You should know the “Research Onion” term if you have research skills and methods. This term was advanced by Saunders et al. in 2007. But what is the exact implication of this term? This article will break up Saunder’s Research Onion into small and digestible pieces for easy understanding.
What is a Research Onion?
The Research Onion is a research model for the different layers or stages. This is an illustrative model by Saunders, Lewis, and Thorn hill. They describe this model in their book “Research Methods for Business Students”. Now, this model has a vast approach to social science research.
The Name “Research Onion”?
As an onion has multiple layers, the Research Onion has multiple layers to reach the core of the research project.
Significance of Research Onion:
This research model helps to understand the complex process. Research Onion obeys a multidimensional structure which builds upon careful planning and consideration.
What are the different layers of Research Onion?
The different layers of Research Onion are:
Onion Layer 1: Research Philosophy
The first cover of Research Onion is Research Philosophy. It deals with the researcher’s beliefs and assumptions about reality and knowledge of nature. It can be divided into three main research philosophies:
- Positivism
- Interpretivism
- Critical theory
1) Positivism:
It assumes that there is a measurable objective that can be studied. Positivist researchers believe that the world is a stable and predictable place. Social phenomena studies can be made using quantitative methods. Positivism research seeks to establish cause-and-effect relationships through statistical analysis and experimentation.
Example:
Suppose a researcher wants to investigate the relationship between social media use and mental health. The researcher collects data from individuals and uses statistical analysis. He came to know that there is a significant correlation between social media use and mental health. The researcher uses a positivist approach in this study. He assumes that social media use and mental health are measurable. So, the objectives can evaluate by using quantitative methods.
2) Interpretivism:
It assumes that reality is subjective and individuals construct it in their social context. Interpretivist researchers believe that social phenomena study is best through qualitative methods. These methods must understand the subjective experiences of individuals. Interpretivism research seeks to understand the meanings and interpretations of social phenomena.
Example:
Suppose a researcher investigates the effect of unemployment. The researcher collects data from unemployed individuals. He analyses the data qualitatively to understand the subjective experiences of unemployment.
3) Critical Theory:
It assumes that power relations and social inequalities mould social reality. Critical theorists seek power structures and promote social justice. They seek to understand power operates in society.
Example:
Suppose a researcher investigates the gender stereotypes’ impact on women’s careers. The researcher may assume that gender stereotypes construct and reinforced through power structures. He may use a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data. He then analysed to check the impact of gender on women’s career advancement.
Onion Layer 2: Research Approach
The second layer of Research Onion is Research Approach. This layer concerns the general approach to conducting the research. It includes
- Deductive Approach
- Inductive Approach
- Qualitative Research
- Quantitative Research
- Mixed-methods approach
1) Deductive Approach:
The deductive approach starts with a theory or hypothesis and tests empirical observation. Deductive research involves
- Develop a hypothesis
- Testing of hypothesis
- Evaluation of the results
This approach is helpful in quantitative research and tests a specific theory or hypothesis.
2) Inductive Approach:
The inductive approach starts with empirical observation and develops a theory or hypothesis. Inductive research involves collecting data and analysis. Then, construct a theory or hypothesis from the findings. This approach allows qualitative research and generates new theories or hypotheses.
3) Qualitative Research:
Qualitative research seeks to understand the subjective experiences of social phenomena. Qualitative research collects data through methods (interviews, focus groups, and observations). Data analysis by different methods (content analysis, discourse analysis, and grounded theory).
4) Quantitative Research:
Quantitative research measures and analyse social phenomena through statistical methods. Quantitative research collects data through methods (surveys, experiments, and observations). The analysis is done by methods (statistical analysis).
5) Mixed-Methods Approach:
This is a research approach that combines both qualitative and quantitative methods. This helps gain more comprehensive social phenomena. This research involves collecting and analysing data through qualitative and quantitative methods. Then, integrate the findings and conclusions.
Onion Layer 3: Research Strategy
The third layer of Research Onion is Research Strategy. This layer concerns the overall plan or approaches to answer the research question. It includes the choice of
- Case study
- Experiment
- Survey
- Ethnography
- Action research
1) Case Study:
A case study involves an in-depth investigation of a single or a few cases. Case studies understand complex social phenomena and examine unique or unusual cases. These studies could be of two types; Quantitative or Qualitative.
Example:
A researcher investigates the effects of a particular policy on a specific community. The researcher conducts a case study in a few communities affected by the policy. He interviewed the residents and stakeholders and analysed relevant documents. He interprets and observes the implementation of the policy.
2) Experiment:
An experiment involves manipulating and testing the effect of one or more variables. Experiments establish cause-and-effect relationships. Experiments can be performed in a laboratory or a natural setting.
Example:
A researcher investigates the effect of a new drug on blood pressure. The researcher can experiment by randomly assigning a treatment or control group. The treatment group receives the new drug, while the control group receives a placebo. He measures the difference in blood pressure to determine the drug’s effect.
3) Survey:
A survey involves the collection of data through questionnaires or interviews. Surveys collect data from individuals and help understand the social phenomenon. Surveys can conduct online, through the mail, or in person.
Example:
A researcher investigates the attitudes of college students towards online learning. The researcher surveys by questionnaire. The researcher then analyses the data to determine the attitudes of the students.
4) Ethnography:
Ethnography involves immersing oneself in a particular culture or social setting. It helps to gain an in-depth understanding of the social phenomenon. Ethnography involves collecting data through observations and interviews.
Example:
A researcher investigates the culture of a specific workplace. The researcher conducts ethnography and observes the interactions between the employees. He conducts interviews with the employees. The analysis is done with relevant documents such as company policies and procedures.
5) Action Research:
Action research involves a cyclical process of
- Planning
- Acting
- Observing
- Reflecting
Action research addresses practical problems and improves organisational practices. So, Action research involves collaboration between the researcher and the stakeholders.
Example:
A researcher investigates a new training effect for teachers. The researcher conducts action research to design the training program. He implements the program and observes the outcomes. He then analyses the effectiveness of the program. The researcher uses the findings to improve the training program.
Onion Layer 4: Time horizon
The fourth layer is Time Horizon. This layer concerns the timeframe of the exhaustive research. It includes the choice of a
- Cross-sectional Design
- Longitudinal Design
- Retrospective Design
1) Cross-Sectional Design:
A cross-sectional design collects data from individuals at a single time. This Design collects data on a particular social phenomenon at a specific time.
Example:
A researcher investigates consumers’ attitudes towards a new product. The researcher collects consumer data at a specific time (survey).
2) Longitudinal Design:
A longitudinal design collects data from individuals over an extended period. Longitudinal designs examine changes in a particular social phenomenon over time.
Example:
A researcher investigates new educational program strengths on students. The researcher conducts a longitudinal design over several years. He made interpretations through standardised test scores or grade point averages.
3) Retrospective Design:
A retrospective design collects data from individuals about past experiences. Retrospective designs examine historical trends and collect social phenomenon data.
Example:
A researcher investigates the prevalence of smoking among older adults. The researcher conducts a retrospective design and collects older adults’ data about smoking habits.
Each Design has its strengths and weaknesses. The choice depends on the research question and the resources available.
Onion Layer 5: Data Collection
The fifth layer of the Research Onion is Data Collection. This layer of Research Onion uses different methods to collect data for the research project. It includes the choice of research instruments (interviews, focus groups, and observation).
1) Interviews:
Interviews involve asking individuals to respond to questions face-to-face. Interviews should be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured.
Example:
A researcher investigates the experiences of immigrant individuals. The researcher conducted interviews to gather data on experiences and challenges.
2) Focus Groups:
Focus groups bring a group of individuals together to discuss a particular topic. The facilitator asks questions and encourages participants to share their perspectives.
Example:
A researcher investigates the parents’ attitudes towards a new educational program. The researcher conducts a focus group to gather attitudes and opinions data.
3) Observation:
Observation involves watching and recording the behaviour of individuals. Observation is structured or unstructured and can be done through video recordings.
Example:
A researcher investigates a child’s behaviour in a day-care setting. The researcher conducted structured observation and a checklist of behaviours. He looks for and records the behaviour over a while.
Onion Layer 6: Data Analysis
The sixth layer of the Research Onion is Data Analysis. This layer analyses the data for the research project. It includes the choice of statistical techniques and software tools for data analysis.
1) Descriptive Analysis:
The descriptive analysis involves the calculation of summary statistics. It includes mean, median, and standard deviations to describe the characteristics of the data.
Example:
A researcher investigates the customers’ average age at a particular store. The descriptive analysis calculates the mean and standard deviation of the customers’ ages.
2) Inferential Analysis:
The inferential analysis involves statistical tests and makes inferences based on the sample data.
Example:
A researcher investigates the difference in the average income of men and women in a particular city. Inferential analysis conducts a t-test to determine a significant difference in the means of the two groups.
3) Content Analysis:
Content analysis involves the systematic examination of written or visual materials. They help identify patterns, themes, and relationships.
Example:
A researcher investigates gender roles in a particular television show. The content analysis uses to analyse the dialogue. The behaviour of the characters must identify patterns and themes to gender roles.
4) Discourse Analysis:
Discourse analysis involves spoken or written language to identify means and social constructs.
Example:
A researcher investigates politicians’ messages during a political campaign. Discourse analysis analyses the language and identifies underlying themes and social constructs.
Each data analysis has its strengths and weaknesses. The choice of a particular method depends on the
- Research question
- Nature of the data
- Resources available
Conclusion:
Research Onion is a useful framework for understanding the different layers of the research process. By considering each layer, researchers develop comprehensive and rigorous research. It helps a well-grounded project and addresses the research question. Each layer of Research Onion builds upon the previous one and provides a strong foundation for the research project. The Research Onion framework ensures research is well-designed and well-executed. It contributes to the body of knowledge in their field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1) What is Research Onion?
Research Onion is a framework to guide researchers through the research process. It identifies the different layers and aspects of the research project. The Research Onion includes six layers: Research Philosophy, Research Approach, Research Strategy, Time Horizon, Data Collection, and Data Analysis.
2) Why is it called a Research Onion?
The framework is an “onion” because each layer builds upon the previous one. It creates a strong foundation for the overall research project. Researchers must work through each layer of the framework, like peeling back the layers of an onion. They should try to reach the core of their research question.
3) What is the purpose of the Research Philosophy layer?
The Research Philosophy layer involves identifying the researcher’s underlying assumptions. It guides the research project. It helps researchers to choose the appropriate research approach and methods. They will align with their philosophical beliefs.
4) What is the purpose of the Research Approach layer?
The Research Approach layer involves conducting research, such as positivist, interpretive, or critical. It helps researchers to determine the appropriate collection methods and analyse data.
5) What is the purpose of the Research Strategy layer?
The Research Strategy layer involves selecting the specific methods to gather data, such as surveys and interviews. It helps researchers to develop a plan for data collection. It helps to determine the research question and approach.
6) What is the purpose of the Time Horizon layer?
The Time Horizon layer involves deciding on the time frame of the research. It includes cross-sectional or longitudinal designs. It helps researchers to determine the appropriate collection methods. So, It analyses the data of their research.
7) What is the purpose of the Data Collection layer?
The Data Collection layer involves selecting the specific methods to collect data. It helps researchers develop a plan for collecting appropriate data for their research question.
8) What is the purpose of the Data Analysis layer?
The Data Analysis layer involves selecting the appropriate methods to analyse data. It includes descriptive, inferential, content, or discourse analyses. It helps researchers to make sense of the data. Draw conclusions that are appropriate for their research question and approach.
9) How can the Research Onion framework be used in research?
The Research Onion framework works as a guide to developing a rigorous research project. It should address the research question. By considering each framework layer, researchers ensure comprehensive and rigorous research. It must contribute meaningfully to the body of knowledge in its field.
About Author
George Morris is a professional Business Analyst from Derbyshire. He has completed his Business Administration from the University of Manchester. Morris is currently living in the UK and working as a Business Dissertation Writer at one of the top dissertation writing services. He loves to write on different business and economic trends in the world.