The Challenges of Ensuring Scientific Rigor - Essay Example

All research methods basically engage in gathering certain facts through definite methods. All the methods that are used in different research have weaknesses and strengths. For example, if a questionnaire is distributed to research participants, it is not possible for the researcher to make sure that all the respondents understand the questions in the survey in exactly the same way (Packer, 2010). In addition, it is not possible for the researcher to make sure that the respondents use the same language to write their answers even if they all understand the questions in the same way. Furthermore, research studies that are dependent on a single researcher’s observations are limited to the opinions and views or understanding of the researcher. Also, the presence of the lone researcher could have affected the reactions that were observed.

The reliability of qualitative research can still be maintained in spite of these concerns. A coding frame relating to gender, age, or the status of the contributor can be created to characterize each response from a research participant. The research transcripts can then be coded by two or more researchers. It is also vital for the researcher(s) to be careful to specify the background and details of the case study. The researcher(s) should also point out the differences as well as similarities between the case study being researched and other settings of a similar kind. The researcher should also endeavor to illustrate how the research subject contributes to the recognized social theories as well as existing empirical works.