Designing the Research Method

In simple terms, scientific research is a systematic investigation. In practice, however, it is not as simple as this statement implies; there are many unexpected twists and turns that will discourage and frustrate scholars. Only scholars who enjoy research will be able to overcome these obstacles and make a contribution. According to Barker et al. (2002), each research project tells a story. The story advances through various scholars. Advancement continues with its representations in the history of science and sometimes surpasses through the ages. 

Scientific research is multifaceted in terms of the objectives it pursues, the theories it generates, the methods it employs, and the institutions it is embedded within (Haig, 2018). The method is central to scientific research. Various scientific methods that are currently in use emerged in the process of acquiring knowledge about the world. As we gain knowledge, we apply and theorise methods with greater understanding and proficiency. The scientific method is a combination of the empirical method and the hypothetico-deductive method (Coolican, 2014). The word "empirical" means "through experience." The empirical method comprises two phases: the collection of data directly through experience and our external senses, with no preconceived notions regarding their ordering or explanation, and the induction of patterns and relationships within the data. The hypothetico-deductive method strongly emphasises testing hypotheses based on their predictive accuracy. The scholar tests a hypothesis or theory indirectly by deriving from it one or more observational predictions that can be subjected to direct empirical testing. If the data support the predictions, it is interpreted as a confirmation of the theory in question. If the predictions do not align with the data, the occurrence serves as evidence against the theory.

Behavioural sciences research is classified as quantitative, qualitative, or mixed based on its approach to designing the method. Studies with a quantitative approach use quantifiable measures and place heavy emphasis on the method that has been designed. According to the philosophy underlying the quantitative approach to research, a method, once designed, can not be changed. Therefore, scholars may encounter twists and turns while designing and implementing a quantitative approach-based method. The philosophy underlying the qualitative approach to research places importance on the rich text derived from the experiences of the research participants. It is flexible with respect to minor modifications in the method. Here, scholars may face twists and turns during the process of data analysis. Scholars who adopt a mixed method may be able to enjoy the punch and reap the benefits of both these approaches. The assistance of professionals with expertise in behavioural research methods may aid researchers in the same field in resolving any ambiguities that may arise during the conduct of research.