RESEARCH DESIGNING
WHAT IS RESEARCH DESIGN?
Research design can be defined as a framework or a blueprint that is used to
conduct a research study. It involves outlining the overall approach and
methods that will be used to collect and analyse data in order to answer
research questions.
Example: A purchased land for building a house therefore for the same he will
need a map or a blueprint which will explain the details of where the bathroom
will be, where there will be the bedroom, how he wants his kitchen, what other
materials he will require for interiors etc. This whole process is called
designing.
CONTD…..
Similarly, when research is conducted different steps are followed by
using different kinds of data collection methods, sampling techniques,
etc. and hence to interpret what tools will be required in research,
what type of data will be useful, what will be the estimated time for
completion, etc. is decided in research designing.
Therefore, according to William Zikmund, Research design is defined as a
master plan specifying the methods and procedure for collecting and analysing
the needed information.
FEATURES OF GOOD RESEARCH DESIGNING:
1. Objectivity: - The research design aligns with the research objective and
effectively addresses the research question.
2. Reliability: - Data, Techniques and instruments must be reliable. (For
instance: - while researching in the legal field data collected from SCC,
MANUPATRA, etc. will be more reliable than that of [Link],
[Link] etc.)
3. Validity: - The content is valid with that of a research topic and must be
consistent in nature.
4. Sufficient Information: - The research design must have all the
information related to the research work. One should avoid missing out on the
Research question, research methods used, literature review, Introduction,
Chapterisation etc.
5. Flexibility: - The research design should be flexible and must not resist
changes. (Suppose while conducting research you felt the need to use the
observation method which was previously not included in research designing
therefore flexibility will ensure to add on the ideas as and when they arise,)
6. Lack of error: - Research design should avoid any kind of biasedness.
ELEMENTS OF RESEARCH DESIGN:
• Clear purpose: - The research question or hypothesis must be clearly defined and
focused.
• Sampling: - This includes decisions about sample size, sampling method, and criteria for
inclusion or exclusion. The approach varies for different research design types.
• Collection of Data: - This research design element involves the process of gathering data
or information from the study participants or sources. It includes decisions about what data
to collect, how to collect it, and the tools or instruments that will be used.
• Analysis of data: - All research design types require analysis and interpretation of the
data collected. This research design element includes decisions about the statistical tests
or methods that will be used to analyze the data, as well as any potential confounding
variables or biases that may need to be addressed.
• Types of research methodology: - This includes decisions about the overall
approach for the study.
• Time frame: - An important research design element is the time frame, which
includes decisions about the duration of the study, the timeline for data collection
and analysis, and follow-up periods.
• Ethical consideration: - The research design must include decisions about ethical
considerations such as informed consent, confidentiality, and participant protection.
• Resources: - A good research design takes into account decisions about the
budget, staffing, and other resources needed to carry out the study
TYPES OF RESEARCH DESIGN
There are many kinds of research design but mainly it is of the following
types apart from Quantitative and Qualitative research design.
Descriptive Research Design
• The goal of using a Descriptive Research Design is to describe a research topic, so
this type of research is useful when you need more information about your topic.
• Helps you understand the "what," "where," "when," and "how" of your research
topic.
• The one question that a Descriptive Research Design does not answer is "why."
Experimental Research Design
• Also known as Causal design which tells Cause and effect relationships.
• Useful when you want to test how different factors affect a situation, making this design type very versatile.
• In this, reasons for happening or non-happening of certain situations are covered.
Exploratory Research Design
• Topics that have been least explored or have not yet been researched.
• Helps to gather new ideas and insights.
• Useful when you don't have a clearly defined problem to study.
• This type of research design is less structured than other research design options.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the process of research design is a pivotal element in any scholarly investigation. It
serves as the blueprint for the entire research endeavour, providing structure, direction, and
coherence to the study the design of research within a legal framework is a crucial aspect of
ensuring that legal studies are conducted in a systematic, rigorous, and ethical manner.
A well-structured research design provides a roadmap for investigating legal issues, answering
research questions, and contributing to the development of legal theory and practice. It guides
researchers through the process of formulating research questions, selecting appropriate
methods, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing meaningful conclusions. By adhering to
ethical standards and maintaining rigour in their approach, legal researchers can contribute
valuable insights that inform and shape the legal landscape.
In essence, research design is the compass that guides researchers
through the complex journey of discovery. It facilitates the process of
generating insights, answering questions, and ultimately expanding
the boundaries of human understanding. As researchers continue to
push the boundaries of knowledge, a well-constructed research
design will remain an indispensable tool in their pursuit of intellectual
growth and meaningful contributions to society.