Proposed Research Design for Dissertation

 

 

Proposed Research Design for Dissertation

Introduction

Selecting an appropriate research design is crucial for any dissertation, as it fundamentally shapes how research questions are approached and answered. For my intended dissertation, which aims to explore the impact of remote work on employee productivity and job satisfaction, I have chosen a mixed-methods design based on the Grand Canyon University (GCU) Core Designs. This paper will discuss the rationale for selecting the mixed-methods approach, supported by relevant literature, and will also outline why other GCU Core Designs may not be as suitable for this research.

GCU Core Design: Mixed-Methods Approach

The mixed-methods approach combines qualitative and quantitative research methods, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of complex phenomena. This design is particularly suitable for my dissertation due to the multifaceted nature of remote work, which encompasses both measurable productivity outcomes and subjective experiences regarding job satisfaction.

Research-Supported Rationale for Mixed-Methods Design

1. Comprehensive Data Collection: Mixed-methods research enables the collection of both numerical data (quantitative) and narrative data (qualitative). According to Creswell and Plano Clark (2017), this duality allows researchers to validate findings through triangulation, enhancing the reliability and credibility of the results. In the context of my dissertation, quantitative data can provide insights into productivity metrics, such as hours worked and project completion rates, while qualitative interviews can capture employees’ feelings about their work environment and job satisfaction.

2. Flexibility in Research Questions: The mixed-methods design offers flexibility in addressing various aspects of the research question. For instance, while quantitative data can reveal trends in productivity, qualitative data can explore underlying factors that influence these trends. This aligns with the findings of Johnson, Onwuegbuzie, and Turner (2007), who argue that mixed-methods designs allow researchers to ask ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions that are often overlooked in purely quantitative studies.

3. Addressing Complex Interactions: The interplay between remote work conditions and employee outcomes is complex and influenced by various factors, including organizational culture and personal circumstances. A mixed-methods approach facilitates a more nuanced analysis, allowing researchers to examine how different variables affect one another. This complexity is highlighted by Baruch (2000), who notes that job satisfaction is influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may require different methodological approaches to fully understand.

Discussion of Other GCU Core Designs

Qualitative Design

While qualitative research focuses on understanding phenomena through in-depth exploration, it may not provide the necessary breadth needed for my dissertation. Qualitative methods primarily yield rich, descriptive insights but lack the ability to generalize findings to a larger population (Creswell, 2013). Since my research aims to quantify productivity changes across a broad spectrum of employees working remotely, relying solely on qualitative methods would limit the scope and applicability of my findings.

Quantitative Design

Conversely, a purely quantitative design may overlook critical contextual factors that influence employee experiences. While quantitative methods excel in measuring relationships and establishing statistical significance, they often fail to capture the depth of human experiences associated with remote work (Bryman, 2006). In my dissertation, understanding employee perceptions of job satisfaction is essential; thus, relying exclusively on quantitative measures would provide an incomplete picture.

Conclusion

In summary, the mixed-methods design is the most suitable choice for my dissertation on the impact of remote work on employee productivity and job satisfaction. This approach allows for the integration of both quantitative and qualitative insights, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions at play. By leveraging the strengths of mixed methods while acknowledging the limitations of purely qualitative or quantitative designs, my research can yield rich, actionable insights that contribute meaningfully to the field.

References

– Baruch, Y. (2000). Distance Learning: A Review of the Literature. International Journal of Management Reviews, 2(2), 155-191.
– Bryman, A. (2006). Integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Research: How Is It Done? Qualitative Research, 6(1), 97-113.
– Creswell, J. W. (2013). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (4th ed.). Sage Publications.
– Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2017). Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research (3rd ed.). Sage Publications.
– Johnson, R. B., Onwuegbuzie, A. J., & Turner, L. A. (2007). Toward a Definition of Mixed Methods Research. Journal of Mixed Methods Research, 1(2), 112-133.

This paper provides a clear rationale for my chosen research design while articulating why alternatives may not serve my research objectives as effectively.