This document discusses exploratory research methods and their purpose in research. It summarizes Boyer's model of scholarship and Dewey's theory of evidence-based learning. The document then outlines various exploratory research methods including focus groups, literature reviews, surveys, interviews, pilot studies, case studies, and qualitative vs. quantitative research designs. The goal of exploratory research is to initially clarify and define a problem without providing conclusive evidence, with the expectation that further research will be conducted.
3. WHY RESEARCH?
“… research-based scholarly
activity helps the individual
faculty member to become a
better teacher.”
(Richard & Parker, 1992, p. 79)
“… leads to new and useful
theories…”
(Armstrong)
12. DEWEY DEFINING INQUIRY
“truth is inseparable
from action and
knowledge”
1. Indeterminate situation or an
area of felt difficulty
2. Recognize and state the
problem
3. Determine a reasonable and
plausible solution
4. Action… test the hypothesis
14. RESEARCH AND TEACHING
Necessary ingredient in
effective teaching
Improves the practice of a
particular discipline
Perpetuates the discipline
All faculty should teach and
transmit knowledge
(Richard & Parker, 1992, p. 79)
15. HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPLORATORY RESEARCH
Initial research conducted to
clarify and define the nature of
a problem
Does not provide conclusive
evidence
Subsequent research expected
May not be as rigorous
Sample sizes may be small
Results may lead to your
next study
16. FOUR METHODS TO IMPLEMENT EXPLORATORY RESEARCH
Focus groups
Secondary research (a
literature review… find the
gaps)
Expert / experience survey
Open-ended questions
17. EXPERIENCE SURVEYS (EXPERT INTERVIEWS)
Select a topic for a
research problem
Ask knowledgeable
individuals
Conduct interviews
Conduct surveys
Surveymonkey
Qualtrics
18. PILOT STUDY
Any small scale exploratory
study that uses sampling
Does not apply rigorous
standards
Not necessary to use…
Validated survey tools
May generate a survey
tool or theory from the
research results
19. CASE STUDY METHOD
Intensely investigates one
or a few situations similar
to the problem
Investigate in depth
Careful study
May require…
Cooperation
Permission
20. FOCUS GROUP INTERVIEWS
Unstructured
Free flowing
Group interview
Start with broad topic and
focus in on specific issues
21. GROUP COMPOSITION
6 to 10 people
Relatively homogeneous
Similar lifestyles and
experiences
22. IRB APPROVAL Don’t forget to run ALL research through your Institution’s
Review Board.