The Research Studio is an online resource designed to help researchers of all types design a custom research methodology for their particular project. While the research studio is organized into nine components with clear linkages, the process of developing a custom research design is an iterative and often “messy” process. Each of the nine components is linked to the previous and subsequent components and all components are linked to the conceptual framework. Each of the components provides guidance in four areas: the basics, examples, alignment and integration, and www links. A short description of each of the nine components is provided to “set the stage” and frame the task. At least one example is provided for each component to help the concept “come alive.” More examples will be added in the future. Each research component must align and integrate with the other components. Each component has three primary linkages - the component that preceded the current component, the component that follows the current component, and the conceptual framework.

For a larger view click on the mindmap.

Becoming a “Scientist” - Richard Feynman

What is "social" science? One of my favorite “characters” was Richard Feynman a Nobel Prize winning Physicist. His 1974 Caltech commencement address offers an interesting perspective on social science or as he puts it Cargo Cult Science . This is a must read for all social scientists! For more on Richard Feynman check out the You Tube Videos: My Favorite Short Clips from the interviews - The Pleasure of Finding Things Out.

T + U Research Design Phases

Research design is divided into two major phases. The first phase is the “T” phase and includes: problem, purpose, research questions and conceptual framework. The second phase is the “U” phase and is composed of: literature, overall approach, data collection, data analysis and conclusions.  Read more...

One-Page Design Exercise

The first step prior to an abbreviated 5 to 10 page research prospectus is to develop a one-page research design. The one-page exercise helps you get the basics of the research methodology aligned and integrated prior to developing the more detailed abbreviated prospectus.  Read more...

Develop a Research Prospectus

A research prospectus is a brief overview (5 to 10 pages) of the key design and methodology components of a research study.  The purpose is to build quality into the proposal process by getting the “DNA” right before launching into developing a full-blown proposal.  Read more...

Align and Integrate

Consistency and congruence are critical design principles for a research methodology. The logic and flow mind map depicts many connections in a dissertation. These connections must be consistent and congruent. Read more...

Logic and Flow of the Dissertation

The Logic and Flow mind map explores the many connections between the key elements of a dissertation. These connections must be consistent and congruent. Mind Map.

Example Dissertations

Example doctoral dissertations (PDFs) are available for downloading - Download here

START HERE - Begin your research design journey by identifying the problem/opportunity and developing a problem statement.