Descriptive Research Method Essay Example

may pose ethical dilemmas, particularly when observing private behaviors or when the observer becomes part of the group being studied (participant observation). Another frequently utilized approach is survey research, which entails asking individuals structured questions to assess their beliefs, attitudes, and self-reported behavior.

For researchers aiming to apply responses to a larger group, obtaining a representative sample is vital. Results from surveys that rely on self-selection, where individuals choose to participate, cannot be generalized. Surveys are also valuable for conducting correlational research as they enable the comparison of responses to certain demographic-related questions with responses to other questions concerning attitudes or behavior.

When conducting surveys, it is crucial to consider the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the questions. More information on question framing issues can be found in Appendix B. Even if the questions are clear and neutral, respondents may display a social desirability bias by favoring positive or socially acceptable responses.

Surveys can be carried out through different methods, including face-to-face interviews which are considered the most effective but also the most costly. Phone surveys offer a cheaper alternative but have a higher non-response rate, possibly due to caller ID. Lastly, written or mail surveys provide the least expensive option but tend to have significantly higher non-response rates. Sending follow-up messages can help improve response rates.

In addition to survey methods, archival research involves analyzing existing data or records.

Investigation into 'lunar lunacy' relies on the study of accident records, homicides, 911 calls, and emergency room usage. The examination of archives often includes content analysis to assess material in a qualitative manner. This analysis helps determine if there was an increase in the portrayal of women and minorities

in US history books from 1920 to 2000. Some types of archival research can be categorized as quasi-experimental.

An example of this can be seen in Ulrich's research on the recovery process after surgery, where he conducted a comparison between rooms with a picturesque view of nature (specifically trees) and rooms without such a view. The study can be accessed at http://homepage.psy.utexas.edu/homepage/faculty/Burnham/III-03%20Descriptive%20Res.

HTM The Descriptive Method in Research: Understanding its Meaning

By Alan Valdez, eHow Contributor

Descriptive statistics can be utilized to summarize the outcomes of descriptive research. Descriptive research focuses on providing a description of data and characteristics relating to a specific population. The objective is to gather factual, accurate, and systematic data that can be employed in statistical calculations such as averages and frequencies. Descriptive studies typically do not involve experimentation, as they concentrate more on naturally occurring phenomena rather than observing controlled situations. Descriptive research aims to outline the existing distribution of variables instead of constructing theories.

Descriptive studies aim to provide information on the individuals, objects, times, and locations involved. However, they do not investigate the cause-effect relationship ("why" question) as this research type does not analyze how one variable affects another. Researchers have various tools for conducting descriptive studies, such as case studies that provide a thorough analysis of an individual or event, and case series that consolidate multiple cases into a single report.

Prevalence studies in medical research depict population healthcare, while social scientists can employ observation and ethnography methods without influencing the observed phenomenon. Archival research involves analyzing existing records and data when fieldwork is not possible. Descriptive statistics improve descriptive research by presenting quantitative information concisely. Additionally, statistical

tools help generate graphs to visualize the data.

Descriptive statistics, in contrast to inferential statistics, do not aim to draw conclusions or make inferences from the given data. Nonetheless, they serve various purposes such as providing initial insights for new research areas, identifying future investigation possibilities, quantifying the significance and prevalence of a situation, monitoring trends, and assisting in formulating testable hypotheses. It is crucial to acknowledge that descriptive studies have limitations; one common error is exceeding the available data by making unsupported inferences and reaching conclusions that are not within a descriptive framework.

It is necessary to thoroughly investigate and scientifically examine any indication of a causal relationship suggested by the data in a subsequent study.