The Process of Research. Part 3 of 3 on Research Quality and the Research Process

Summary

This video discusses the essential aspects of conducting research, emphasizing the importance of personal interest and motivation in driving the process. It highlights the benefits of being personally invested in a topic while also warning against the potential biases it may introduce. The speaker stresses the need for realistic research goals, ensuring that the scope, resources, and timeframe align with the project. By narrowing down the research question, researchers can ensure their work is manageable and achievable within the given constraints, ultimately making the research process both effective and feasible.

Takeaways

• 😀 Research often involves a flexible, descriptive approach, where the process doesn't always follow the ideal, normative steps outlined in textbooks.
• 😀 Real-world research may require adjustments based on data collection difficulties, and sometimes methods need to be altered or even restarted.
• 😀 It is important to narrow down your research question to ensure it is feasible and can be answered within the given time and resources.
• 😀 A strong foundation in existing literature is crucial to avoid duplicating research and to help form the theoretical framework of the study.
• 😀 Personal experiences can be motivating when choosing a research topic, but they can also lead to bias, which may influence the results.
• 😀 While personal experiences may help bring passion and insight into the project, researchers should be cautious of allowing these experiences to overshadow objectivity.
• 😀 A clear and focused research question is easier to answer and manage, especially within a limited timeframe and with finite resources.
• 😀 It is important to acknowledge that research is often a process of discovery, where questions and methods evolve as new insights are gained.
• 😀 Researchers should remain realistic about the scale and complexity of their projects to avoid becoming overwhelmed or unable to complete the work.
• 😀 Being aware of bias—whether due to personal experience or preconceived notions—is essential for maintaining the integrity and reliability of the research process.
• 😀 Practical considerations like sample size, time constraints, and available funding should guide the formulation and execution of a research project.

Q & A

What is the difference between a normative account and a descriptive account in research?

A normative account is the idealized, textbook approach to research where each stage follows a clear sequence, such as reviewing literature, collecting data, and analyzing results. A descriptive account, however, reflects the more flexible, real-world nature of research, where stages may overlap or be revisited as challenges and new insights emerge.

Why is flexibility important in research?

Flexibility is crucial because real-world research often involves unexpected challenges and discoveries. Researchers may need to adjust their questions, methods, or analysis based on emerging data, which is a key aspect of the descriptive account of research.

How does the research process deviate from the idealized model described in textbooks?

In reality, research is less linear than the textbook model suggests. Researchers often revisit earlier stages, such as adjusting their research question, rethinking their methods, or analyzing data in a different way. This flexibility is necessary to address unforeseen challenges.

What are the key aspects to consider when developing a research question?

A research question should be narrow, feasible, and aligned with the resources and time available for the project. It should also be clear enough to guide the entire research process, from design to data collection and analysis.

Why is having personal experience or stake in a research project both helpful and potentially problematic?

Personal interest can motivate researchers and make them more invested in the project, leading to a deeper understanding. However, personal bias, whether positive or negative, can distort results, as personal experiences may not reflect the broader reality or may skew interpretation of the data.

What is the risk of being overly critical or overly positive in research due to personal experiences?

Being overly critical or overly positive can lead to biased findings. For example, a researcher who had a negative experience with midwives might unfairly criticize their work, while someone with a positive experience might overlook potential flaws.

How can a researcher ensure their findings are unbiased?

Researchers can reduce bias by being aware of their personal experiences and actively seeking diverse perspectives, data, and methods. They should also strive to remain objective when analyzing results and avoid allowing personal feelings or past experiences to influence their conclusions.

What role does personal motivation play in research, and how should researchers manage it?

Personal motivation can drive a researcher to engage deeply with their topic, ensuring thoroughness and passion. However, researchers should be cautious not to let personal feelings cloud their objectivity, and should focus on maintaining a balanced, critical approach throughout their work.

Why is it important for a research question to be realistic?

A realistic research question ensures that the project is achievable within the available resources, time, and scope. Unrealistic questions can lead to frustration and incomplete projects, while realistic ones ensure that the research can be completed successfully.

How does narrowing the focus of a research question benefit the researcher?

Narrowing the research question helps make the project more manageable. It ensures the scope is realistic for the time, resources, and expertise available, allowing the researcher to focus deeply on a specific aspect of the topic and avoid feeling overwhelmed.