Compare and contrast research method Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Compare and contrast method - Research Paper Example There are over twenty different types of research methods, but the ones discussed in this paper include focus group method, ethnography methods, in-depth interview, participant observation methods, action research methods, and bibliographic method. Reconciliation Focus Group Methods Focus group is a type of group interview that focuses on communication between interviewees to generate data. Unlike group interviews that are often used to collect data from several individuals simultaneously, focus group usually involves group interaction as part of the method. This implies that a researcher does not ask each person to respond to a question in turn, but encourages people to ask each other question, exchange ideas, comment on other people’s perception and experiences (Chilisa, 2011). This research method is valid for exploring persons’ experiences and knowledge. The focus group method is based on the idea that group interactions can help people to clarify and explore their views and experiences in a manner that would not have been possible with a one-on-one interview (Liamputtong, 2011). The questionnaires used in focus group method have a series of open ended questions and encourages interviewees to answer the questions in their own styles, and even generate further questions and pursue their own priorities. Focus group method helps researchers to include the different forms of communication that people use in their day to day interaction, including arguing, jokes, teasing, and anecdotes. Accessing such forms of communication is significant because the interviewees’ attitudes and knowledge are not restricted in reasoned responses to present the questions (Faherty, 2009). This is what distinguishes focus group methods from other forms of qualitative research methods. Its other advantages include: it does not discriminate against persons who cannot write and read; it encourages participation from individuals who are reluctant to be interviewed a nd encourages participation from persons who feels that they have nothing to say (Faherty, 2009). The downside of this method is that articulation of group norms may derails individual voices of dissent. Additionally, the presence of a group may also compromise the confidentiality of the research process. In the business field, focus group methods are useful when conducting studies that focus on empowering employees. The employees are allowed to share their ideas and present a report about their findings. The results obtained are then used to implement that change required, which is believed to favor all employees (Ozerdem, 2010). Ethnography Ethnography is the study of social behaviors, perceptions and interactions, which occur in organizations, communities, groups, and teams. It primarily focuses on providing rich and holistic insights into an individual’s actions and perceptions, including the nature of the location they occupy, through the collection of detailed interview s and observations (Scott-Jones & Watt, 2010). Ethnographers typically collect participants’ observations, and encourage direct involvement and engagement with the samples they are studying. During research processes, ethnographers usually use conversational and informal interviews that enable them to probe and discuss emerging issues, or pose questions about unusual events, in a