Secondary Research Methodology Dissertation Example

What is Secondary Research?

Secondary research refers to a research approach that involves utilizing pre-existing data gathered by others. In essence, this form of research entails utilizing information that has already been collected, analyzed, and disseminated by external sources.

On the other hand, primary research involves collecting original data to answer research questions. Secondary research can be quantitative or qualitative and frequently involves utilizing data derived from authoritative sources such as peer-reviewed publications, meta-analyses, or databases and datasets from government or private sector organizations.

How to Conduct Secondary Research?

Conducting research efficiently and effectively for a secondary research methodology dissertation takes five simple steps.

1.    Define and Identify the Research Topic

To initiate your research journey, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand and delineating its scope by formulating pertinent research questions is crucial. One should reflect on the purpose of the research and what is intended to be achieved.

This process can reveal the need for exploratory research to elucidate the reasons behind a phenomenon or to validate a hypothesis. Depending on the research goals, it may be necessary to employ a primary, secondary, or hybrid approach that utilizes both types of research to investigate the identified ideas.

2.    Find Relevant Data Sources and Research Material

To conduct effective secondary research, it is essential to identify pertinent sources of information that align with the research questions. It entails careful consideration of relevant keywords and subject matter to refine the search criteria.

• Thoroughly researching organizations with a proven track record in the area of interest can provide valuable insights into the research topic.
• Knowing competitors and their activities is crucial to comprehensively understanding the research landscape.
• Creating a comprehensive list of potential data sources, information, and people who can contribute to the research can be invaluable in facilitating an effective research process.

Here are five secondary research methodology dissertation examples of data sources one could use to collect information:

1. Academic journals and research papers.
2. Government statistics and reports.
3. Industrial reports and publications.
4. Online databases and archives.
5. Interviews or surveys with subject matter experts or individuals with relevant experiences or knowledge.

3.    Begin Collecting and Synthesizing the Literature

After creating a list of probable data sources, the following step is to start systematically compiling the data. To confirm the authenticity of the data, it can involve opening research journal accounts or setting up meetings with outside research teams.

During the research process, it is crucial to exercise discretion and evaluate the credibility and relevance of the data sources. To this end, it is imperative to scrutinize the data's date, the sources' reliability, and the research methodology employed by third-party researchers. One should adopt a gradual approach and prioritize investigating areas that align with the research objectives as results accrue.

4.    Combine the Data and Evaluate the Results

Once the data has been compiled, engaging in a process of discernment, organization, and consolidation is crucial. Depending on the source and nature of the data, it may require filtering, ordering, or combining to facilitate meaningful analysis. Given the potential variability in data quality and relevance, a reasonable approach to selecting and processing data is essential to ensure its suitability for research.

Subsequently, an exploratory examination of the data sets can reveal underlying trends, patterns, or changes over time. It may entail comparing data sets across different periods to discern temporal shifts or juxtaposing distinct data sets to identify overlaps or correlations.

Throughout this process, it is crucial to maintain a critical stance and assess the degree to which the data is pertinent to the research objectives. That necessitates reflecting on the data's implications, evaluating its relevance, and determining whether it facilitates or impedes attaining the research objectives.

5.    Evaluate the Data and Continue Exploring

Upon completing the data analysis process, evaluating the research's findings in light of its initial questions and objectives is imperative. This entails ascertaining whether the information obtained effectively addresses the research questions or if any gaps necessitate further exploration.

Suppose the results do not sufficiently answer the research questions. In that case, it may be necessary to revisit earlier steps, delve deeper into the subject matter, or consider supplementing the findings with primary research. Updating knowledge and refining findings are integral to presenting a comprehensive and credible research account.