- What we want to study (the research question).
- How do we want to study it (the design).
- Whom we want to study (the case cases or sample).
- How best acquire information (the data-collection techniques).
- How best to analyze or interpret the information that we acquire (the data analysis).
- How and with whom to share are findings (the dissemination process).
- How to confirm our findings (the verification process).
To accomplish these tasks researchers have devised a number of organizing frameworks.
Think of an organizing framework as a road map. A road map established for a traveler and possibilities for getting from one location to another. Although a map does not specify the exact route to follow would you ever attempt to drive across the country without a map? Probability not! In the same sense a researcher should not conduct a research project without an organizing framework. This framework establishes the researcher question. Just as a map allows a traveler to make critical decisions regarding his route, an organizing framework allows a researcher to make important decisions that may greatly impact the nature of the research study. Therefore, before conducting a research study, a researcher must be familiar with the most significant organizing frameworks.