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CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

This chapter outlines the research methods employed to examine the relationships between contractors’ financial capability, technical ability, and managerial capability on project performance in Mbarara District Local Government. The study design, study area, population, sampling techniques, data collection methods, quality assurance, data analysis, ethical considerations, and potential limitations are discussed in detail.

3.1 Study Design

A descriptive case study design was adopted to analyze how contractors’ financial, technical, and managerial capacities influence project performance in Mbarara District. According to Kothari (2014), this design allows researchers to systematically describe the characteristics of the variables under investigation.

Additionally, a cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach was used to assess the relationship between contractor selection criteria and project performance in UPE schools. This approach facilitated the examination of variables at a specific point in time.

3.2 Study Population

The study focused on 36 construction projects implemented in UPE schools under Mbarara District Local Government from the 2016/17 financial year to date (Mbarara District Statistical Abstract, 2022). These projects were selected because they were the only ongoing constructions in the district. The target respondents included:

• Project managers
• District Executive Committee members
• School Management Committees
• School administrators

3.3 Sampling

The study covered all 36 construction projects in UPE schools within Mbarara District.

3.4 Sampling Techniques

As highlighted by Brian van (2010), sampling involves selecting representative elements from a population to ensure accurate findings. This study used:

• Simple random sampling to select general respondents.
• Purposive sampling to identify key informants, such as senior management, based on their expertise (Amin, 2005).

3.4.1 Simple Random Sampling Technique

A list of contractors was obtained from the District Engineering Department, numbered, and randomly selected to ensure equal participation. This method minimized bias and enhanced the reliability of responses.

3.5 Data Collection Techniques

3.5.1 Questionnaire

A structured questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions was used to collect primary data. As defined by Amin (2005), a questionnaire is a self-report tool designed to gather information on specific research variables. The questions were aligned with the study objectives.

3.6 Data Processing and Analysis

3.6.1 Quantitative Analysis

Data was cleaned, coded, and analyzed using SPSS Version 21 to ensure accuracy. Incomplete responses were excluded, and negatively phrased items were reverse-coded. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and inferential statistics (correlation analysis) were generated to assess relationships between variables (Ragin, 2011).

3.7 Validity and Reliability

3.7.1 Validity

Validity ensures that research instruments accurately measure intended variables (Schwandt, 1997). To enhance validity:

• A tape recorder was used for accurate documentation.
• Triangulation (combining interviews and observations) was applied.
• The Content Validity Index (CVI) was calculated, with scores above 0.7 considered valid (Amin, 2005).

Table 3.2: CVI Indices and Interpretation

Source: Shi (2012) & Researcher (2023)

3.7.2 Reliability

Reliability refers to the consistency of research instruments (Colin, 2006). Measures included:

• Ensuring recording devices functioned properly.
• Using Cronbach’s Alpha (α) to test internal consistency (α > 0.5 considered acceptable).

Table 3.3: Reliability Indices

Source: Albrecht (1981) & Researcher (2023)

3.8 Ethical Considerations

To uphold research ethics:

• Approval letters were obtained from Kyambogo University and Mbarara District Local Government.
• Respondents were briefed on the study’s purpose and benefits.
• Confidentiality and anonymity were assured.
• COVID-19 safety protocols (mask-wearing, sanitizing, social distancing) were followed during data collection.