Mastering Research Through Rigorous Design

Prologue

John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell's "Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches" is a comprehensive guide that illuminates the intricacies of research methodology. Now in its 5th edition, this seminal work continues to be an indispensable resource for students, educators, and researchers across various disciplines.

The authors expertly navigate the complex landscape of research design, offering clear explanations and practical insights into qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. This book not only provides a solid foundation in research methodology but also equips readers with the tools to craft effective research proposals and conduct rigorous studies. This book is a MUST for graduate and doctoral students who are assigned a thesis paper or dissertation.

??Highlights and Key Takeaways

1. Comprehensive coverage of research approaches: The book offers in-depth explanations of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research, helping readers understand the strengths and applications of each approach.
2. Practical guidance for research design: Step-by-step instructions for developing research proposals and conducting studies, making the research process more accessible to novice researchers.
3. Emphasis on ethical considerations: The authors dedicate significant attention to the ethical aspects of research, ensuring readers understand the importance of responsible research practices.
4. Integration of theory and practice: The book effectively bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications, using examples and exercises to reinforce learning.
5. Updated content on mixed methods: This edition includes expanded coverage of mixed methods research, reflecting the growing importance of this approach in contemporary research.

?? Why Readers (and perhaps you can) Enjoy the Book

"Research Design" offers a wealth of knowledge that can benefit readers at various stages of their research journey. The authors' clear and accessible writing style makes complex concepts easier to grasp, even for those new to research methodology. The book's practical approach, with numerous examples and exercises, allows readers to apply theoretical concepts to real-world research scenarios. For experienced researchers, the book serves as a valuable reference, offering fresh perspectives and updated information on evolving research practices. The comprehensive coverage of mixed methods research is particularly valuable, given the growing popularity of this approach across disciplines.

?? My Favorite Bits

TNTC. But here are some very helpful sections, for those in the giant sea of academic research and with little time to find the details. I recommend readers to slowly read and come to understand the following sections:

1. Chp 1 - Learn about the qualitative Designs: Narrative, Phenomenological, Grounded, Ethnography, and Case Study.
2. Chp 4 - Review the Ethical Issues in research as you write including: Prior to conducting the study; Beginning the study; Collecting data; Analyzing data; and Reporting, sharing, and storing data.
3. Chp 8 - Learn to understand the difference between Descriptive Statistics and Inferential Statistics. (Recommend you read: URL)
4. Chp 9 - Understand how to conduct interviews, collect Primary and Secondary data, store data in, and analyze data. Ensure yo ubecome familiar with software such as: Atlas.ti, QDA NVivo 15, Zotero, and or Mendeley.

"Keep raw data and other materials... Data once analyzed, need to be kept for a reasonable period of time (APA, 5 years). After this period, investigators should discard the data so that it does not fall into the hands of other researchers who might misappropriate it.

?? The Not-So-Great Bits

The book's breadth of coverage, while comprehensive, can be overwhelming for absolute beginners in research methodology. Some readers have found certain sections to be dense with technical language, which may require additional effort to fully comprehend.

Despite the authors' efforts to include diverse examples, some readers have suggested that more varied and contemporary case studies could further enhance the book's relevance across different fields of study.

"Triangulate... If themes are established based on converging several sources of data or perspectives from participants, then this process can be claimed as adding to the validity of the study."

Use a rich, thick description to convey the findings.

The Bottom Line

"Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches" remains a cornerstone text in research methodology. Its comprehensive coverage, practical approach, and clear explanations make it an invaluable resource for students, educators, and researchers alike.

PROFESSIONAL: I conduct academic research by interviewing CEOs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Japan, known as Japanese Global Niche Top (aka "Hidden Champion").

• I am also conducting a holistic four-year study that examines the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in Japan, which includes interviews with startups, incubators, accelerators, studios, living labs, venture capitalists, and government officials (to date, individuals have been interviewed in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima).

PERSONAL: I am a polymath and love all types of topics typically reading 2-3 books each week. Now, I have a chance to share my insights with readers!

Fair Use Disclaimer:

This review includes excerpts from "Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches" 5th Ed. by John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell. These excerpts are used under the doctrine of fair use, as outlined in Section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, for purposes of criticism, commentary, and education. All rights to the original content belong to John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell and Sage Publications Publishing. No copyright infringement is intended.