GCU Justification for Quantitative or Qualitative Methodology Discussion
ANSWER
Title: Choosing the Right Methodology for Dissertation Research
Introduction
Selecting the appropriate research methodology for a dissertation is a critical decision that shapes the entire research process. This paper aims to provide a rationale for selecting either a quantitative or qualitative methodology for my potential dissertation research. To accomplish this, I will first refine my potential dissertation topic, formulate a problem statement, and then present a literature-based argument for my chosen methodology while explaining why the alternative method is not suitable for my study.
Refined Dissertation Topic
My potential dissertation topic centers around examining the impact of online education on student engagement and learning outcomes in higher education institutions.
Problem Statement
“The increasing prevalence of online education has raised concerns about its effectiveness in promoting student engagement and improving learning outcomes. This study seeks to explore the relationship between online education and student engagement and assess its influence on learning outcomes in higher education.”
Quantitative Methodology Justification
The choice of a quantitative methodology is warranted for several reasons:
- Measurability: The problem statement involves examining the relationship between online education, student engagement, and learning outcomes. Quantitative research allows for the precise measurement of variables and the establishment of correlations and causality.
- Generalizability: Quantitative research enables the collection of data from a larger sample, providing the opportunity to generalize findings to a broader population. Given the widespread adoption of online education, a quantitative approach allows for insights that can be applied to a wider range of higher education institutions.
- Objective Data: The study aims to assess the impact of online education objectively. Quantitative data collection methods, such as surveys and standardized test scores, provide empirical evidence that supports the findings and conclusions.
- Statistical Analysis: Quantitative research allows for statistical analyses that can reveal significant patterns and trends in the data. This is particularly important when examining the complex relationship between online education, engagement, and learning outcomes.
Qualitative Methodology Rejection
While qualitative research has its merits, it is not suitable for this study for the following reasons:
- Limited Generalizability: Qualitative research often involves smaller sample sizes and in-depth exploration of specific cases. Given the desire to make broader statements about the impact of online education, a quantitative approach is more appropriate.
- Subjectivity: Qualitative research relies on subjective interpretations and narratives, which may introduce bias into the study. In contrast, quantitative research allows for a more objective assessment of the relationship between variables.
- Complexity of Variables: The study’s focus on student engagement and learning outcomes involves multiple variables that are better suited to quantitative analysis. Qualitative research may not adequately capture the complexity of these relationships.
- Scope: Qualitative research often requires a longer time frame for data collection and analysis. Given the constraints of a doctoral dissertation, a quantitative methodology is more feasible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice of methodology for a dissertation is a crucial decision that must align with the research problem and objectives. In my case, the quantitative methodology is the most appropriate choice for investigating the impact of online education on student engagement and learning outcomes in higher education. It offers the advantages of measurability, generalizability, objectivity, and statistical analysis, which are essential for addressing the research questions effectively. On the other hand, qualitative methodology is not suitable due to its limitations in terms of generalizability, subjectivity, complexity, and time constraints. By making an informed choice based on the nature of the research problem and the existing literature, I aim to conduct a robust and meaningful dissertation study.
QUESTION
Description
Upon completion of this course, you will have a window of time in which you must declare whether you intend to pursue your dissertation research using a quantitative or qualitative methodology. Consider the work you have done in this course and previous courses in which you explored your potential dissertation topic through both quantitative and qualitative lenses.
In this assignment, you will choose to conduct your potential dissertation research using either a quantitative or qualitative methodology. You will justify your choice of methodology based on the problem statement and supported by the extant literature and the nature of the research questions.
General Requirements
Use the following information to ensure successful completion of the assignment:
Refer to the discussions in which you have engaged to date in the forums in this course as well as your assignments submitted in Topics 2 and 5 and any feedback from faculty and peers.
Refer to the dissertation topic you have been developing in your previous research courses as well as any feedback from faculty and peers.
If you have attended your first Residency, refer to the Prospectus PowerPoint from Residency and any feedback given by faculty or peers. The most current template can be found in the DC Network.
- This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
- Doctoral learners are required to use APA style for their writing assignments. The APA Style Guide is located in the Student Success Center.
- Refer to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association for specific guidelines related to doctoral level writing. The Manual contains essential information on manuscript structure and content, clear and concise writing, and academic grammar and usage.
- This assignment requires that at least two additional scholarly research sources related to this topic, and at least one in-text citation from each source be included.
- You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.
- Directions
- Write a paper (1,250-1,500 words) in which you create an argument for your chosen methodology. Include the following in your paper:
- A refined statement of your potential dissertation topic.
A single-sentence problem statement that aligns with your potential dissertation topic.
A cohesive, literature-based argument for your choice of employing a quantitative or qualitative methodology for your study. How does this methodology align with your problem statement?
A cohesive argument for not choosing the alternate method to explore your study. Why does this methodology not align with your problem statement?
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