Research Onion

Peeling the Research Onion's Layers

Introduction: 

The multi-layered framework known as the "research onion" aids in the conceptualization and planning of research initiatives. It was created by Saunders et al. (2009) and offers a systematic method for carrying out research, with each layer reflecting a particular stage of the procedure. 

A concise 6-layer version of the research onion. Here's a brief breakdown of these layers:

Research Philosophy: 

Defining the underlying assumptions and beliefs that your study is founded on is part of this layer. Positivism holds that reality can be observed and measured objectively, interpretivism holds that reality is molded by individual viewpoints and environment, and pragmatism holds that reality is a combination of both.

Research Approaches: 

This layer is centered on the more general methodological strategy you'll utilize for your research. It covers decisions like whether your study will be predominantly qualitative or quantitative, as well as inductive (beginning with observations to generate theory) and deductive (testing existing theory).


Research Strategies: 

You get to pick your research strategy here. Experiments (manipulating variables to see results), action research (intervening in real-world situations), and case studies (deep exploration of a particular incident) are a few examples of research methodologies.


Choices: 

This layer deals with how you will conduct your study, including whether you'll use a single method (mono method), a blend of qualitative and quantitative methods (mixed-method), or a variety of ways (multi-method).


Time Horizons: 

You take into account the timing of data collection in this layer. You will choose whether to perform longitudinal research (data acquired over time at many intervals) or cross-sectional study (data obtained at a single point in time).


Techniques and Procedures: 

The last layer of your research covers the practical elements, such as data collection strategies (surveys, interviews, observations), data analysis methods (thematic analysis, regression analysis), and sampling approaches (convenience sampling, stratified sampling).

Let's break down the research onion and provide clear explanations and examples to make it easier for you to understand.

Research Philosophy: 

It outlines the essential ideas and attitudes that underpin your research and serves as the core of the research onion.

Example: 

Adopting a positivist worldview means you accept the existence of an objective truth that can be quantified and witnessed.

Research Approach: 

It  focuses on the method you select for gathering and analyzing data.

Example: 

While an inductive technique starts with data collecting and develops theory from observations, a deductive approach entails testing preexisting theories or hypotheses.

Research Strategy: 

Here, you decide on the general strategy for achieving your research goals.

 Example: 

Research methods include case studies, surveys, experiments, and content analyses, each of which is appropriate for a particular research subject.

Time Horizon: 

It has to do with how long you plan to perform your research. 

Example: 

While longitudinal research collects data over a lengthy period of time to track changes, cross-sectional research gets data at a single point in time.

Data Collection Methods: 

The methods used to collect data are covered in this layer. 

Example:

Common methods for gathering data include observations, surveys, interviews, and document analysis.

Data Analysis Techniques: 

It has to do with the strategies you'll employ to interpret the information gathered.

Example: 

Thematic analysis can be used to evaluate qualitative data, whilst regression analysis can be used to analyze quantitative data.

Sampling Strategy: 

Deciding how you'll select study participants or data items. 

Example: 

Convenience sampling chooses the subjects that are easiest to obtain, whereas stratified selection ensures representation from many categories.

Data Collection Instruments: 

The tools and instruments used to collect data. 

Example: 

Sensors, surveys, interviews, and questionnaires can all be used as data collection tools..

Data Analysis Tools: 

The program(s) or instruments used for interpreting and analyzing data. 

Example: 

Depending on the type of data you have, common data analysis tools include SPSS, NVivo, and Excel.

Ethical Considerations:

Discussing your research's ethical considerations, such as informed consent and confidentiality.

Example: 

Important ethical considerations in a medical study include gaining patients' informed consent and protecting the privacy of their data.

Conclusion: 

For creating and carrying out effective research initiatives, it is crucial to comprehend the layers of the research onion. Researchers may make sure their investigations are well-founded, methodologically sound, and ethically done by removing each layer one at a time. This paradigm can help produce more productive and significant research findings.