Guidelines for Initiating a Research Agenda: Research Design and Dissemination of Results

Maria E. Delost; Teresa S. Nadder

doi:10.29074/ascls.27.4.237

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Maria E. Delost, Ph.D., MT(ASCP)⇑
1. Youngstown State University, Dept. of Health Professions, Youngstown, OH
Teresa S. Nadder, Ph.D., MLS(ASCP)^CM
1. Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA

Address for Correspondence: Maria E. Delost, Ph.D., MT(ASCP), Professor and Director of Medical Laboratory Programs, Youngstown State University, Dept. of Health Professions, 1 University Plaza, Youngstown, OH 44555, 330-941-1761, medelost{at}ysu.edu

Describe factors influencing the choice of research design.
Explain strengths and weaknesses of both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
Characterize descriptive, inferential, and survey research.
Describe the conventional scientific manuscript organizational structure.
Discuss the importance of and mechanisms for research findings dissemination.

Abstract

Successful research outcomes require selection and implementation of the appropriate research design. A realistic sampling plan appropriate for the design is essential. Qualitative or quantitative methodology may be utilized, depending on the research question and goals. Quantitative research may be experimental where there is an intervention, or nonexperimental, if no intervention is included in the design. Causation can only be established with experimental research. Popular types of nonexperimental research include descriptive and survey research. Research findings may be disseminated via presentations, posters, and publications, such as abstracts and manuscripts.

ABBREVIATIONS: DV - Dependent variable, IV - Independent variable