Mixing and Remixing My Methods

This semester I am taking both my research seminar course and the qualitative analysis course. This combination of enrollments has provided me with numerous opportunities to reflect on my preferred research methods. I knew before I started the program that I gravitated towards qualitative research methods. However, after taking the quantitative analysis courses, I found that I had more of an aptitude for quantitative analysis than I originally thought. I believe that there should be a balance between the two. Each has its purpose and adds value to research when they are both present. 

My selected methodology for my dissertation is mixed-method. I have selected a before-and-after design. For the quantitative component, I intend to use the Technology Proficiency Survey for Educators instrument (TPSE) available through the Institute for the Integration of Technology into Teaching and Learning (IITTL). This survey will be administered to students enrolled in a digital tools course offered by the learning technologies department to students in the College of Education. The qualitative component is less clear at the moment. I would like to observe or interview the participants. However, due to my geographical location and the course, at least presently, being offered as an 8-week asynchronous course, interviews might be harder to conduct. Students would be less inclined to make time for a Zoom meeting, without any incentive.

The conversation with my classmate and again with the whole group in class was helpful. The discussion led to a former student’s dissertation that would help build my literature review and contribute to the foundation of my dissertation. Additionally, the group conversation yielded a website to visit for further evaluation. I have a handful of other ideas written down to continue looking into; however, those notations support my literature review more than my research methodology. 

When I think about what I would like to learn to further develop my research methodology I draw a blank. This is not because I already know all I need to know, far from it. What is more, I am not sure where to start. I am lacking focus, for a lot of reasons, and it is causing me to not know where I need to start asking questions. If I am building onto existing research, I do wonder how much of the previously used research methodologies should I continue within my research. Do I reinvent the wheel or am I developing my approach with a respectful nod to the researchers whose work has influenced and helped shape my own? 

All in all, I am still fine-tuning my dissertation research methodology. I continue to work on my ideas, revisit my topic, make adjustments, and repeat the cycle. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever be fully happy with it, but I know I need to get somewhere near happy with it so I can write it.