2. Systematic Review

A systematic review is a rigorous and structured approach to synthesizing research. It follows a predefined protocol to ensure transparency, reproducibility, and comprehensiveness.

Key Features:

Has explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Is planned in databases systematically to find studies.

Keeps bias at a minimum by having a clear methodology.

Purpose:

Systematic reviews are applied to answer particular research questions, especially in fields like healthcare, psychology, and social sciences. Systematic reviews come with immense value because of their reliability and objectivity.

3. Meta-Analysis

A meta-analysis is a type of systematic review that pools data from many studies together using statistical methods to make their own synthesis, which tries to produce a quantitative overview of research findings.

Key Features:

Assumes all studies share similarities in methodology to compare them. - Offers results with statistical significance by combining data. - Is considered a demanding statistical process.

Meta-analyses are commonly used in medicine and psychology to determine the effectiveness of interventions or treatments. ***

4. Scoping Review

Scoping reviews are exploratory and aim to map the breadth and scope of research on a topic. Less focused on answering specific questions and more on identifying research gaps, they are considered exploratory. #### Key Features:

Wide inclusion criteria, casting a net to encompass all aspects of a topic. Does not critically evaluate the quality of included studies in depth. Often a precursor to a systematic review. #### Purpose:

Scoping reviews are suitable for nascent research areas or subjects where there are a few published studies to date.

5. Integrative Review

An integrative review combines qualitative and quantitative research to achieve a holistic understanding of the topic under review. * Key Features:

It integrates data based on diverse methodologies.

This integration encourages innovation.

It is useful in the development of theories or models * Purpose:

It is common to find such reviews in nursing, education, and healthcare research where mixed methods are often employed.

6. Critical Review

A critical review evaluates and critiques existing literature, often proposing new frameworks or perspectives.

Key Features:

Involves in-depth analysis and interpretation.

Challenges existing assumptions or theories.

Requires a strong theoretical foundation.

Purpose:

Critical reviews are ideal for advanced academic writing, such as dissertations and theoretical papers.

7. Theoretical Review

Theoretical reviews focus on examining theories related to a topic rather than empirical research.

Key Features:

Compares and contrasts different theoretical frameworks.

Identifies theoretical gaps.

Explores the evolution of ideas over time.

Purpose:

These reviews are often used in disciplines like sociology, philosophy, and psychology to refine or propose theoretical models.

8. Annotated Bibliography

A much simpler form of literature review is the annotated bibliography-an overview and critique of each source.

Key Features:

Lists sources with brief descriptions and critiques. Not synthesizing findings from the studies. Serves as a precursor to further developed reviews.

Purpose:

This type is commonly used for coursework or preliminary research to organize sources.

Conclusion

Each type of literature review has a specific purpose and is appropriate for a range of research objectives. Whether the use is about embracing broad trends in a narrative review or diving deep in statistical relationships as in meta-analysis, awareness of the types can guide you towards choosing the right approach for your study. The right type chosen ensures that your research not only becomes more robust but also relevant and impactful in its field. Mastering the art of literature review will keep researchers conversing effectively in the academic arenas while paving a way to make further discoveries.

Need expert guidance for your PhD, Master’s thesis, or research writing journey? Click the link below to access resources and support tailored to help you excel every step of the way. Unlock your full research potential today!

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writebing/

[bipdf]

What happens in research methods? Is it just a bunch of googling?

i wish it was just a bunch of googling, anon. 🤣 research methods are methodologies we use in research. there are two commonly known research methods, and they're qualitative method and quantitative method. also, when it comes to research itself, it's seriously a serious thing for people who want to pursue their career in academia. if you want to publish your papers, your research should be original and new since you're contributing something to the world. however, it's important to have references, your research topic shouldn't be entirely a newborn baby of an idea or it be something that no one has ever talked about. there's nothing wrong in researching on things that no one has done before, but you'd have to find solid evidences for your research in order to prove to the academicians that your research is purely based on facts. plus, we have a section called 'literature review' in research where you'd have to draw connections with other research papers that deals with the same research topic as yours or at least one aspect of your research.

[hamsteriffic]

Miraculous Fandom Stats

Cloudy with a chance of Miraculous

As mentioned in my previous post, the ML fanfics on Ao3 can reflect changing opinions and theories. I wanted to look at this in a more qualitative manner using Ao3 tags, starting with The Miraculous Big Bang (methodology below the cut).

The Miraculous Big Bang is a fandom event that has been running for several years where people collaborate to write fanfics and draw fanart. These collections provide a good snapshot of fanfics written at a particular point in time.

🖤 Word Clouds

The Miraculous Big Bang was run in 2017, 2021, 2022, 2023, which covers a period of six years from Season 1 to Season 5 (see below the cut for more details on the methods).*

2017: There were a lot of tags that mentioned Season 2 spoilers, which suggests that these fics are based off mostly Season 1 content. This collection of fics had a lot of Historical AUs (Sample size: 32) [1].

2021: By now, Luka Couffaine and Kagami Tsurugi feature prominently in the tags for Miraculous Big Bang 2021 (Sample Size: 43 fics) [2].

2022: There are a lot of darker undertones in this word cloud (Sample size: 34 fics).

2023: Noticeable jump in fics labelled for Sentimonsters as well as LGQBTI+ tags (Sample size: 37 fics) [4]

🖤 In summary

Judging from the 2023 big bang, fics were written in the six months prior to posting, so this would cover a pretty sizeable timeframe. For example, Season 2 was aired between December 2017 and November 2018; and introduced rival love interests Luka Couffaine and Kagami Tsurugi.

Luka Couffaine was tagged an average of 10 and Kagami Tsurugi 7.7 times across 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Interestingly, Lila Rossi was introduced in s01e26 (Volpina) and was tagged 8 times in 2023, excluding other tags such as Lila lies, Lila manipulation, Evil Lila Rossi; while tags for Chloe Redemption remained constant (3 fics each in 2017, 2021, 2022, 2023).

* credit to @miraculousbigbang and clairelutra who ran the initial ML Big Bang in 2017, and @mlbigbang who ran the subsequent 2021, 2022 and 2023 Big Bang events.

📈 This Data is a snapshot of the posted fics on Ao3 on

🖤 Acknowledgements

A huge thank you to @miabrown007 and @ryanidious for their help in providing me with information for the mlbigbang 2017!

🖤 Methodology

Sample Collection

Looking at all this quantitative data is fine, but I want to go a bit deeper (but not too deep, I don’t have time to read every single fic). A good way to get an idea on the content of a fic is through the Ao3 tagging system.

I need a way to look through the tags used over time, but this seems like too a mammoth task in Ao3 (more detail on that below the cut).

The good news is that Ao3 has a feature within collections that does that for me!

My instant thought went to the Miraculous Big Bang. It’s perfect because it is an unbiased collection (e.g. if it was a birthday gift or personal collection of recs, the fics would be tailored to the person’s tastes and preferences).

Word Clouds

Word clouds are an interesting tool to quickly look at recurring words. However, major criticisms of this method is that you can lose the context the words are used in. This is a good article to describe considerations when using a word cloud [5]. However, the nature of Ao3 tags is that the context is either inherent or are merely keywords.

Data Cleaning

Now unfortunately this word cloud needed some cleaning to remove commonly used tags. When I first did this all I got was a big image with the words Miraculous, Adrien Agreste, Ladybug, Chat Noir and Marinette Dupain-Cheng, and Miraculous Big Bang which I think you can see is not very informative.

Removed Keywords: Adrien Agreste, Adrienette, Marinette Dupain-Cheng, Ladybug, Chat Noir, Miraculous, Miraculous Big Bang

When these were removed, I put the tags into a free word cloud generator such as https://www.freewordcloudgenerator.com/generatewordcloud.

There is no natural language processing so I have hyphenated common phrases. Ao3's word cloud has already combined the common keywords and enlarged them, so I had to manually check how many times they appear to add them back. It's not exact but it works.

References

[1] Miraculous Big Bang 2017: https://archiveofourown.org/collections/miraculousbang2k17

[2] Miraculous Big Bang 2021: https://archiveofourown.org/collections/MLBB_2021

[3] Miraculous Big Bang 2022: https://archiveofourown.org/collections/MLBB_2022

[4] Miraculous Big Bang 2023: https://archiveofourown.org/collections/MLBB_2023

[5] https://www.betterevaluation.org/methods-approaches/methods/word-cloud

[brotatowho-blog]

A Preliminary Observational Study on the Effects of Species-Specific Music on Domestic Cat Behavior

Abstract: This report documents a preliminary observational study investigating the effects of species-specific music, designed by David Teie, on the behavior of a multi-cat household. The study focused on observing changes in behavior, social interactions, and overall demeanor of six domestic cats in a home environment while exposed to the aforementioned music.

Introduction: Previous research suggests that domestic cats respond differently to music designed with feline auditory preferences in mind compared to human music. This observational study aimed to further explore these effects in a natural home setting.

Methodology: Six domestic cats of varying ages and personalities were observed in their home environment. Baseline behavior was noted while regular human music was played. Subsequently, a playlist of species-specific music by David Teie was introduced. Observations focused on changes in:

* Proximity seeking: Instances of cats approaching and remaining near the observer.

* Affectionate behaviors: Purring, kneading, rubbing, and seeking physical contact.

* Relaxation indicators: Slow blinking, partially closed eyes, grooming, and changes in posture.

* Social interactions: Cat-to-cat interactions, including positive (e.g., mutual grooming) and negative (e.g., hissing, swatting) interactions.

* Unique behaviors: Notably, instances of air-licking were observed and documented.

Results:

* Increased proximity seeking: One cat, typically averse to cuddling, showed a marked increase in proximity seeking, choosing to sit near the observer for extended periods.

* Enhanced relaxation: Multiple cats exhibited signs of increased relaxation, including slow blinking, partially closed eyes, and grooming.

* Shift in affectionate behavior: One cat, typically very insistent on close physical contact with the observer’s face, became significantly calmer and less demanding.

* Observation of unique behavior: One cat exhibited repeated instances of licking the air, possibly indicating a heightened sensory experience related to the music.

* Social interaction dynamics: While the music generally promoted a calm atmosphere, a brief territorial dispute occurred between two cats, demonstrating that normal feline social dynamics still occur even in a relaxed environment.

Discussion: The preliminary findings suggest that species-specific music by David Teie has a positive influence on the behavior and overall atmosphere of a multi-cat household. The music appeared to promote relaxation, encourage social interaction (within individual cats' preferred boundaries), and potentially trigger unique sensory experiences. The observation of air-licking warrants further investigation to understand the underlying mechanisms.

Limitations: This study is limited by its observational nature, small sample size, and lack of a control group. Further research with a larger sample size, controlled conditions, and quantitative data collection methods is needed to confirm these findings and explore the long-term effects of species-specific music on cat behavior.

Conclusion: This preliminary study provides further evidence that species-specific music can have a positive impact on the well-being of domestic cats. It highlights the importance of considering the auditory world of cats and providing them with enriching auditory experiences tailored to their preferences. The findings suggest that such music could be a valuable tool for creating calmer and more harmonious environments for cats, especially in multi-cat households or stressful situations.

[website-enjoyer]

"overnight oats is gruel and gig work is peasantry" is wildly inaccurate on a material level—but communists currently living in the belly of the dying beast do need to work on the idealism of imperial core settlers who are being proletarianized, and the application of marxism to the idealism of peasants being proletarianized is a methodological precedent despite a quantitatively and qualitatively different object. both have to be studied in terms of housing and economic relationship to owned land that is being monopolized. in terms of specific policing responses capable of reliably crushing unrest. in terms of state institutions like education and healthcare being re-shaped to serve a pretty classical formation of capitalism. in terms of extremely embryonic class consciousness and class memory. in terms of pushing more reproductive labour onto the individual housewife. the decline of a single imperialist alliance with global hegemony, centred in settler colonies, is unprecedented in history. we do actually have to study it dialectically and learning from the application of the method to peasants is probably going to lead to less bad habits than any formula out of the postwar anomaly, as many useful scrap parts as there might be in that direction

[teamarcstechnologies]

7 Key Principles to Drive Success in Market Research

Market research plays a crucial role in guiding business strategies and decision-making. Here are seven key principles to ensure success in your market research efforts:

1. Define Clear Objectives

Start with well-defined goals. Understand what insights you need and how they will support your business decisions.

2. Know Your Audience

Identify and segment your target audience effectively. Tailor your research methods to align with their preferences and behaviors.

3. Choose the Right Methodology

Select the most suitable research approach, whether qualitative, quantitative, or a hybrid model, to ensure meaningful results.

4. Leverage Advanced Tools and Technology

Incorporate AI, big data, and analytics tools to enhance data accuracy and speed. Modern technology can streamline data collection and interpretation.

5. Ensure Data Quality

Prioritize data accuracy, relevance, and reliability. Scrutinize data sources and methodologies to avoid biased or incomplete insights.

6. Adhere to Ethical Standards

Respect privacy and comply with regulations like GDPR. Ethical practices build trust and credibility with your audience.

7. Translate Insights into Action

Insights are valuable only when applied. Create actionable recommendations and integrate them into your strategy to drive results.

By following these keys, businesses can elevate their market research practices and gain a competitive edge in their industry.

To know more: online market research platforms

online panel management platform

fraud detection and reporting tool

[educarecentre]

A research proposal is a critical document that outlines what you will investigate, why it matters, and how you will carry out the research. Whether you’re a student preparing for a thesis, a researcher seeking funding, or an academic planning a project, crafting a compelling research proposal is essential. This guide provides detailed insights, along with examples and templates to make the process smoother. To get started with a template, visit this link.

Structure of a Research Proposal

The exact format of a research proposal can vary across disciplines, but most include the following key components:

Title Page

Introduction

Literature Review

Research Design

Reference List

These elements collectively serve as a blueprint for your research plan, ensuring clarity, direction, and feasibility.

Purpose of a Research Proposal

A research proposal has several functions, including:

Demonstrating the relevance and originality of your research.

Highlighting your familiarity with existing studies.

Presenting a well-structured methodology.

Establishing the feasibility of your project.

As a student, you may need to write a proposal for graduate school applications or before starting your thesis or dissertation. For researchers, proposals often serve as pitches for funding or institutional approval.

Goals of a Research Proposal

1. Relevance

Convince your audience that your project is interesting, original, and significant. Highlight how your work contributes to the field.

2. Context

Showcase your understanding of the field’s current state. This includes referencing existing research, theories, and gaps your work will address.

3. Approach

Detail your methodology, tools, and procedures. Demonstrate thorough planning for data collection and analysis.

4. Achievability

Prove that your project can be completed within the given timeline and resources.

Pro Tip: Use resources like Meet2Share for templates that help structure your proposal effectively.

Components of a Research Proposal

1. Title Page

Include the following details:

Project title

Your name

Supervisor’s name

Institution and department

For longer proposals, add a table of contents and an abstract for easier navigation.

2. Introduction

This section introduces your topic and explains why it matters. Include:

Necessary background and context.

Problem statement and research questions.

The potential audience for your research (e.g., scientists, policymakers).

What gaps in knowledge your work will address.

The unique contributions of your research.

3. Literature Review

Demonstrate your grasp of the field by summarizing key theories, methods, and debates. Use this section to:

Compare and contrast existing research.

Identify gaps your research will fill.

Explain how your work builds on or challenges previous studies.

4. Research Design and Methods

Outline how you plan to achieve your objectives. This section includes:

Research Type:

Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods?

Original data collection or secondary analysis?

Population and Sample:

Who/what will you study? (e.g., New York high school students, newspaper archives).

Sampling method: probability or non-probability?

Data Collection Methods:

Surveys, interviews, experiments, etc.

Justify why these methods are suitable.

Practicalities:

Timeline and access to participants or data sources.

Address potential challenges and solutions.

5. Contribution to Knowledge

Emphasize the broader impact of your research:

Enhancing best practices.

Informing policy decisions.

Advancing theoretical frameworks.

Laying groundwork for future studies.

6. Reference List

Include all sources cited in your proposal. Use tools like citation generators to maintain accuracy and consistency.

Additional Sections

Research Schedule

Provide a timeline for each phase of your project. For instance:PhaseObjectivesDeadlineBackground ResearchRead literature, refine questions, framework20th JanuaryDesign PlanningDraft tools, finalize methods13th FebruaryData CollectionRecruit participants, conduct interviews24th MarchAnalysisAnalyze data, draft results22nd AprilWritingComplete and revise drafts17th JuneSubmissionProofread and submit28th July

Budget

If seeking funding, include a detailed budget covering:

Travel costs.

Material requirements.

Personnel (e.g., research assistants).

Templates and Examples

Starting with a clear template can streamline your process. Download a research proposal template from Meet2Share to jumpstart your project.

Example Research Proposals

Title: A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management.

Title: Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use.

Tips for Success

Use tools like Scribbr’s paraphrasing tool for clarity.

Check institutional guidelines for specific requirements.

Seek feedback from peers or supervisors before final submission.

For additional insights into research methodologies and statistical concepts, visit Meet2Share’s library of resources and tools. Find like minded students and discuss on how to effectively write a research proposal.

Crafting a research proposal may seem daunting, but with the right structure and resources, you’re well-equipped to present a strong case for your research endeavor.

[phdpioneers]

Understanding Research Methodologies and Design

Understanding Research Methodologies and DesignResearch is the cornerstone of progress in any field, from science and medicine to education and social sciences. To conduct meaningful research, one must first understand the fundamentals of research methodologies and design. These two concepts form the framework for systematic investigation and ensure the reliability and validity of results.This blog explores the essentials of research methodologies and design, offering a comprehensive guide for students, researchers, and enthusiasts.---What Is Research Methodology?Research methodology is the systematic plan for conducting research. It encompasses the tools, techniques, and procedures used to gather and analyze data, ensuring that the findings are accurate and relevant to the research question.Key components of research methodology include:1. Research PhilosophyPositivism: Focuses on observable phenomena and measurable facts.Interpretivism: Seeks to understand human behavior in its social context.Pragmatism: Combines positivism and interpretivism based on the research problem.2. Approach to ResearchDeductive Approach: Starts with a theory or hypothesis and tests it through data collection.Inductive Approach: Develops a theory based on observed patterns in the data.3. Types of ResearchQualitative: Explores experiences, concepts, and narratives. Common methods include interviews and thematic analysis.Quantitative: Measures variables numerically, often using surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.Mixed Methods: Integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches for a comprehensive understanding.---What Is Research Design?Research design is the blueprint of a study. It outlines the structure, techniques, and strategies for conducting research, ensuring the process is both effective and efficient.Key types of research design include:1. Exploratory Research DesignUsed when little is known about a problem.Methods include literature reviews, focus groups, and open-ended surveys.2. Descriptive Research DesignAims to describe characteristics or behaviors in detail.Surveys, observational studies, and case studies are common methods.3. Explanatory (Causal) Research DesignFocuses on identifying cause-and-effect relationships.Experimental designs, including randomized control trials, are widely used.4. Longitudinal vs. Cross-Sectional DesignsLongitudinal: Studies subjects over a long period to observe changes.Cross-Sectional: Collects data at a single point in time.---Steps to Create a Solid Research Design1. Define the Research ProblemStart with a clear and concise research question. For example, "What factors influence academic performance in college students?"2. Review LiteratureAnalyze existing studies to understand gaps and inform your design.3. Choose the Research MethodologyDecide whether your study will be qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods.4. Select Data Collection MethodsUse appropriate tools like surveys, interviews, experiments, or observational techniques.5. Plan Data AnalysisDecide on statistical methods or thematic approaches depending on your data type.6. Pilot the StudyConduct a small-scale trial to refine your methods.---The Importance of Ethical ConsiderationsEthics is integral to research methodologies and design. Ensure that your study respects the rights and dignity of participants by:Gaining informed consent.Ensuring confidentiality.Avoiding plagiarism and ensuring transparency in data reporting.---ConclusionMastering research methodologies and design is vital for conducting effective and credible research. By choosing the right approach, adhering to ethical practices, and meticulously planning each step, you can contribute valuable insights to your field of study.Whether you're a novice researcher or an experienced academic, understanding these concepts lays the foundation for impactful investigations. Keep learning, experimenting, and refining your approach to stay at the forefront of your discipline.

https://wa.me/919424229851/

[my-deer-friend]

If you get your PhD, what would you like to focus your research on and what would you like to do career-wise? Getting a graduate degree in history is my dream and I love hearing what other people want to do with it!

Thanks for this question! Unsurprisingly, it has been the subject of much consideration.

For the research, I'd like to combine my love for 18th century and enlightenment history with the methodologies used in digital humanities – essentially, applying more quantitative methods to the historical data we have, to uncover patterns and insights that may not be apparent in studies with a qualitative focus on a person, event, text or other narrower perspective. (I'm an excel nerd.)

If I had to choose today, the project I would do is a social network analysis of European queer figures in the second half of the 18th century. Basically, it's a process of creating a linked mindmap of people and defining the connections between them. Who knew who? Who corresponded with whom? Presuming that, like today, queer people sought out communities of like-minded folks, what does that suggest about others in their orbit? Can we redefine how, and how broadly, homosexual acts and identities were tolerated or accepted? And so on.

As for career... good question. I currently work in academia (on the administrative side) and I'd like to stay in the system. But that depends on whether I could find the right job, and if that was a good fit for what husband (also an academic) is doing at the time. But luckily that's all far enough into the future that I don't need to worry about it right now!

[design-studio-ui-ux]

 User Experience Research vs. Usability Testing: Understanding the Difference

“User experience”

“Usability”

“User experience research”

“Usability testing”

New designers often use the terms interchangeably.

That’s because all of these terms are related. But, they are not identical:

User experience (UX) research and usability testing are both critical research methodologies in digital design

But, they are conducted at different stages of the design process and they serve different purposes

Similarly, it is vital for a digital product to offer both good UX and usability

But again, UX is not usability

In this article, we’ll list the differences between these terms.

We’ll explain:

What is user experience (UX)?

What is usability?

What is UX research?

What is usability testing?

Differences between UX research vs. usability testing

What is User Experience?

User experience (UX) refers to all aspects of a user’s interaction with a digital product and the brand behind it:

How users feel about using the product

How easily users can access and use the product

How users feel when using the product – do their experiences feel meaningful or personally relevant

The range of features in the product and how well they meet user needs

The visual appeal and design quality of the product

The goal of UX design is to make a product exciting to interact with before, during, and after using the product

Since it is not easy to create comprehensive experiences that effectively meet all user needs, UX research and research-based iterations are huge parts of the UX design process.

What is Usability?

Usability is an aspect of the user’s experience (UX) that focuses on how easily users can interact with the product and accomplish specific goals.

A product’s usability is defined by its:

Learnability: How quickly users can perform basic tasks the first time they encounter the product and its interface and UX design

Efficiency: How quickly can users perform essential tasks within the product?

Memorability: How easily can users return to the product after not using it for a while?

Error-Handling: The frequency of errors users face within the product and their ability to recover from them

Usability is just one of the many components of UX - albeit a critical component.

UX covers a broader range of components that contribute to how users perceive ALL of their interactions with the product.

It even covers things like how meaningful, valuable, or personally relevant the product feels to users.

What is UX Research?

User Experience or ‘UX’ research covers various qualitative and quantitative research methods

All of these research methods aim to capture a user base’s needs and expectations regarding a product or service

UX research can be conducted at all stages of product development:

Most teams perform it in the initial concept exploration phase to gauge audience needs and expectations regarding the digital product or service they are proposing

UX research can also be conducted after product development to find ways to improve the product’s overall UX

UX research can be broadly categorized into two types: qualitative and quantitative:

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research focuses on understanding user attitudes, motivations, and experiences through methods such as:

Interviews that dive deep into users’ thoughts and feelings about a product

Focus groups where researchers explore collective user perspectives

Observational studies where researchers observe users in their natural environment to see how they interact with a product or prototype

Card sorting helps researchers understand how users naturally categorize information and navigate through digital products

Usability testing also falls under qualitative UX research as it involves evaluating how easily users can complete specific tasks within a product.

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research involves collecting numerical data that can be analyzed statistically via methods like:

Surveys and structured questionnaires that gather data from larger user bases

Tools like Google Analytics provide insights into user behavior on websites

Heatmap analyses, eye-tracking studies, click map studies, etc.

Usability Testing

Usability testing is an important user research method within the broader scope of User Experience (UX) research

It focuses on evaluating how effectively users can interact with a product to complete specific tasks

The emphasis is on understanding how users interact with the product, what confuses them, and where they experience difficulties

This process gives designers invaluable insights into user behavior

It helps designers identify areas for improvement in their work and create product designs that meet user needs more effectively

Components of Usability Testing

Usability testing involves:

Real users who are not familiar with the product

The users are recruited and asked to complete specific tasks within the product that reflect real-world scenarios

These tasks are designed to mimic how users would naturally interact with the product

Researchers observe users (either in-person or remotely) as they navigate through the product

They take note of their behaviors, frustrations, points of joy or confusion

After completing tasks, users also provide subjective feedback on their experiences in interviews

By the end of a usability test, the design team will have:

Real, observed data on how different types of users operate within the product

Anecdotal data regarding the product’s usability

After the tests, researchers review the data collected to identify the most prevalent usability issues. They use the findings to strategically refine the product’s design and maximize its usability.

Differences Between the Research Methods

By now, it is probably clear that:

UX research = a comprehensive process with a broader scope

Usability testing = a specific type of evaluation that is a part of UX research

Here are all the other major differences between the two methods:

Purpose

UX Research: To gather insights that inform design decisions and improve overall user experience

Usability Testing: To identify specific usability issues in a product and assess its effectiveness

Scope

UX Research: Interviews, surveys, and observational studies

Usability Testing: Primarily involves task-based assessments where users interact with the product  

Timing in the Design Process

UX Research: Conducted early in the design process to shape concepts and ideas

Usability Testing: Typically performed later, often on prototypes or final products, to refine specific usability-related issues

Outcome Focus

UX Research: Provides insights that shape product direction and overall user experience

Usability Testing: Identifies specific usability issues that need urgent resolution before product launch

Iterative Nature

UX Research: This can be an ongoing process throughout the product lifecycle as new features are developed

Usability Testing: Usually conducted in rounds during later stages of development to ensure usability improvements are implemented effectively

Feedback Type

UX Research: Feedback is often open-ended and exploratory

Usability Testing: Feedback is usually structured around specific tasks and scenarios

Conclusion

UX research and usability testing complement each other. Together, they help design teams create products ready to be adopted by the masses.

Here’s a recipe for maximizing your product’s chances of succeeding by integrating both methods:

Start by performing UX research at the very beginning of the project

Use methods like interviews, surveys, and observational studies to gather qualitative data about user preferences and pain points

Use all of that information to guide your design direction and to develop prototypes

Create high-fidelity (interactive) prototypes based on the UX research

Plan for usability testing once you have a prototype ready

Select participants who match your target audience and conduct usability testing

Review both qualitative feedback (user comments) and quantitative data (task completion rates to iterate on the product’s design

Make necessary adjustments to the design based on user feedback

Resolve all identified usability issues before the final product launch

After launch, conduct periodic UX research to guide future design decisions

To get the best of these two methods, find user experience research services that include usability tests. Give both methods equal importance.

[stagnate-03]

Your Guide to Success in Quantitative Research: 8 Practical Tips

Quantitative research plays a crucial role in fields like social sciences, business, healthcare, and education. It provides numerical data that can be analyzed statistically to identify patterns, relationships, and trends. However, excelling in quantitative research requires more than just crunching numbers.

1. Start with a Clear Research Question

The foundation of any successful research is a well-defined research question. This question guides the entire study, determining your methodology, data collection, and analysis. Ensure that your research question is specific, measurable, and aligned with the purpose of your study.

For example, instead of asking, "How do students perform in school?" a clearer question might be, "What is the relationship between study hours and academic performance in high school students?"

Tip: Before starting, spend time refining your question. This will save you time and effort during the research process.

2. Choose the Right Research Design

Quantitative research can take many forms, including experiments, surveys, and observational studies. Choosing the right design depends on your research objectives and the type of data you need. Are you testing a hypothesis?

Tip: Match your research design with your objectives to ensure you’re collecting the right kind of data.

3. Use Valid and Reliable Instruments

The tools you use to gather data—whether they’re questionnaires, tests, or measuring devices—must be both valid (measuring what you intend to measure) and reliable (producing consistent results over time).

Tip: If you’re developing your own instrument, pilot it first with a small group to check its validity and reliability. If using an existing tool, review past studies to confirm it works well for your research population.

4. Select an Appropriate Sample Size

A common mistake in quantitative research is working with a sample size that’s too small, which can lead to unreliable or inconclusive results. On the other hand, excessively large samples can waste resources. To avoid these pitfalls, conduct a power analysis to determine the optimal sample size for your study.

Tip: Use tools like G*Power to calculate the right sample size based on your research goals and the expected effect size. This ensures your findings are statistically significant and applicable to a larger population.

5. Ensure Random Sampling for Representativeness

Your findings will only be meaningful if your sample represents the broader population you’re studying. Random sampling ensures that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected, reducing bias and increasing the generalizability of your results.

Tip: Use random sampling methods (e.g., simple random sampling, stratified random sampling) to ensure your data is as representative as possible.

6. Minimize Bias in Data Collection

Bias can creep into any research process, affecting the accuracy and fairness of your results. To reduce bias, carefully design your data collection process. For example, avoid leading questions in surveys and standardize how data is collected across all participants to prevent interviewer or observer bias.

Tip: Blind or double-blind studies can help minimize bias, especially in experiments where participants or researchers might be influenced by expectations.

7. Analyze Data Properly with the Right Statistical Tools

Once you’ve collected your data, the next step is analysis. Choosing the right statistical tests is essential to interpret your findings correctly. Descriptive statistics (like means and frequencies) give a broad overview, while inferential statistics (like t-tests, chi-squares, or regression analyses) help determine whether your findings are statistically significant.

Tip: If you’re unsure which test to use, consult a statistician or use resources like statistical decision trees to guide your choice based on your data type and research questions.

8. Interpret Results with Context and Caution

After analyzing your data, it’s tempting to jump to conclusions. However, quantitative research is not just about the numbers; it’s about what those numbers mean in context. Always interpret your results in relation to your research question and the existing body of knowledge.

Be cautious when generalizing your findings, especially if your sample size is small or non-representative. Additionally, consider the limitations of your study—were there any confounding variables, measurement errors, or external factors that might have influenced your results?

Tip: Be transparent about the limitations of your study. Acknowledging them strengthens the credibility of your research.

Conclusion

Mastering quantitative research requires attention to detail, a solid understanding of statistical methods, and a commitment to rigor throughout the process. By following these 8 practical tips—starting with a clear question, choosing the right design, using valid instruments, selecting the appropriate sample, minimizing bias, analyzing correctly, and interpreting results carefully—you’ll be well on your way to conducting successful and impactful quantitative research.

Read more: https://stagnateresearch.com/blog/how-to-excel-in-quantitative-research-8-essential-tips-for-success/

Also read: Project Management Service Company

data processing in research services

[macncherries]

Yeah sorry I just got pissed at... A few things. I'm not young and I'm not white, and I read all of your reply to it. I originally sent it when very tired (but have taken a nap in the meantime). I apologize for throwing around the accusations. I can't excuse myself but I just wanted to apologize. Sorry

(I didn't mean "essay" literally. More slang for a long text.) (I'm still a bit pissed about some things but I can just... Leave you alone. Yay)

Under cut again.

You're okay. I'm not mad at you, i should have prefaced that in the previous post. I usually do but i forgot. I just hope you know how seriously i take my dedication to ethnically accurate character representation and anthropology. I also do not take racism accusations lightly. Especially because i make a large effort to advocate to other artists to not be Accidentally Racist due to ignorance.

You are free to leave me alone, but i also urge you to reach out via DM to me in the future. My discord is macncherries if you wish to do it there instead. I do not want you to feel uncomfortable or unsafe with my headcannons and research for valid reasons, if you have them. So far i have not received any, so given you do have actual concerns, i'll always listen.

I also have no motivation to continue this on tumblr asks. I think it's juvenile, and if you are actually not young, preferably 18+, i feel you should be able to address this maturely. Given that there are not extenuating circumstances, naturally. I also hold no motivation to publicise your responses/our conversation, if you're worried about maintaining anonymity.

Due to this, i will not be responding to anything on this via ask-box any further. Please reach out if you want to continue.

I have spoken to POC about the original posts and the consecutive ones, and i haven't received any criticism or negative commentary. Being a white person representing ethnicity with science based research and anthropology does not inherently make you racist, and i really wish i knew what was giving you that impression. Ive mentioned it already, but i am autistic, and i cannot read in between the lines. It's also the reason i took "essay" literally. I apologise. *Clarification; I'm not using that as an excuse— just wanted to shed some light on why i'm confused, if you're confused why i'm confused.

I never assumed you were white. I also cannot read that in people. Your opinion and commentary matters to be equally either way. I only feel this way in this certain scenario because i have already talked to and received input from multiple POC. Additionally from my research i have found POC who are representing the same data and conclusion that i am. Essentially, i have no reason to hold your opinion more highly than others, without any evidence to do so, and plenty of evidence to do otherwise. When people of colour have given me evidence to support my initial assessment. I hope that makes sense.

I am not mad at you, and this is not done in a harsh or berating manner. If you have valid reasoning i think you should start talking about that. I have been using evidence of both qualitative and quantitative methodology with you, but have only received vague statements in response. I obviously value POC input more when it comes to this stuff, but ultimately if you have no evidence, i have nothing to value. Having an opinion does not automatically make you correct. Again, i'm not saying that in a mean tone ^ i'm being very genuine. I want to value what you have to say. You need to at least explain somewhat evidentially, and maintain a mature communication method. I think that is necessary of everyone.

Thank you for your ask(s).