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Describe the primary goal of scientific research.
Scientific research is designed to make descriptive or explanatory inferences on the
basis of empirical information about the world (King et al., 1994). In other words,
scientific research is a methodology to find the best explanation for observed
phenomena based on the available data and extend, refine, and correct that
explanation based on new information. Its goal is to create an ever-increasing body
of knowledge about which there are verifiable facts and a consensus.
Explain the crucial differences between the experimental, statistical, and
comparative method
According to Lijphart (1971), the experimental method uses two equivalent groups,
one of which (the experimental group) is exposed to a stimulus while the other (the
control group) is not. The two groups are then compared, and any difference can be
attributed to the stimulus. On the other hand, the statistical method entails numerical
or mathematical stimulation of empirically observed data in order to discover
controlled relationships among variables. The statistical method is used more often
in political science but requires mathematical manipulation of quantitative data over a
large number of cases. The comparative method resembles the statistical method in
all respects except that the number of cases it deals with is too small to permit
systematic control by means of partial correlations. The comparative method seeks
insight through the evaluation and analysis of two or more cases.
What is the “logic of inference”? Why do King, Keohane, Verba, and Keohane
spend time discussing this logic?
The logical inference is the process used in natural deduction to deduce the validity
of statement forms from other statement forms by the use of given sets of logical
formulae. Similar to a hypothesis, a logic of inference is an informed guess about
science or scientific relationships. Inferences are based on real, observed evidence
but are still just guesses about the true relationship that exists. I think King,
Keohane, Verba, and Keohane spend time discussing this logic inference because of
its significant role in predicting outcomes, therefore guiding researchers on what type
of data or relationship they should focus on.
Explain the major components of research design
Research design illustrates what, where, how much, when, and steps of a study
undertaken. King et al. (1994) have divided the research design into four
components: the research question, the theory, the data, and the use of the data. A
research question is an inquiry or question that a study strives to answer by
collecting and analyzing data. On the other hand, theories are formulated to explain,
predict, and understand the phenomena under study. Most scientific studies have a
theoretical framework that outlines the key concepts in the research and proposes
relations between them. Lastly, research data is any information that has been
collected, observed, generated, or created to validate original research findings.
What plays the "leading role" in determining which research design is
appropriate for your project?
The type of research problem an organization is facing or the problem that one
intends to address is one of the key determinants of research design. This is
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because the research problem has a critical influence on the type of research
methodology one chooses, the types of data, and data analysis.
How do research design decisions determine the potential impact of research
projects?
The research design decision determines the potential impact of a research project
by influencing the settings of the research study, measurement of analysis, and the
techniques implemented for the collection and analysis of data. An appropriate
research design sets a study up for success.
References
King, G., Keohane, R. O., & Verba, S. (1994). Designing social inquiry. Princeton
university press.
Lijphart, A. (1971). Comparative politics and the comparative method. American
political science review, 65(3), 682-693.
