Major Phases of a Research Process

MAJOR PHASES OF A RESEARCH PROCESS The research process includes both scientific and technical steps (Swansburg & Swansburg, 1999). It is written in a problem-solving format. Unlike a scientific problem-solving method, which has only six steps (1. define the problem; 2. collect data; 3. formulate the hypothesis; 4. select a method to test the hypothesis; 5. test hypothesis; and 6. formulate a conclusion and evaluate the hypothesis), the true research process can have as much as 18 steps (Nieswiadomy, 2008, Polit & Beck, 2004). Inductive reasoning proceeds from the specific observations to the general, broader generalizations and theories. Theory development represents this type of reasoning in which different concepts are joined to make a whole. The 18 Major Steps of Quantitative Research STEP NO.

NIESWIADOMY (2008) Identify the problem.

1

2 3

Determine the purpose of the study. Review the literature. Develop a theoretical/conceptual framework.

4 5

Identify the study assumptions. Acknowledge the limitations of the study.

6 7 8 9

Formulate the hypothesis or research questions. Define the study variables/terms. Select the research design. Identify the population.

10 Select the sample. 11 12 13

Conduct a pilot study. Collect data.

POLIT & BECK (2004) Phase I: The Conceptual Phase Formulating and delimiting the problem Reviewing the related literature Undertaking fieldwork  Defining the framework and developing conceptual definitions Formulating the hypothesis Phase II: The Design and Planning Phase Selecting a research design Developing protocols Identifying the population to be studied Designing the sampling plan Specifying the method to measure the research variables Developing methods for safeguarding human/animal rights Finalizing and reviewing the research plan Phase III: The Empirical

14

Organize the data for analysis. Analyze the data.

15 16

Interpret the findings. Communicate the findings.

17 18

Utilize the findings.

Phase Collecting data Preparing the data for analysis Phase IV: The Analytic Phase Analyzing the data Interpreting the results Phase V: The Dissemination Phase Communicating the findings Utilizing the findings in practice

For beginners, the huge number of steps can be overwhelming, but the detailing of  the research process into 18 steps has a major advantage, that of specificity, which favor easy understanding of every step. Reference: Dr. RPS Introduction to Research in Health Sciences; p.27, 28 