
There are three most important descriptive research design methods: 1. Sampling error would lead to unreliable and inaccurate results. The randomness may lead to sampling error if the sample group isn’t representative of the larger population. The descriptive research method generally employs random sampling while selecting a sample group. There may be instances when people provide false responses, compromising the validity of the data collected and the research results. Risk of untrue responsesĭescriptive research relies on the responses of people, especially when conducted using surveys. This also makes it more tedious to carry out a credible investigation. If the research problem isn’t formulated well, then the data collected may not be entirely reliable. The descriptive method of research cannot be used to test or verify the research problem as the data collected does not help explain the cause of the phenomena being studied. Cannot test or verify the research question The following are a few disadvantages of using a descriptive research design: 1. Results obtained through the descriptive method of research often have high external validity as research is conducted in the respondent’s natural environment and no variables are manipulated. Comprehensiveĭescriptive research often uses quantitative and qualitative research in amalgamation, providing a more holistic understanding of the research topic. It will enable them to conduct product, customer, brand, and market research using suitable channels. Researchers aiming to conduct market research using this research design should leverage integrated market research software. Fast and cost-effectiveĪs the descriptive research design often employs the use of surveys, data can be collected from a very large sample size quickly and cost-effectively. They can also decide how they want to collect the data, online, offline, or via phone. Research can use a wide range of methods for data collection, such as case studies, observational, and survey methods. The following are a few advantages of using a descriptive research design: 1. To verify or validate existing conditionsĭescriptive research can prove to be a useful tool when trying to test the validity of an existing condition as it involves conducting an in-depth analysis of every variable before drawing conclusions. This can include characteristics such as opinions, traits, behavior, etc. It can also be used to determine the different characteristics of the subjects. To define the characteristics of subjects To compare variablesĭescriptive research can be used to compare different variables and how different demographics respond to different variables. The descriptive method of research can be used to measure changes in variables over a period of time, allowing trends to be identified and analyzed. Here are some important uses of descriptive research design: 1.

There are many different contexts in which the use of a descriptive research design is beneficial. The findings of descriptive research can help inform decision-making, policy development, and program planning. It can be used in social science research to explore and document the nature and scope of a problem, to identify trends and patterns, and to provide a basis for subsequent research. A cross-sectional study is a type of observational study that involves gathering information on various variables at the individual level at a given point in time.Ī descriptive approach to research allows researchers to thoroughly investigate the background of a research problem before further research can be carried out. The descriptive research method is generally carried out through cross-sectional studies.

The data collected in descriptive research provides a base for further research as it helps obtain a comprehensive understanding of the research question so that it can be answered appropriately. Instead, they are simply identified, observed, and measured. One of the most prominent characteristics of descriptive research is that, unlike in experimental research, the variables are not controlled or manipulated. Quantitative in natureĭescriptive research involves the collection of quantifiable and systematic data that can be used for the statistical analysis of the research problem. Let’s take a look at the defining characteristics of the descriptive research design: 1.
