Research

Background

Research is a formal process of inquiry, which aims to discover new information. There are several different types of research activities. The two most common approaches to doing original research are through the use of quantitative or qualitative methodologies. Quantitative research is an investigation aimed at discovering new truths about reality, testing hypotheses against theories, and measuring relationships between variables (Daniels et al., 2021a). Quantitative methodology is often characterized by its investigation of numbers as data and through its statistical analysis (Daniels et al., 2021a). Qualitative research explores, understands, or deconstructs the experiences of people, places, or things (Daniels et al., 2021a). Qualitative methodology commonly utilizes interview, observation, or document review for data collection and is characterized by its use of content, narrative, and thematic coding (Daniels et al., 2021a).

In addition to research, there are several other ways to engage in formal inquiry. For instance, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and program evaluation are other forms of inquiry that involve examining practices or programs with the goal of improving those practices. Evidence-based practice (EBP) strives to solve problems in the health care setting by integrating an examination of current evidence on the topic, patient perspective and values, and clinical expertise (Sackett et al., 1996). EBP is used to meet standards of care and to inform clinical decision-making (Daniels et al., 2021a). Quality improvement (QI) projects are cycles of evaluation and intervention aimed at improving patient care, feasibility, and safety in an organization (Shirey et al., 2011). Program evaluation is a method of synthesizing information to look at the efficacy of programs and policies (Chen, 2015). Each of these distinct inquiry formats provide guidance for researchers to make improvements grounded in evidence.