Main Factors in Research Design
This probably is the heart of the research. Having knowledge of what a research design is and what it does makes it easier for a researcher to reach his destination. Each of these factors seems to represent the very beat of a research.
It is imperative that before we do research: we learn research designs, we know how to use them, and we know where they fit.
1. Research Problem and Research Question
The research problem is that which you state to work on. It is the focus or that which you want to probe or shed light to. The research question is a set of questions to extract answers which explain clearly how you shall arrive at a solution to the research problem.
In making questions it is best to ask how.
2. Theoretical and Research Conceptual Frame work
As defined is a type of intermediate theory that attempt to connect to all aspects of inquiry (e.g., problem definition, purpose, literature review, methodology, data collection and analysis). It is used in research to outline possible courses of action or to present a preferred approach to an idea or thought.
For every research there must be theoretical framework from theories. It is advisable that a researcher should at least use 2 theories to explain and describe his research.
Here is a sample Framework of Social Learning theory. Social Learning Theory (SLT) is a category of learning theories which is grounded in the belief that human behavior is determined by a three-way relationship between cognitive factors, environmental influences, and behavior.
In the words of its main architect, Albert Bandura, "Social learning theory approaches the explanation of human behavior in terms of a continuous reciprocal interaction between cognitive, behavioral, and environmental determinants" (Social Learning Theory, 1977).
3. Scope Limitation and basic Assumption
Scope
The scope is the perimeter that tells a researcher what to do and what not to do. The researcher’s decision on which he does want to study is the marker for the scope.
Limitation
Limitation, on the other hand, is what limits the research. It is what the researcher can’t do. This happens when you can’t do as what the theory says. It is always better to tell the truth than to avoid it. If there’s something you can’t do, write it down. Limitations can come before or after collection of data.
Basic assumption
When making assumptions they should be according to the theories or research statistics. Basic assumptions or statistical assumptions are general assumptions about statistical populations. This is not according to the researchers view. A researcher does not generate valid conclusions from nothing.
To be able to draw interesting conclusions about real statistical populations, usually a researcher has to make some background assumptions. The researcher must be aware that inappropriate assumptions can produce unreliable and inaccurate conclusions.
4. Research Flow Chart
It is the research plan. It is diagram showing the flow of events on how a research is done from the beginning to the end. It shows the steps on how to bring the research to its conclusion.
Below is a sample of research flowchart
This set of key components in research design, to me, is the heart beat of my study. If something is wrong with my research’s study, then the love story of my research will all be wrong. The heart of my research needs operation or worst a transplant. God shall give me a new heart. ^-*
