Methodology
METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
This section outlines the key processes the study followed to investigate contractor selection criteria and project performance of construction works in UPE schools in Mbarara District. It focuses on the study design, area, population, sampling techniques and size, data collection methods, data quality assurance, analysis, ethical considerations, and expected limitations.
3.1 Study Design
The study utilized a cross-sectional research design. Cross-sectional studies are known for being relatively quick and cost-effective, providing a snapshot of a population at a specific moment in time. This design helps understand the prevalence of certain traits or issues by analyzing data from a population, or a representative subset, at a particular time (Kesmodel, 2018).
3.2 Study Population
Since FY 2016/17, Mbarara District Local Government has initiated 43 construction projects in UPE schools (Mbarara District Statistical Abstract, 2022). The unit of analysis was the construction project, and the unit of inquiry was the project managers overseeing these projects in Mbarara District.
3.3 Sampling
A sample refers to a subset of the population selected for study. Using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sample size determination table, 36 projects were selected from the total population of 43 projects.
3.4 Sampling Techniques
According to Brian Van (2010), sampling is the process of selecting essential elements from a population, ensuring the sample is representative. This study employed simple random sampling to select construction projects in UPE schools in Mbarara District.
3.4.1 Simple Random Sampling Technique
Simple random sampling was used to select the construction projects, ensuring each project had an equal chance of being included. A list of projects was obtained from the District Procurement Department, each project was assigned a number, and projects were selected by randomly picking numbers until all were sampled.
3.5 Data Collection Techniques
3.5.1 Questionnaire
Questionnaires were used to gather primary data. The questionnaire included both closed and open-ended questions designed to gather information based on the study objectives. Amin (2005) describes a questionnaire as a self-report instrument for collecting data on variables of interest.
3.6 Data Processing and Analysis
3.6.1 Quantitative Analysis
Data was organized, edited, and processed to ensure accuracy. It was then transformed into frequencies and percentages using SPSS version 21. Data entry involved checking for completeness, consistency, and accuracy. Missing or incomplete responses were eliminated, and negatively phrased scale items were reverse-coded. Descriptive statistics were generated to characterize the variables, while correlation analysis was used to explore the relationship between the independent and dependent variables and test the study’s hypothesis (Ragin, 2011).
3.7 Validity and Reliability
3.7.1 Validity
Validity refers to the accuracy of the data in representing participants’ realities (Schwandt, 1997). To ensure validity, the study utilized triangulation by combining interviews and observation data. A Content Validity Index (CVI) was used to measure the validity of the questionnaire, with a score above 0.7 considered valid. This was calculated using the formula:
CVI = Number of items rated relevant ÷ Total number of items
3.7.2 Reliability
Reliability refers to the consistency of the results produced by the assessment tool (Colin, 2006). To ensure reliability, SPSS (version 7.0) was used to compute Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient values, with an accepted alpha level above 0.5 (Amin, 2005). Regular checks on the recording equipment during interviews further ensured reliability.
3.8 Ethical Considerations
To meet ethical standards, the researcher obtained an introductory letter from Kyambogo University and permission from Mbarara District Local Government. Respondents were informed of the study’s purpose, assured of confidentiality, and given the option to remain anonymous. All information was treated with confidentiality, and the study adhered to Ministry of Health COVID-19 guidelines, including mask-wearing, sanitizing, and social distancing during data collection.
