Research methods

There are four types of research methods:

• Qualitative
• Quantitative
• Primary
• Secondary

Qualitative research - It is used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. It provides insights into the problem or helps to develop ideas or hypotheses for potential quantitative research. Qualitative Research is also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into the problem. Qualitative data collection methods vary using unstructured or semi-structured techniques. Some common methods include focus groups (group discussions), individual interviews, and participation/observations. The sample size is typically small, and respondents are selected to fulfill a given quota.

Quantitative research - This can be used to quantify the problem by way of generating numerical data or data that can be transformed into useable statistics. It is used to quantify attitudes, opinions, behaviors, and other defined variables – and generalize results from a larger sample population. Quantitative Research uses measurable data to formulate facts and uncover patterns in research. Quantitative data collection methods are much more structured than Qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data collection methods include various forms of surveys –online surveys, face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, longitudinal studies, website interceptors,online polls, and systematic observations.

Primary research - This is Experiments, investigations, or tests carried out to acquire data first-hand, rather than being gathered from published sources. There are variety of type of research I could use such as Interviews, Questionnaires, Observations, Surveys, Sampling and Focus Groups. The main advantage with primary data is that the individual can choose which method would suit their requirements the best. On the other hand, it is most suitable for an area of small collection of data. 

Secondary research - By far secondary research is the most widely used method for collecting data. This process involves collecting data from either the originator or a distributor of primary research. In other words, you are accessing information already gathered. Some secondary methods include: the Internet, the library, newspapers, magazines, data collection organisations etc. Secondary research is the most common way of collecting data as somebody else has already obtained the information for you. The main thing about this method, is that it is relatively low costing compared to primary research and there is no need to create new information as it is easy to find and get hold of.

For my research, I think the best type of research method out of the four is secondary research. This is because the internet is a huge part of my planning and research and is something I need to create a successful trailer. Not only this but as I have a deadline to meet, the other methods such as primary, will be more time consuming.