Introduction to Research Methods in Education

by Keith F. Punch

As a finished product, a piece of empirical research needs to demonstrate both conceptual clarity and a good fit between its different component parts, especially between its questions and its methods.

the questions can be developed first, and the methods aligned; or the research might begin with only a general approach to its topic, and then develop focus in the questions and methods as things proceed; or there might be a mixture of these two, where the researcher cycles backwards and forwards between questions, methods and some initial data.

empirical research is driven by research questions,

Miles and Huberman (1994: 55) point out that developing research questions is a valuable defence against the confusion and overload that is possible in the early stages of research.