A research design is a detailed plan outlining how to conduct research, including:
1. Research question and objectives
2. Study type (experimental, survey, case study, etc.)
3. Data collection methods (questionnaires, interviews, observations, etc.)
4. Sampling strategy (population, sample size, sampling technique)
5. Data analysis procedures (statistical methods, data visualization)
6. Ethical considerations (informed consent, confidentiality, etc.)
7. Timeline and milestones
8. Budget and resources
Research designs can be:
1. Quantitative (numerical data, statistical analysis)
2. Qualitative (non-numerical data, thematic analysis)
3. Mixed-methods (combines quantitative and qualitative approaches)
Common research designs include:
1. Experimental design (randomized controlled trials)
2. Quasi-experimental design (non-randomized controlled trials)
3. Survey research design (questionnaires, interviews)
4. Case study research design (in-depth analysis of a single case)
5. Correlational research design (examines relationships between variables)
A well-structured research design ensures that the research is systematic, unbiased, and reliable, and that the results are valid and generalizable.
