Research Methods

1. Research Methods Data Collection

2. Research Methods Introduction Research Methods are central to research. Methods through which we seek to meet the aims and objectives of the research. 3 perspectives on Research Methods Data collection and analysis Quantitative and qualitative research Research strategies

3. Research Methods Data Collection and Analysis Determined by the nature of the problem Collection and analysis can be closely intertwined Consider sources and methods of collection

4. Research Methods Quantitative and Qualitative Research Natural science has traditionally concentrated on ‘hard’ quantitative (positive) analysis. Subjective feelings and emotions are difficult to quantify as a consequence qualitative (anti-positive) methods have evolved to take more account of ‘soft’ personal data. A mixed approach is one option.

5. Research Methods Research Strategies Yin, R. K. (1994) Case study research: design and methods, London, Sage

6. Research Methods Links between Perspectives

7. Research Methods Collecting Secondary Data Existing literature Issues of Authentication Interpretation

8. Research Methods Collecting Primary Data Survey Based Questionnaires Interviews Observations

9. Research Methods Sampling A technique to reduce the scope of data collection. Random sampling eg selection of students as representative of that population Non random sampling eg exit polls

10. Research Methods Questionnaires and Diaries Flexible tool Fixed questions Anonymous Economical in terms of cost and time Survey a large number of people Personal or postal Postal response rate with reduce Use of a Pilot Study 20-30 minutes maximum for completion Diary - a self administering questionnaire Substitute for observation

11. Research Methods Interviews: Structured, Semi-structured and open Particularly useful for gathering qualitative data Face to face and telephone Highly structured questions are good for eliciting quantitative data Open or unstructured interviews allow access to unpredictable information

12. Research Methods Interviews: Structured, Semi-structured and open Semi-structured interviews provide a hybrid approach. Good for dealing with domain experts. Need for preparation.

13. Research Methods Standardised Scales and Tests Use of existing and verified tests Usability tests standard usability scale Sense of presence tests SOPI

14. Research Methods Observation Participant versus non-participant Qualitative versus quantitative Know what you are looking at Method of recording

15. Research Methods Observation Direct observation Be aware of the Hawthorne effect Video recording Software logging Interactive observation Wizard of Oz Verbal protocols

16. Research Methods Interacting with Participants Approach people with courtesy Identify yourself, your intent, and what you are looking for Offer to compensate participants Describe how you will use the information and why it is valuable Get permission to use the information and any photographs of video recordings that you take

17. Research Methods Interacting with Participants Keep all the information that you gather confidential Let people know that they can decline to answer questions or stop participating at any time Maintain a non judgemental, relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere Finally, ensure that all studies are approved by the University’s Ethics Committee

18. Research Methods Some examples Talk aloud protocol used during the study of virtual environments (BENOGO)

19. Research Methods Some examples Study of the Jencks Landform - Scottish Gallery of Modern Art