Different forms of research

People will often quote different forms of research, each have common characteristics and as a result pearls and pitfalls to be aware of. In this section we run through those different forms which will act as a framework to build an understanding of critical appraisal on.

A study will look to answer a question or a hypothesis.

The following determine the type of study employed;

• The nature of the question
• The resources that the authors have to conduct the study

A question or hypothesis should be supported or based on plausible thinking and based around a patient related outcome. Research only needs to be performed when the question hasn’t been answered satisfactorily already.

This podcast covers

• Observational descriptive research
• Observational analytical research
• Experimental research
• Qualitative research

Once you’ve listened help consolidate the topics covered with the questions below.