HEALER Research Toolkit 

3. Design the Study and Develop Methods 

Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods 

Which research method is most appropriate to your research project? Do you know the difference between quantitative and qualitative research methods?

• Choosing an appropriate method of research - from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) RDInfo website (www.rdinfo.org.uk)
• Developing your research idea - RDInfo

Survey and Questionnaire Design

Do you know what is the most appropriate survey method for your research project? What method will give you the most useful data for the project you are working on? TheResearch Methods Knowledge Base has many useful sections on social research methods including: Survey Research

Do you know how to design a questionnaire for survey research?

• A Guide to the Design of Questionnaires - RDInfo
• Questionnaire Design and Surveys Sampling - by Professor Hossein Arsham, University of Baltimore

Statistical Issues

Are you familiar with the statistics you may need to use? If not, consider enrolling on a suitable course.  NIHR's RDLearning, your local RDS, R&D Office or Higher Education Institution should be able to assist you in finding a relevant course. Other tools and guidance:

• Statistics Guide for Research Grant Applicants - St George's, University of London
• Online Statistics Textbook- from Statsoft.com
• Statistical Sampling Terms - Research Methods Knowledge Base
• Statistics glossary, from the School of Psychology, St. Andrews University
• Comprehensive bibliography of medical statistics textbooks from 'Medical Statistics at a Glance' (Blackwell Publishing)

Sampling

What method of sampling will give you the most useful data for the project you are working on?

• A Practical Guide to Sampling - from the National Audit Office
• Discussion on the distinction betweenProbability and Nonprobability sampling methods on the Research Methods Knowledge Base

Participant Involvement

Consider the effect of your research on the participant.

• Does the design methodologies pose practical or even ethical problems for those taking part?
• Engage with users whilst designing your study to ensure your study works well in the real world. Engagement should
• Be as early as possible in the process
• Could be in the form of a small focus group, users on your study design team or speaking to a relevant patient support or other group.
• UK Clinical Research Networks often have access to local and national user involvement groups and may be able to help .
• User Involvement section - RDInfo

Intellectual Property

What is 'Intellectual Property' and what does it mean to a researcher?

• IP Guidance- from the NHS National Innovation Centre
• Framework and Guidance on the Management of Intellectual Property- The Department of Health