Research methods and evidence-based practice (4th ed.)
Understanding research methods for evidence-based practice in health
Essential research for evidence-based practice in nursing care Call
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Researchers use a variety of approaches and tools to test theories, gather data, analyse findings, and interpret results. Their goal is to validate existing knowledge or uncover new insights. These research methods fall into three main categories:
Understanding how different methods are applied in research studies can help you to identify the most reliable evidence, interpret it effectively, and integrate it into your practice as part of the EBP process.
Quantitative research focuses on numerical data to obtain precise measurements that can be analysed statistically. Many studies using this approach test hypotheses by systematically examining relationships between variables. The goal is to quantify these relationships and represent them mathematically through statistical analysis. This method is widely used in scientific research to provide objective, measurable findings.
Qualitative research explores human behaviours, attitudes, and experiences using descriptive language rather than numerical data. It seeks to answer a broad range of questions about how individuals respond to actual or potential health challenges, treatments, or interventions. The primary aim of qualitative research is to describe, explore, and explain phenomena in depth.
Comparison of quantitative and qualitative research
| Quantitative research | Qualitative research |
|---|---|
| Focus: Tests theories and hypotheses to find patterns and cause-and-effect relationships. | Focus: Explores experiences, behaviours, and meanings. Often used to develop new ideas or theories. |
| Example study designs: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), case-control studies, cohort studies, single-subject studies. | Example study designs: Ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, biography, case study. |
| Sampling: Participants are randomly selected to ensure unbiased results. Sample size is predetermined and important for statistical accuracy. | Sampling: Participants are chosen based on their experiences or relevance to the study. Sample sizes are usually small and flexible. |
| Data collection methods: Uses controlled experiments, surveys, and structured measurements to ensure consistency and reliability. | Data collection methods: Interviews, focus groups, open-ended questionnaires, observations, and document analysis. Less focus on controlling variables. |
| Types of data: Numerical data that can be measured and analysed statistically to identify patterns and relationships. | Types of data: Detailed descriptions of people’s experiences, observations, and written records. Does not involve statistical analysis. |
Mixed methods research integrates both quantitative and qualitative approaches within a single study to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a research problem. This approach prioritises the research question, utilising multiple methods to gain deeper insights and a broader perspective.