Final Framing Reflection

This course has provided me with an understanding of the various challenges and structures scientists face in-order to conduct successful research. By analyzing and exploring the various research designs, measurement concepts, and observational methods that scientists utilize, I am now able to understand data and research reports more thoroughly.

            Quantitative methods are very important in collecting data and operationally defining variables. Investigating research methods with an empirical approach allows for a very objective view point seen through numbers and straight forward evidence. There is less interpretation of people’s behavior and more statistical analysis, which can lead to more precise and easily understood numerical results. However, I believe quantitative data lacks in telling the full story. It’s missing the interaction and experiential descriptions that qualitative research allows. Qualitative research is appealing to me because of its narrative nature and immersive experiments. Being able to discuss the various experience of a study’s participants and all the themes that arise from non-numerical analysis is simply more exciting for me as a researcher. Raw data is definitely important, but it just doesn’t excite me as much. 

            In terms of learning points that I will take with me from the course, I have multiple. First, my intentions with my research need to be thoroughly analyzed. Once I have a research question I’ve learned that I need to really define my goals for answering the question or else I can get lost along the way. Second, a very structured research design will make the research go smoothly. I don’t want to find myself scrambling in the middle of my experiment because my design hasn’t been fleshed-out fully. Finally, I’ve learned that the right questions are more important than the quantity of questions. The survey I conducted was initially too long and I had to cut-out some of the questions. I quickly realized I didn’t need those questions as long as I adjusted others and made sure the most relevant questions were being asked. One question can cover the territory of three questions if it is simply well-conceived. 

            Overall, I found the course helpful in developing my critical thinking. I can take with me the lessons I’ve learned and mistakes I’ve made trying to conduct successful research. It is my hope that this will make me a stronger and more thoughtful researcher in the future.