The research process

Stages in the research process

Scientific inquiry combines the set of norms just described with a method for observing events and processes in the world about us. Figure 1.1 shows the research process in terms of eight inter-related stages. In Chapter 2, we show how a group of researchers went through these steps in conducting a large research project in the Sudan. For now, we want to point out three important characteristics of the process.

A sequence of actions

First, research generally follows the sequence of stages shown in Figure 1.1. A researcher begins by stating the problem or research question he or she intends to investigate and then proceeds through each of the remaining stages. The review of the literature, generally the second stage, consists of identifying and analyzing research reports bearing on the research question. After becoming familiar with other research on the question being investigated, the researcher may formulate a hypothesis, but this step is not required. All research, however, requires a plan or design for the collection and analysis of data. The design is a very important part of any study. At this stage, the researcher selects and defines the specific characteristics for which data will be collected and decides how to measure these characteristics.   Identifying who the data will be collected from, called constructing a sample, is part of the design phase. The next step consists of data collection, using the measuring instruments developed in the design phase. A nalysis follows, which produces the results or findings of the study. Based on the results obtained, a researcher then provides an interpretation of what the results mean. The interpretation of the findings leads to presentation of the conclusions of the investigation. The final stage consists of writing a report that describes the decisions and actions taken throughout the entire process.

An iterative process

Second, notice that the arrows connecting the stages are bi-directional: They point in both directions. Although an investigation normally proceeds from the definition of the research question to the review of the literature and on to the next stage, unexpected problems almost always come up. Some of these may be serious enough to require going back to an earlier stage for rethinking some earlier decisions. For example, a researcher may select a certain problem and move on to the review of the literature only to discover that the planned research has already been done. Then, the researcher has to start over.

At the design stage, researchers sometimes find that additional measures are needed for the variables they wish to investigate. This too can lead the researcher back to the literature for new ideas. This kind of back and forth movement occurs at all stages of research.

As a beginning researcher, you may have a false start or have to abandon your initial idea after you get into your project. If this happens, don't despair. Consider it as a learning experience. Also, be assured that this back and forth process is common in research. All researchers, even those with a lot of experience, go through this iterative process. With experience, however, the process becomes easier.

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