The choice of methods impacts research outcomes from "summary" of Thinking Through Methods by John Levi Martin
When we embark on a research project, we often have a clear idea of what we want to find out. We may have a hypothesis to test, questions to answer, or patterns to uncover. However, the way we go about answering these questions can vary greatly depending on the methods we choose to employ. The methods we choose can have a significant impact on the outcomes of our research. For example, consider a study aiming to understand the relationship between social media use and mental health. If the researcher decides to use quantitative survey data, they may find a correlation between high social media use and symptoms of anxiety and depression. However, if the same researcher had chosen to conduct qualitative interviews instead, they may uncover a more nuanced understanding of how individuals perceive and experience social media in relation to their mental health. Different methods offer different levels of depth, precision, and insight. Quantitative methods are often better suited for identifying patterns and relationships at a broader level, while qualitative methods allow for a deeper exploration of individual experiences and perspectives. The choice between these methods can lead to vastly different research outcomes and conclusions. Moreover, the choice of methods can also influence the types of data we collect and the way we analyze and interpret that data. For instance, if a researcher decides to use historical documents as their primary source of data, they may uncover long-term trends and patterns that would have been impossible to observe through surveys or interviews. On the other hand, if the researcher chooses to use observational methods, they may capture behaviors and interactions that would have been difficult to capture through self-report measures.- The methods we choose to employ in our research can shape the outcomes and conclusions we draw from our studies. It is essential to carefully consider the strengths and limitations of different methods and choose the ones that best align with our research goals and questions. By doing so, we can ensure that our research is rigorous, insightful, and meaningful.
