Research Methodology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 4

Research Methodology - Essay Example 75). Descriptive research explores and describes phenomena based on real-life situations. It helps provide new information about a topic which has not been completely explored. It describes concepts and relationships and provides more data from which more quantitative research can be conceptualized (Punch & Punch, 2005, p. 75). Correlational research on the other hand examines the relationship between two of more variables and determines if the relationship is negative or positive. A positive correlation means that the variables vary together and they either increase or decrease together; for negative correlation, variables vary in opposite directions or have an inverse relationship (Punch & Punch, 2005, p. 75). Quasi-experimental researches seek to determine the cause and effect relationships of independent and dependent variables. A treatment is usually implemented in this research and the effects are reviewed using selected methods of measurement (Trochim, 2006). Finally, experime ntal research is the type of research which helps to establish cause and effect of phenomenon (Davis, 1997). The causality between variables is tested here under highly controlled conditions. The quantitative research has its strengths and weaknesses. It is advantageous because its methods are quantifiable, reliable, and applicable to a larger population (Weinreich, 2006). It also states the problem in specific terms and clearly specifies the independent and dependent variables being reviewed (Weinreich, 2006). It also follows the original research goals and comes up with objective conclusions and results, thereby ensuring reliability of data from controlled observations and mass surveys. Quantitative research also eliminates and minimizes the subjectivity of judgments. Finally, it allows for a longitudinal assessment on the ensuing performance of subjects (Matveey,