Week 1: Formulation of Research Design

Introduction:

The word ‘design’ has various meanings. But, in relation to the subject concern, it is a pattern or an outline of the research project’s workings. It is the statement of essential elements of a study that provides basic guidelines for conducting the project. It is the same as the blueprint of architect’s work. 

The research design is similar to a broad plan or model that states how the entire research project would be conducted. It is desirable that it must be in written form and must be simple and clearly stated. The real project is carried out as per the research design laid down in advance.

Definitions:

1. We can define the term as:

2. More clearly, research design can be defined as:

Contents of Research Design:

The most common aspects involved in research design include at least the followings:

1. Statement of research objectives, i.e., why the research project is to be conducted 

2. Type of data needed 

3. Definition of population and sampling procedures to be followed 

4. Time, costs, and responsibility specification

5. Methods, ways, and procedures used for the collection of data 

6. Data analysis – tools or methods used to analyze data 

7. Probable output or research outcomes and possible actions to be taken based on those outcomes

Types of Research Designs: