Some problems require examining causal or associative relationships between variables, while others require an in-depth exploration of a situation or phenomenon.

Introduction: Research Method and Design Selecting an appropriate research method and design is imperative to addressing the problem, achieving the purpose, and generating answers to the research questions through data analysis. While quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods may be appropriate to address a range of problems, it is the specific problem that generally indicates a methodological direction. Some problems require examining causal or associative relationships between variables, while others require an in-depth exploration of a situation or phenomenon. In some cases, neither qualitative nor quantitative data alone is sufficient to address the complexity of a problem. Such cases may warrant a mixed-methods approach. It is important to understand that you can choose a research method and design only after establishing your specific problem and purpose. If you choose your research method without a strong problem and purpose, you will likely struggle not only to align all elements of your study, but also to actually execute your study when the time comes. Once you have established your problem and purpose, you must consider which research method (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed) is the best choice to address the research problem. Use the University of the Rockies Library and recommended readings in this class to learn more about research methods and designs to identify the best approach to address your problem. Beginning this week, once you have received feedback from your instructor on last week’s LOI revision, you should begin your second LOI revision. While this revision is not due until Week 4, you will find that the rewrites are easier when your memory is fresh and you have time to process the feedback. Also, the feedback you receive might require that you do additional Internet and library research, and you want to give yourself sufficient time. Discussion 1 ________________________________________ Research Method and Design Select and justify the potential research method and design to address your problem, purpose, and to answer your research questions. Include: • one paragraph describing the method you selected • one paragraph describing the design selected • one paragraph justifying why the method and design are most appropriate for executing your study. Resources Required Text Heitner, K. L., & Sherman, K. C. (2014). Dissertation field guide. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education Inc. ________________________________________