by Minor Magical

Created on: February 27, 2010

Methods of conducting research

If you are about to venture into the unknown, you need to equip yourself with the knowledge that will lead you to formulating dependable solutions when the unexpected arises, as it is bound to. This is the domain of scientific research. An effective research should; identify a problem and its causes, design solutions to the problem and stipulate an action plan.

There are many ways of conducting a research. The method that one prefers to apply should be informed by the nature of the problem and the results expected from the process. However, choice is not the only determinant. Scarce resources can be a limiting factor capable of hindering success.

Below is a list of at least five methods of research, each is considered independent of the other but on the same breadth, all of them can be used together in a concerted manner to achieve an end.

1. INTERVIEWING

This is also known as the open ended method. It involves extracting information from those who know, by asking questions. The answers given are not limited by a simple yes or no. Interviews are applied in cases where the subject (interviewee) is more familiar with a situation than any other source. For instance, a corporation might prefer to apply this method if it is entering an unfamiliar territory. Here, they may interview the natives because they are the ones targeted by the new business. The data collected can be stored on paper, that is, if the questions asked require written answers. A tape recorder can come in handy if the interview is conducted by word of mouth.

2. BRAINSTORMING:

This is commonly referred to as group discussions; it is mainly used when the information to be gathered is not a preserve of any one individual. In other words no one knows absolutely. Each person in the group contributes what they know and the researcher evaluates the subject. Eventually the data gathered is closer to the truth than when only one person is evaluated. Brainstorming is mostly used when the purpose of the research is to structure solutions to a problem.

3. FACT FINDING MISSIONS:

This calls on the researcher to be where the problem is and gather first hand information thorough observation. It requires excellent analytical skills. A report has to be compiled in the process and it should give an account of the problem identification and the intended course of action. But the method is subject to abuse because the researcher might be inclined to making biased judgments in order to suit his/her position.

4. NECESSARY INTRUSION

It is a very popular method of research in this computer age. It involves bombarding the subjects with questions through SMS, emails and other similar media. In return there is the promise of a reward. It is effective because if reaches a wide group of people with a higher response rate, but as the name suggests, it is intrusive and can be viewed in bad faith by some.

5. MIX THEM GATHER:

This refers to mobilizing people from different backgrounds, from far and wide in order to share information. Popular ways of doing this include holding community seminars, road shows and theatre shows. It can be very effective because entertainment is a sure way of getting people to talk. However if is very costly and people tend to shun it because of the cost element.

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