Methodology example in research
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter outlines the methods and procedures to be employed in the data collection and analysis phases of the study. Data will be gathered from fieldwork, which includes conducting a pavement condition survey through visual inspections and field sampling via interviews with key stakeholders. The goal is to determine the underlying causes of flexible pavement failure along the Kabale–Kisoro road, in order to extend its design life.
3.2 Research Design
The chosen research design is critical, as it sets the framework for investigating the causes of repeated pavement failures. A mixed-methods approach has been selected, combining both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to offer a comprehensive understanding of the issue. The quantitative component involves objective measurement of pavement distress using established rating systems, while the qualitative component focuses on gathering insights from key stakeholders through interviews.
Figure 1: Chart of Research Design/Process
3.3 Data Collection
The data collection phase is crucial, as it directly influences the study’s validity and reliability. For the quantitative portion, extensive pavement surveys will be conducted along the Kabale–Kisoro road. Trained surveyors will visually inspect the road to document various types of distress, such as cracks, rutting, and surface deformations, in line with the guidelines established in the literature (Cheng & Chen, 2019). These inspections will be systematic to ensure consistency.
In parallel, qualitative data will be gathered through semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, including road users, engineers, maintenance staff, and authorities. These interviews will explore their experiences and observations regarding pavement issues, offering a deeper understanding of the operational factors contributing to failures. As Schaefer (1996) highlights, questionnaires are an effective tool for survey and statistical research, and they will be supplemented by records, observations, journals, and online sources.
3.4 Data Analysis
The analysis stage is vital for transforming collected data into actionable insights. Quantitative data, including Pavement Condition Index (PCI) and Visual Condition Rating (VCR) scores, will be statistically analyzed to calculate averages, standard deviations, and other measures that provide an overview of the pavement’s condition. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will be used to spatially visualize the distribution of pavement distress along the road.
For qualitative data, thematic analysis will be applied to the transcribed interviews, identifying recurring themes and patterns. This inductive analysis will ensure that findings are directly drawn from participants’ insights, offering a grounded understanding of the causes of pavement failures.
3.5 Validation
Ensuring the reliability and validity of the study’s findings is essential. For quantitative data, inter-rater reliability tests will be conducted to evaluate the consistency of the distress assessments made by different surveyors. This will enhance the reliability of the results.
For qualitative data, member checking will be used as a validation technique. This involves sharing transcribed interviews and preliminary findings with participants to confirm the accuracy of the researcher’s interpretations. Member checking will strengthen the credibility of the qualitative findings by allowing participants to verify that their experiences have been correctly understood.
3.6 Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations are integral to this research. Informed consent will be obtained from all interview participants, ensuring they fully understand the study’s purpose and their role. The research team will adhere to strict ethical guidelines to protect participants’ confidentiality and anonymity. Additionally, appropriate steps will be taken to safeguard participants’ privacy and secure data storage.
3.7 Description of the Research Area
The Kabale–Kisoro Road runs through central Uganda, connecting Kampala to the southwestern districts and cities. It is a fully paved, single-carriageway road and serves as a major artery linking Kampala with towns such as Masaka, Mbarara, Kabale, Kisoro, and the Rwanda border. The road experiences heavy traffic, partly due to the numerous social and commercial establishments along its route. The research will focus on a 5-kilometer stretch of this road, where pavement failures are particularly prevalent.
