Answer to Question 1
The conventional research model focuses on quantitative research. Here
the goal is scientific objectivity, and the focus is on data that can be
measured numerically.
The conventional research model includes the following steps: (1) Select and clearly define
the research problem (topic), (2) Review previous researchit is important to review the
literature to see what others have written about the topic, (3) Formulate the hypothesisa
statement of the relationship between two or more concepts (independent variable and
dependent variable) and create an operational definitionan explanation of an abstract
concept in terms of observable features that are specific enough to measure the variable, (4)
Develop the research designconsidering the units of analysis (what or whom is being
studied) and the time frame of the study (cross-sectional studies or longitudinal studies), (5)
Collect (random sampling and probability sampling) and analyze the data (validity and
reliability), and (6) Draw conclusions (noting limitations of the study) and report the findings.
By contrast, with qualitative research, an interpretive description (words) rather than statistics
(numbers) is used to analyze underlying meanings and patterns of social relationships. A
qualitative approach often involves a different type of research question and a smaller
number of cases.
Answer to Question 2
b