Research methods and evidence-based practice

Health promotion and public health practice is underpinned by the evidence that is produced by rigorous research. This chapter explains some of the important factors to consider when planning to undertake research and includes a useful glossary of research terms. It defines types of research, such as primary, secondary, empirical and theoretical, and the concepts positivism and interpretivism. The chapter guides the reader through how and where to search for online literature and assess its quality and explains how a literature review supports the rationale for a research study. It explains how research methods can be defined as quantitative or qualitative methodologies and outlines five qualitative methodologies: ethnography, narrative research, phenomenology, grounded theory and case study. The chapter discusses questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, observation and documentary analysis, with the main advantages and disadvantages of each method. The chapter describes four types of research samples: convenience, random or probability, strategic and snowball, and includes guidance on recruitment. It explains how researchers need to consider the validity and reliability of their research and highlights the important features of ethical research practice that must permeate the whole research process.