Dissertation Research Methods: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Up Your Research In The Social Sciences

Cover
Half Title
Title Page
Copyright Page
Dedication
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
Acknowledgments
1 Planning Your Dissertation
Objectives
Dissertation Process
Preparing
Planning
Performing
Presenting
Engaging in Writing
Using First Person
Choosing a Topic
Summary
References
2 Conducting a Literature Review and Developing a Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
Objectives
Conducting a Literature Review
Perfecting Your Research Skills
Being an Active Research Consumer
Being a Good Critic of Research
Conceptual Article: Component
Empirical Research Article: Components
Being a Communicator of Research
Building Your Knowledge
Exploring Trends in the Literature
Comparing Discoveries in the Literature
Building Arguments
Contributing to Knowledge
Chronological Presentation of a Literature Review
Thematic Presentation of a Literature Review
Conceptual Presentation of a Literature Review
Methodological Presentation of a Literature Review
Searching for Relevant Literature
Deciding On the Kinds of Literature to Review
Deciding On Where to Find Relevant Literature
Determining Literature Search Strategies
Determining Literature Extraction Criteria
Searching for Relevant Literature
Managing Your Search Outcomes
Selecting Relevant Literature
Extracting Relevant Information
Developing an Annotated Bibliography
Creating a Literature Characteristics Matrix
Creating a Literature Matrix Based On Themes
Other Innovative Strategies
Writing About Your Selected Literature
Understanding the Conceptual/Theoretical Framework
Exploring the Goal of Conducting Research
Developing and Writing a Conceptual/Theoretical Framework
Identify Theories Or Models Related to Your Topic
Examine the Characteristics of the Selected Model Or Theory
Determine the Use of the Selected Model Or Theory
Writing About the Conceptual/Theoretical Framework
Develop an Illustration
Summary
References
3 Understanding the Types of Dissertation Research
Objectives
About Dissertation Research
Types of Dissertation Research
Traditional Research
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Five
Action Research
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Program Evaluation
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Summary
References
4 Choosing an Appropriate Research Methodology
Objectives
About Research Methodology
Exploring Quantitative Research Methods
When Do We Use Quantitative Methods?
Types of Quantitative Methods
Descriptive Method
Common Statistical Tests Used With Descriptive Research Designs
Correlational Method
Common Statistical Tests Used With Correlation Research Designs
Causal-Comparative Method
Common Statistical Tests Used With Causal-Comparative Research Designs
Experimental Method
Pre-Experimental Designs
Pre-test/Post-test Experimental Designs
The Static Group Comparison Design
Common Statistical Tests Used With Experimental Research Designs
Quasi-Experimental Method
Common Quasi-Experimental Method: Non-Equivalent Control Group Design.
Common Statistical Tests Used With Quasi-Experimental Research Designs
Exploring Qualitative Research Methods
Case Study Approach
Ethnographic Approach
Grounded Theory Approach
Narrative Approach
Phenomenological Approach
Transcendental Phenomenological Approach
Interpretative Phenomenological Approach
Innovative Qualitative Approaches
Exploring Mixed Methods Designs
Sequential Mixed Methods Design
Sequential Exploratory Mixed Methods Design
Sequential Explanatory Mixed Methods Design
Sequential Transformative Mixed Methods Design
Concurrent Mixed Methods Design
Mixed Methods Design Characteristics
Timing
Theoretical Lens
Integration
Purpose
Priority
Determining the Right Research Method
Writing About Your Selected Research Method
Summary
References
5 Understanding the Seven Types of Research Gaps
Objectives
Introduction
Theoretical Foundation and Development
The Seven Research Gaps From Most Common to Least Common
Population Gap
Characteristics
Empirical Gap
Characteristics
Methodological Gap
Characteristics
Knowledge Gap
Characteristics
Theoretical Gap
Characteristics
Evidence Gap
Characteristics
Practical-Knowledge Gap
Characteristics
Writing Up the Research Gaps in a Research Proposal
Summary
Summary of Key Points in the Chapter
References
6 Developing the Research Problem
Objective
Introduction
Problem Statement: Definition and Meaning
Trouble With the Problem Statement: Ask Two Questions
Writing Up the Problem Statement
Directions
The Example in Paragraph Form
Advantages of Using the Statement Grid
Summary
References
7 Developing the Purpose Statement
Objective
Introduction
Purpose Statement: Definition and Meaning
Purpose Statements Based On the Research Methodology
Development of the Purpose Statement for Quantitative Studies
Development of the Purpose Statement for Qualitative Studies
The Most Powerful Purpose Statement Verbs
Writing Up the Purpose Statement
Directions
Summary
References
8 Developing the Research Statement and Research Questions
Objective
Introduction
Research Questions: Definition and Meaning
Developing Research Questions for a Quantitative Study
Descriptive Research Questions
Inferential Research Questions
Using the Theoretical Constructs in the Instrument as a Basis for Developing Quantitative Research Questions
Using a Researcher-Designed Instrument and Developing Research Questions
Using an Established Instrument and Developing Research Questions
Writing Up the Research Statement and Research Questions
Directions
Developing Research Questions for a Qualitative Study
Using the Theoretical Framework as a Basis for Developing Qualitative Research Questions
Summary
References
9 Research Alignment: Achieving Research Alignment in the Study
Objective
Introduction
Research Alignment: Definition and Meaning
The Importance of Alignment
The Rules of Alignment in a Study
Developing Alignment in a Research Study
Phase 1: Writing Up the Problem Statement
Phase 2: Writing Up the Purpose Statement
Phase 3: Writing Up the Research Statement
Introducing the Alignment Matrix: Achieving Alignment in the Dissertation
Summary
References
10 Understanding Limitations and Delimitations
Objective
Introduction
Definition of Limitations
Definition of Delimitations
Summary
References
11 Understanding Assumptions and How to Write Them in a Study
Objective
Introduction
Definition of Assumptions
Making Assumptions in the Study
Researchers Must Justify Their Assumptions
Assumptions Are the Starting Point for the Investigation
Assumptions Clarify Aspects of the Study
Assumptions in Qualitative Research
General Types of Assumptions
Participant Bias and Assumptions
Summary
References
12 Understanding the Differences Between Contributions and the Significance of a Study
Objective
Introduction
Contributions: What Are They and Why Are They Important?
Conceptual/Theoretical Contributions
Empirical Contributions
Methodological Contributions
Other Research Contributions
Significance: What Is It and Why Is It Important?
Theoretical Significance
Practical Significance
Research Significance
Summary
References
13 Deciding On the Source of Data
Objectives
About Data
Data Sources
Determining an Appropriate Data and Its Source
Determining Your Sample Size
Determining an Appropriate Sample Size for Your Qualitative Study
Determining an Appropriate Sample Size for Your Quantitative Study
Demonstration On How to Use G*Power Software
Ethical Issues
Respect for Persons
Beneficence
Justice
Summary
References
14 Understanding the Different Kinds of Data Collection Strategies
Objectives
Introduction
Testing Method
Methods of Data Collection
Quantitative Data Collection Methods
Surveys and Questionnaires
Quantitative Observations
Quantitative Interviews
Quantitative Focus Groups
Qualitative Data Collection Methods
Interviews
Focus Group Discussions
Document Collection
Observation
How to Choose an Appropriate Data Collection Strategy
Summary
References
15 Planning and Implementing the Data Collection Process
Objectives
Introduction
Developing the Plan for Research
Define the Research Problem
Define the Research Objective
Determine the Dissertation Research Model/Design Approach
Quantitative Research Model
Qualitative Research Model
Mixed Methods Research Model
Determine the Research Method Approach
Quantitative Research Vs. Qualitative Research
Choosing Between Quantitative and Qualitative Research Approaches
Determine the Research Design Approach: Quantitative Designs
Descriptive Design
Correlation Design
Causal-Comparative Design
Experimental Design
Determine the Research Design Approach: Qualitative Designs
Phenomenological Research Design
Grounded Theory Research Design
Ethnography Research Design
Narrative Inquiry Research Design
Case Study Research Design
Determine the Data Need/Type
Types of Data
Quantitative Data Types in Research
Qualitative Data Types in Research
Determining the Population and Sampling Methods in Quantitative Research
Step 1. Defining and Choosing the Population
Step 2. Drawing the Sample From the Population
Determining the Population and Sampling Methods in Qualitative Research
Step 1. Defining and Choosing the Population
Step 2. Drawing the Sample From the Population
Data Collection Preparation
Data Collection Preparation Under a Quantitative Study
Data Collection Preparation Under a Qualitative Study
Preparing the Consent Form
Ethical Issues Related to Data Collection
Implementing Data Collection
Participants’ Recruitment
Ensuring the Eligibility of Potential Participants
Completing Informed Consent
Participating in the Study
Storing Collected Data
Writing About the Data Collection Process
Summary
References
16 Understanding Populations and Sampling
Objectives
Introduction
Population, Sampling and Definitions
Reasons for Sampling
Advantages and Benefits of Sampling
The Sampling Process
Types of Sampling
Probability Sampling
Quantitative Sampling Methodology
Quantitative Sampling Designs for Research
Simple Random Sampling
Systematic Random Sampling
Stratified Sampling
Cluster Sampling
Multi-Stage Sampling
How to Avoid Sampling Bias
Non-probability Sampling
Qualitative Sampling Methodology
Qualitative Sampling Designs for Research
Convenience Sampling
Purposive Sampling
Judgment Sampling
Quota Sampling
Snowball Sampling
Theoretical Sampling
Determining Sampling Size in Non-Probability Research
Summary
References
17 Planning and Implementing the Data Analysis Process
Objectives
Introduction
Quantitative Data Analysis
Determining an Appropriate Data Analysis Technique in Quantitative Research
Cleaning the Data
Treatment of Missing Responses
Substitute a Neutral Value
Coding and Categorizing the Data
Transcribing the Data and Creating a Data File
Developing a Transcribed Data File
Using the Software to Analyze the Data File
Choosing a Data Analytic Approach
Descriptive Design
Correlational Design
Causal-Comparative Design
Experimental Design
Quasi-Experimental Design
Choose Your Statistical Analyses Design
Descriptive Statistics
Measures of Central Tendency
Measures of Variability
Primary Scales of Measurement
Inferential Statistics
Selecting the Appropriate Statistical Test
Parametric Test
Nonparametric Test
Conducting the Data Analysis
Classification of Statistical Techniques
Univariate Statistical Techniques
Bivariate Statistical Techniques
Multivariate Statistical Techniques
Multiple Linear Regression
Logistic Regression
Multiple Analysis of Variance (MANOVA)
Multiple Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA)
Discriminant Analysis
Conjoint Analysis
Cluster Analysis
Factor Analysis
Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)
Types of Quantitative Data Analysis Used in Dissertation Research
Descriptive Analysis
Inferential Analysis
Differences Analysis
Associative Analysis
Predictive Analysis
Reliability in Quantitative Data Analysis
Validity in Quantitative Data Analysis
Review the Results of the Data Analysis
Qualitative Data Analysis
Data Analysis Process
Types of Qualitative Analysis
Thematic Analysis
Content Analysis
Grounded Theory Analysis
Narrative Analysis
How to Determine the Right Type of Qualitative Analysis
Ensuring the Credibility of Your Qualitative Findings
Summary
References
18 Ensuring Quality in the Study
Objectives
Introduction
Reliability and Validity in a Quantitative Study
Developing Reliability in a Quantitative Study
Types of Reliability
Three Principles of Reliability
Internal Consistency of Measures of Reliability
Inter-item Consistency Reliability
Split-Half Reliability
Coefficient Alpha Reliability
Other Measurements of Reliability
Inter-observer Reliability
Item Analysis
Alternative-forms Reliability
Measurement and Calculating Reliability
Criteria for Good Measurement
Measurement and Scaling
Scaling
Rules of Measurement
Scaling: Primary Scales of Measurement
Scales of Measurement
Nominal Scale
Ordinal Scale
Interval Scale
Ratio Scale
Other Scaling Types and Rating Scales
Dichotomous Scale
Itemized Rating Scale
Likert Scale
Numerical Scales
Semantic Differential Scale
Stapel Scale
Threats to Reliability
Participant Error
Participant Bias
Researcher Error
Researcher Bias
Developing Validity in a Quantitative Study
Validity Vs. Reliability
Types of Validity
Testing the Goodness of Measures
Assessing Validity
Content Validity
Criterion-related Validity
Construct Validity
Nomological Validity
Face Validity
Threats to Validity
Selection Biases
Mortality
History
Maturation
Instrumentation
Testing
Ensuring Trustworthiness in a Qualitative Study
Credibility
Transparency
Member Checking
Triangulation
Transferability
Confirmability
Dependability
Ensuring Quality in a Mixed Methods Study
Summary
References
19 Writing Your Dissertation: The Standard Format – Chapter 1 (Introduction)
Objective
Introduction and Background of the Problem
Main Points and Directions
Overview of Chapter
The Research Problem and the Problem Statement
Main Points and Directions
The Purpose Statement
Main Key Points and Directions
Research Statement and Research Questions
Research Questions
Main Key Points and Directions
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
Main Key Points and Directions
Assumptions, Limitations and Delimitations
Main Key Points and Directions
Limitations
Delimitations/Scope of the Study
Assumptions
General Types of Assumptions
Significance of the Study
Main Key Points and Directions
Summary
References
20 Writing Your Dissertation: The Standard Format – Chapter 2 (Literature Review)
Objective
Introduction and Overview
Main Points and Directions
Literature Search and Selection
Main Points and Directions
Conceptual/Theoretical Framework
Main Points and Directions
Review of the Literature
Main Points and Directions
Summary
References
21 Writing Your Dissertation: The Standard Format – Chapter 3 (Research Methodology)
Objective
Introduction and Overview
Main Points and Directions
Problem Statement
Main Points and Directions
Purpose Statement
Main Points and Directions
Research Statement and Research Questions
Main Points and Directions
Research Alignment: Definition and Meaning
Research Methodology
Main Points and Directions
Research Design
Main Points and Directions
Population, Sample and Sampling Technique
Main Points and Directions
Instrumentation
Main Points and Directions
Data Collection (Procedure)
Main Points and Directions for Quantitative Data Collection
Main Points and Directions for Qualitative Data Collection
Data Analysis (Quantitative)
Main Points and Directions for Quantitative Data Analysis Procedures
Quantitative Analysis Steps
Data Analysis (Qualitative)
Main Points and Directions for Qualitative Data Analysis Procedures
Qualitative Analysis Steps
Reliability
Main Points and Directions for Quantitative Reliability
Main Points and Directions for Qualitative Reliability
Validity
Main Points and Directions for Quantitative Validity
Main Points and Directions for Qualitative Validity
Ethical Issues and Research Process
Main Points and Directions
Assumptions, Limitations and Delimitations
Main Points and Directions
Summary
References
22 Writing Your Dissertation: The Standard Format – Chapter 4 (Data Analysis and Findings)
Objectives
Presenting Results in Quantitative Research
Introduction
How to Present Results in Quantitative Research
Descriptive Statistics: Univariate Statistics – Presenting Results
Descriptive Statistics Results
Presenting and Writing Up Descriptive Results
Presenting and Writing Up Crosstab Results
Presenting and Writing Up Histogram Results
Presenting and Writing Up Mean and Standard Deviation Results
Bivariate Statistical Techniques
Presenting and Writing Up Pearson Correlation Results
Presenting and Writing Up Simple Linear Regression Results
Presenting and Writing Up Scatterplot Results
Inferential Statistics: Multivariate Statistics
Inferential Statistics Results
Multivariate Statistical Techniques
Presenting and Writing Up Exploratory Factory Analysis Results
Presenting and Writing Up Confirmatory Factor Analysis Results
Presenting and Writing Up Path Analysis Model Results
Presenting Results in Qualitative Research
Introduction
Overview
Research Setting
Participants’ Demographics
Data Analysis Process
Presenting the Data Analysis Process in Qualitative Research
Presentation of the Findings
Presenting the Findings in Qualitative Research
“Summary” Section
Summary
References
23 Writing Your Dissertation: The Standard Format – Chapter 5 (Discussion and Conclusions)
Objective
Introduction and Overview
Main Points and Directions
Summary of Findings and Conclusions
Main Points and Directions
Interpretation of the Findings
Main Points and Directions
Review the Data Analysis Results
Interpretation of Findings From Results
Synthesis of the Findings
Implications and Applications of the Findings
Main Points and Directions
Theoretical Implications
Practical Implications
Strengths and Weaknesses
Limitations
Main Points and Directions
Recommendations for Future Research
Main Points and Directions
Summary
References
Index