exploratory research
TRANSCRIPT
WHY RESEARCH?
“… research-based
scholarly activity helps the
individual faculty member
to become a better
teacher.”
(Richard & Parker, 1992, p. 79)
“… leads to new and
useful theories…”
(Armstrong)
DEWEY DEFINING INQUIRY
“truth is inseparable
from action and
knowledge”
1. Indeterminate situation or
an area of felt difficulty
2. Recognize and state the
problem
3. Determine a reasonable
and plausible solution
4. Action… test the hypothesis
RESEARCH AND TEACHING
Necessary ingredient in
effective teaching
Improves the practice of a
particular discipline
Perpetuates the discipline
All faculty should teach and
transmit knowledge
(Richard & Parker, 1992, p. 79)
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPLORATORY RESEARCH
Initial research conducted
to clarify and define the
nature of a problem
Does not provide conclusive
evidence
Subsequent research
expected
May not be as rigorous
Sample sizes may be
small
Results may lead to your
next study
FOUR METHODS TO IMPLEMENT EXPLORATORY RESEARCH
Focus groups
Secondary research (a
literature review… find the
gaps)
Expert / experience survey
Open-ended questions
EXPERIENCE SURVEYS (EXPERT INTERVIEWS)
Select a topic for a
research problem
Ask knowledgeable
individuals
Conduct interviews
Conduct surveys
Surveymonkey
Qualtrics
PILOT STUDY
Any small scale
exploratory study that
uses sampling
Does not apply rigorous
standards
Not necessary to
use…
Validated survey tools
May generate a survey
tool or theory from the
research results
CASE STUDY METHOD
Intensely investigates
one or a few situations
similar to the problem
Investigate in depth
Careful study
May require…
Cooperation
Permission
FOCUS GROUP INTERVIEWS
Unstructured
Free flowing
Group interview
Start with broad topic
and focus in on specific
issues
Assistant Professor and Chair of the Bachelors of Arts in Business Leadership,
Forbes College of Business at Ashford University
Ed.D. Educational Leadership, University of Phoenix
MA, Organizational Management, University of Phoenix
MHR, Human Relations, University of Oklahoma
BS, Business Management and Administration, University of Maryland (European
Division)
Worked as a Dean of General Education, National Training Manager, and the
US government (DoD, USAF, & USA), corporations, and higher education.
DR. ANDREE SWANSON© 2014, Dr. Andree Swanson