Methodology example for research

Methodology example for research

SECTION THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

This chapter outlines the methodology that will be used in the study. It explains the research design, sample size and selection, data collection methods and instruments, data management and analysis procedures, as well as the measures taken to ensure validity and reliability of the study. Additionally, it covers the measurement of variables.

3.2 Research Design

The study will employ a cross-sectional design. Explanatory research is useful for analyzing patterns and formulating hypotheses for future research. According to Amin (2005), explanatory research is ideal for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between variables. Given that the study seeks to explore relationships between variables, a simple bivariate correlation design will be used. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches will be applied. The quantitative approach is chosen to analyze the relationship between supplier relationships and procurement performance, as it allows for numerical data collection and statistical analysis (Amin, 2005:5). A qualitative approach will also be utilized to capture data that may not be addressed through quantitative methods, providing more in-depth insights into the topic.

3.3 Study Population

Sekaran (2018) defines a population as the complete set of people, events, or objects that a researcher aims to study. The population for this study consists of individuals with relevant experience and knowledge about strengthening community-based approaches to cultural site conservation.

3.4 Study Sample

Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) argue that it is impractical to study an entire population, hence a sample will be drawn. A sample is a subset of the population selected for study. Using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sample size determination table, a sample of 40 respondents will be drawn from a total population of 45 individuals, including Sezzibwa employees, local leaders, and tourists. Specifically, 5 local leaders, 10 conservationists, 5 tourists, and 20 employees managing Sezzibwa Falls will be selected.

3.5 Sampling Techniques and Procedure

Two sampling techniques will be used: simple random sampling and purposive sampling. Lower-level staff will be selected through simple random sampling, ensuring generalizability and minimizing bias (Sekaran, 2003). Purposive sampling will be employed to select procurement and accounts officials, as they are believed to have technical expertise relevant to the study.

3.6 Data Collection Methods

This section presents the data collection methods, which include surveys, interviews, and document reviews. Each method is chosen for its specific advantages.

3.6.1 Survey Method

The study will use questionnaires to collect data. As Mugenda and Mugenda (1999:107) suggest, questionnaires allow for data collection from a large group within a short period. They are also convenient for busy respondents, who can complete them at their leisure, and provide anonymity, encouraging honest responses (Oso & Onen, 2008:18).

3.6.2 Interview Method

Interviews will be conducted to gather in-depth information on the subject matter. This method allows for flexibility, clarification of questions, and follow-up probing for more detailed responses (Sekaran, 2003:253).

3.6.3 Document Review Method

The document review method will be used to obtain recorded information related to the study topic. This method enables the researcher to access thoughtful, detailed data at a convenient time and in the respondent’s language (Oso & Onen, 2008:45).

3.7 Data Collection Instruments

The instruments used for data collection will include questionnaires, interview guides, and a document review checklist.

3.7.1 Self-Administered Questionnaire

A structured questionnaire will be used to collect data from staff. It will include five sections, primarily using closed-ended questions to facilitate quicker responses and easier data analysis, reducing error (Sekaran, 2003:231).

3.7.2 Interview Guide

An unstructured interview guide will be employed to gather in-depth data from key informants. The guide will outline key topics and questions designed to elicit detailed responses related to community-based approaches for conserving cultural sites.

3.7.3 Document Review Checklist

The document review checklist will be used to supplement data collected through questionnaires and interviews. Documents such as reports, journals, and newspapers relevant to the study will be reviewed.

3.8 Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments

3.8.1 Validity

Validity refers to how accurately the results of a study can be interpreted and generalized (Oso & Onen, 2008). According to Amin (2005), a minimum content validity index (CVI) of 0.7 is recommended. Content validity will be tested by having experts review the research instruments and determine the relevancy of the questions to the study objectives. The CVI will be calculated using the formula:

CVI=nNCVI = \frac{n}{N}CVI=Nn​

Where $n$ is the number of relevant items and $N$ is the total number of items in the instrument.

3.8.2 Reliability

Reliability is the degree to which an instrument consistently produces the same results (Mugenda & Mugenda, 2003). Cronbach’s alpha will be used to assess reliability, with a coefficient of 0.7 or higher considered acceptable (Amin, 2005:302). The formula for Cronbach’s alpha is:

α=KK−1(∑SDi2SDt2)\alpha = \frac{K}{K-1} \left(\frac{\sum SD^2_i}{SD^2_t}\right)α=K−1K​(SDt2​∑SDi2​​)

Where $K$ is the number of items, ∑SDi2\sum SD^2_i∑SDi2​ is the sum of the item variances, and SDt2SD^2_tSDt2​ is the variance of the total scores.

3.9 Data Collection Procedure

The researcher will obtain a letter of introduction from Makerere University, which will be presented to the relevant authorities at Sezzibwa Falls. Respondents will be randomly selected to participate in the study, and questionnaires will be distributed. Senior and middle-level managers will be interviewed using a purposive sampling method.

3.10 Data Analysis

3.10.1 Analysis of Quantitative Data

Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations will be used to analyze respondent demographics and opinions. Pearson’s Product-Moment correlation will determine the relationship between variables, and regression analysis will assess the strength of these relationships. The data will be analyzed using SPSS version 16.0, with statistical significance set at 5%.

3.10.2 Analysis of Qualitative Data

Qualitative data will be analyzed using content analysis. Responses from interviews will be grouped into recurrent themes, with key quotes used to illustrate these findings.

3.11 Measurement of Variables

Data on supplier relationships and procurement performance will be collected using a five-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 5 (Strongly Agree), as suggested by Bowling (1997).

3.12 Ethical Considerations

The study will ensure respondent privacy and confidentiality, voluntary participation, and the ethical handling of data. Plagiarism will be avoided by properly citing and referencing all sources (Kothari, 2004).