Question about dependent variables for Ph.D. research

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by Roscoe, Sep 21, 2003.

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  1. Roscoe

    Roscoe Guest

    I understand that in using a qualitative research method, one's study must focus on dependent variables that have been established through prior research. Where such variales are unknown, a quantitative method is preferred.

    Here's my question:

    There is very little research on my topic and the only source I can locate where dependent variables are noted is a paper presented by a college professor.

    Is an academic paper considered a scholarly source from which I could draw my variables?

    I propose to use the qualitative method for my research.

    Thanks.

    Roscoe
     
  2. Andy Borchers

    Andy Borchers New Member

    Roscoe - a paper presented by a prof is scholarly source, although it probably isn't as strong a source as a journal publication. Did you look at the paper to see if the prof had a review of the literature? His sources, if there are any, may be useful.

    I'd be concerned, however, with a topic for which there is only one source. While you may want to make your mark in the world by developing the topic, it may make your work harder. Some may challenge your lack of literature base.

    A more pragmatic approach may be to choose a topic that has been researched and for which there is literature. In such a case you can work on a more incremental effort. Once you've graduated you can focus on your original topic.

    Regards - Andy



     
  3. Roscoe

    Roscoe Guest

    Thanks, Andy.

    The prof's paper did not have an extensive lit. review. It was primarily based on interviews.

    I should mention that I've found some research that covers some of the six variables I want to investigate; but so far, only the prof's paper has all of the six variables in one study.

    Guess I was thinking that in selecting a group of dependent variables, all of them had to come from one source. If this is not a requirement, I guess I can pull them from other sources (hope I'm making sense).

    What I have found so far is tons of material in popular papers, journals, mags, etc. But little in peer reviewed publications.

    Roscoe
     
  4. Peter E. Tucker

    Peter E. Tucker New Member

    Roscoe

    I have a similar situation to you with my PhD study - lots of newspaper and popular literature but little academic/peer review.

    In many ways, that's GOOD. It means the academic field is relatively clear, and you can jump in with your contribution to the field of study!

    With regard to qualitative research methods, I am not as advanced as you so am not that qualified to offer advice. From what I understand you should be entitled to establish the items you want to test (the variables) from a variety of sources, providing you can justify their relevance to your research.

    Good luck and kind regards
     

  5. Thanks Peter, Andy.

    You guys have been very helpful.

    Roscoe
     

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