Key Points
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This article provides an overview of research methods. Two broad categories of study design are identified: quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative methods aim to test a hypothesis and give results in numbers or proportions; qualitative methods explore and gain insight into complex issues through the in-depth exploration of behaviour and attitudes.
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A framework is provided to guide researchers in the steps involved in their research.
Key Points
Research in primary dental care
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1
Setting the scene
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2
Developing a research question
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3
Designing your study
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4
Measures
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5
Devising a proposal, obtaining funding and ethical considerations
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6
Data analysis
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7
Writing up your research
Abstract
Earlier articles in this series identified the importance of stating a clear research question as the first step in conducting research in primary dental care. The study design seeks to answer the research question. This article describes different types of study design and their application. A framework of the steps involved in designing each type of study are described, together with the situations in which they could be used. Useful resources and sources of information are provided.
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Williams, A., Bower, E. & Newton, J. Research in primary dental care Part 3: Designing your study. Br Dent J 196, 669–674 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4811343
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4811343
