Methodology

The research is conducted through structured guidelines where a study begins with determining the research problem, objectives, conceptual framework, research question and hypotheses. Then, establishing research methodology and procedures for conducting a research, selecting data collection techniques, discussion about the results of data analysis and finally drawing a conclusion. 

Correlation research is a type of descriptive research (describe an existing condition) determine whether, and to what degree, a relationship exists between two or more quantifiable variables. Correlation is a measure of the linear relationship between variables. The purpose of this method is to clarify our understanding of important phenomena/event by identifying relationships among variables. We use correlational method when we want to determine the extent to which the variables are related and when there is no attempt to manipulate the variables. Remember, correlation does not imply causation.

Experimental research is a type of quantitative research design that involves manipulating one or more independent variables to determine their effect on one or more dependent variables. This methodology is to determine the presence of cause-and-effect relationships between the independent and dependent variable (s). 

• Involve manipulation of the IV – the cause

• Involve the measurement of the DV – the effect

• Presence of a control group: Provides a baseline measure of the DV against which the values of the DV can be compared. The confident with which a casual relationship can be identified is strongest if there is a control condition.

• Experimental group: The research participants are randomly assigned to each of the conditions in the experiment in order to ensure that the conditions are equal to each other before the experiment begins. Random assignment provides the necessary condition for  making causal inferences about the effect of IV on DV.

Survey research is a type of descriptive research that involves collecting data to test hypotheses or to answer questions about people’s opinions on some topic or issue. Creswell (2007) states that it provides a quantitative or numeric description of trends, attitudes, preferences, demographics, practices, procedures or opinions of a population by studying a sample of that population. The researcher

generalizes or makes claims about the population from the sample results. The participants in this methodology is large and dispersed group of people. Survey research design consist of two types:

1. Cross-sectional survey

• collecting data from selected individuals at a single point in time

• single, stand-alone study

• effective for providing a snapshot of the current behaviors, attitudes and beliefs in a population

• providing data relatively quickly 

• Limitation: does not provide a broad enough perspective to inform decisions about changes in processes and systems reliably 

• entire population – census survey

2. Longitudinal survey 

• collecting data from the same subjects repeatedly over an extended period of time

• allows researchers to track changes and developments over time, providing insights into long-term trends, causal relationships, and the dynamics of various phenomena.

• The same set of questions or measurements are typically used at each data collection point to ensure consistency.

• Tracking Changes: It allows researchers to observe changes within individuals or groups over time, making it possible to identify patterns and long-term effects.

The Instrument in Quantitative Research:

1. Surveys & Questionnaire

• Likert Scales

• Closed-ended Questions

2. Standardized Test