Module 5: Producing the Applied Project: Design of Study

The first thing you will tell the reader is what kind of study or project you are doing and why it is a good fit for your applied research question.  These can be broad approaches such as qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, or a specific design such as narrative.

Brief Descriptions of Study Designs:

• Qualitative: 
  These types of research methods involve describing in details specific situation using research tools like
  interviews, surveys, and Observations.
• Quantitative: 
  These types of research methods require quantifiable data involving numerical and statistical explanations.
• Correlation/Regression Analysis:
  This research method involves determining the strength of the relationship between two or more variables (e.g.
  are violent video games correlated with aggression in children).
• Quasi-Experimental: 
  This research involves the comparison of two groups, one which is influenced by an external source and
  another which is not influenced by an external force.
• Experimental: 
  Use of random assignment to place participants in two groups: an experimental group which receives
  intervention, and another control group without any intervention. It is using a positive control for you to base it
  or compare it in your result.
• Meta-Analysis: 
  This research method is useful for finding out the average impact of several different studies on a hypothesis.

Example:   The proposed study will use  a quasi-experimental design with electronic surveys administered to participants  before and then 6 months following the implementation of the new teaching program.

You can use articles or books to back up your choices  on your approach.