Framing a research design in policy-making
Challenges can be overcome by ensuring viable planning and executing the same using an adaptive approach
In the space of the public policy-making process designing research is important since evidence-based decisions help in formulating effective public policies. In India, public policies are made by a varied group of stakeholders, including the government, civil society organisations (CSOs) and private sectors. A well-structured research design outlines the methodology, data collection techniques and analysis approaches that help policymakers address specific societal challenges.
Steps to Design an Effective Research Framework
Define the problem that needs to be addressed. It can include:
- Scope/Extent of the issue
- Stakeholders affected by the same
- The purpose of political intervention
- Identify focused objectives
- Understand what needs to be done
- Define objectives that can be achieved and time-bound
- Develop goals that relate to policy issues
Develop specific research questions. Include questions to address:
- Policy Issues
- Identify the problems
- Identify Data Needs and Sources
- What data is required/important?
- Does it address/answer the research questions?
- Collect data through surveys, observations or interviews (Primary data)
- Use data from reports and databases (Secondary data)
- Integrate data from Government departments, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs)
- Use primary questions to address policy issues
- Sub-questions to address the complexity of the problem
- Select an Appropriate Research Methodology
- Develop questions that will meet the research objectives
- Qualitative methods will address complex issues (interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Case Studies to name a few)
- Quantitative Methods to measure trends, and statistical analysis (e.g., surveys, experiments, econometric models)
- Mixed Methods by combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches for a more holistic view
Apart from the above, a clear strategy for sampling must be developed to ensure that the sample is sufficient and the techniques appropriate. For example, if the topic is education, the likely sample will include students, parents and teachers from a spectrum of geographical regions and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Care should be taken to use appropriate methods and tools to ensure the reliability and authenticity of data. The data gathered will need to be analysed to ensure that the insights are appropriate and meet the research objectives.
Another important aspect is ethical considerations where one needs to follow the established guidelines and respect the rights of the stakeholders participating in the survey. One needs to bear in mind that the researcher requires the consent of the participants and maintains confidentiality concerning the information gathered.
A research design may encounter challenges. What is important is to identify the same and try and find probable solutions by looking at gaps in data. Errors in sampling size or time constraints.
Finally, a realistic tile line with clear tasks which can be broken into different stages, appropriate resources who will know their roles and responsibilities and have a Plan B in case of any challenges.
Tips
The research Design should have:
- Overall plan, structure
- Ensure that descriptive, experimental and quasi-experimental designs are adapted
- Remember to include type of data, what needs to be included in research aims and questions
Time frame and appropriate resources.
In short, framing a research design should be carefully thought out and it should contribute knowledge to policy making. A systematic approach and a rigorous methodology will ensure accuracy and validity.
Challenges can be overcome by ensuring viable planning and executing the same using an adaptive approach. Identifying challenges at an early stage is pertinent and should be discussed with Experts. Adapting Best Practices serves as a great help in creating a robust research design which leads to meaningful and valid research outcomes.
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