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Distance Learning Research Tools: Research Methods

This guide provides useful tools to help you with your research process.

Research Methods & Variables

Literature review- usually a summary of sources providing an overview of the sources you've investigated during your research process. Depending on the assignment, the literature review may include evaluating sources and advising the reader about the most pertinent source.

 

Focus group- or focus group interview is a qualitative research tool used to explore attitudes and ideas about a particular topic. Usually there are 6-20 participants that meet specific characteristics of interest to the researcher. A focus group facilitator leads the group's discussion ensuring the group does not stray from the targeted discussion. (Remember a focus group does not represent views of a larger population).

 

Personal interviews- usually face-to-face and, allows a researcher the ability to obtain comprehensive, in-depth information. 

 

Telephone surveys- researchers can obtain valuable feedback from hard to reach participants, and this type of research method allows the flexibility for opinion probing.

 

Mail surveys-  a cost effective method for gathering information; perfect for extremely large sample sizes. 

 

Internet surveys- the most cost effective and fastest method of garnering information.

Subject Guide

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