Question

1. Identify and describe three major research methods. For each, identify a strength and a weakness. Give a specific example of each.

Answer 1

There may be different different methods of conducting researches. Following are the three main methods of conducting research in a field-

1. Experiments- Various experiments are done in order to research something. In this method, we first identify the variables which have impact on certain phenomenon. After this identification process we keep on changing one variable and measure other variable.

We study the relation among different different variables. Controlled experiments are also conducted in order to analyze the changes taking place in ideal conditions. Biggest strength of this method is that we can determine the relationship of causes and effects.

The biggest of weakness of this method is that it requires huge number of controls for getting suitable and reliable results. A generalized picture can not be obtained through simple experiments. Specific preparations are required for getting suitable and appropriate results.

2. Descriptive research- Through these types of researches, one tries to explain the phenomenon which is going out in his/her surroundings. Various case studies are good example of such descriptive research methods.

Here interaction with people becomes an important part of research. Observation of different different activities are also an integral part of such research methods. Surveys also fall under the category of descriptive research.

The biggest strength of this research method is that it provides qualitative perspective of data. It may also provide additional information for which we were not cautious initially. Weakness of this research method is that cause and effect relationship can not be determined through this research methodology.

3. Correlational research- In this research method, we basically try to establish relation between two different variables. Here the greater correlation stands for greater accuracy in results. If there is greater correlation among different different variables then greater prediction can also be made.

Biggest strength of this research method is that it helps in better understanding of working of nature. The biggest disadvantage of this research method is that factor of certainty remains missing here. We can determine the relation but we can not predict anything with surety and certainty.