GRASP
Getting started with research methods
April 8th, 2026, by
For many HDR students, one of the most challenging parts of the research journey is knowing where to start with research methods. Even if you have a well-defined research question, choosing everything from a study design, a sampling strategy, data collection methods and data analysis techniques can all feel quite overwhelming. This post offers some tips and resources to help guide you through the process, and to hopefully make it a little bit easier.
Quantitative or qualitative methods - or both?
Often the first question you will ask yourself is whether your research should be quantitative, qualitative or a mix of both. However, it can be more helpful to start instead by considering your research question and what exactly it is asking. Are you trying to measure relationships or to test hypotheses? If so, a quantitative approach may be appropriate. On the other hand, if you are exploring experiences, meanings or perspectives, a qualitative approach will likely be a better fit. Or in many cases, combining both in a mixed methods approach can provide a richer and more detailed understanding.
Study designs
Once you have given some thought to your overall approach, a useful next step is to consider your study design – that is, the plan for conducting your research. In quantitative research, study design selection is often shaped by practical and theoretical considerations such as sample size, ethical concerns and time and resource constraints. By contrast, in qualitative research the choice of design is shaped primarily by your research methodology - including your ontological and epistemological position, theoretical framework, and broader research paradigm. Examples of commonly used study designs in quantitative research include cross-sectional, cohort and case-control studies and randomised controlled trials, while qualitative study designs include case studies, grounded theory, and phenomenology.
Sampling methods
Another key consideration is how you will sample your participants (or data or other items). In quantitative research, probability sampling methods are typically required to ensure that the sample is representative of the target population, and larger sample sizes are generally preferred. Qualitative research, on the other hand, prioritises depth rather than breadth. Sample size is guide by data saturation, and sampling is usually purposeful – meaning researchers intentionally select participants who can provide rich, relevant and meaningful information about the phenomenon being studied.
Data collection methods
In addition to deciding who to collect data from, you also need to think about how you will collect it. In quantitative research, common methods include questionnaires, existing records and standardised measurements, while in qualitative research, data is often collected through interviews, focus groups and observations. In either case, when selecting your methods you will need to consider not only your research question and study design, but also the resources you have available.
Data analysis techniques
Finally, you will need to plan how to analyse your data. In quantitative research, this typically involves statistical techniques to test hypotheses, examine relationships, or identify patterns, while in qualitative research, the focus is on identifying themes, patterns, or meanings within the data - with mixed methods research combining both approaches to provide a broader understanding. Although it can be tempting to leave analysis decisions until later, it is important to start thinking about them early so that you can be sure to obtain the data you need.
Where to find out more
If you would like more information about research methods, you might be interested in checking out one or both of the Library’s Quantitative methods and Qualitative and mixed methods online modules. In addition, you can also access SAGE Research Methods for a wide range of books, articles and tools to help you explore different approaches in more depth.
Please make any anonymous comments/ feedback, or suggestions for further posts at this link. If you would like to get in touch, or write a post for the Ideas Hub blog, please email karen.miller@curtin.edu.au.
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