There are many forms that research can take. Research may use qualitative or quantitative methods or some combination thereof. Selecting the right methodology helps assure the success of the study and the production of meaningful results. However, many researchers tend to work backwards choosing the methodology and then attempting to conform the study to the chosen methodology. This should be done in a directly opposite fashion where the primary component of the research study inform and determine the methodology.

The ideal place to begin, then, is by determining a broad general topic area in which to conduct the research project. The topic area should be of significant interest to the researcher as much time and energy will be invested into the research project. The topic is then narrowed to a sharp focus that allows a clearly defined purpose and problem statement to be written. The purpose statement and problem statement will lead to a discussion of the academic merit of the study; will the project advance the knowledge base in the field to be studied?

As these ideas are developed, research questions will emerge that provide additional focus to the study. The creation of research questions, the purpose statement, and the problem statement is an iterative process. Information from the creation of each of these components will provide insight and direction into the creation of the others. It is important to allow these components to inform one another so that a cohesive research project is developed.

Once the purpose statement, problem statement, and research questions are clearly and fully developed, the methodology can be selected. Choosing form a variety of qualitative and quantitative methods may seem overwhelming. So, researchers must carefully examine each method and thoughtfully consider whether the method will adequately address the research questions and fulfill the purpose of the study. Not every method will work well for every situation. For example, choosing an ethnographic method to analyze data from measured data about global weather patterns would not be a good fit. The sample in question would require an quantitative methodology more suitable to the research questions and data.

Choosing a methodology does not need to be troublesome or difficult. Being familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of several research methods will allow for a reasonable selection of the method to be employed for a given study. When in doubt, consult with colleagues who have experience in research; the scholarly community tends to embrace these questions and to revel in lending a helping hand.