Analysis of Research Methodology in Education Management: The Foundation for Successful Research
Isyrah Liya Shadriya/ Student, FTK UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung
In the academic world, research is at the heart of scientific development. Through research, knowledge is not only tested, but also expanded in a systematic, measurable, and accountable manner. In general, modern research is heavily influenced by two major paradigms, namely positivism, which gave rise to quantitative research, and constructivism, which underpins qualitative research.
First, the positivistic paradigm explains that research must be conducted scientifically by adhering to objective, empirical, and measurable principles. From this paradigm, a quantitative approach was born, based on the following basic assumptions: objectivity, generalization, and causality. Objectivity requires researchers to be neutral and reduce bias. Generalization allows research results to be extended from the sample to a broader population, while causality seeks to explain the cause-and-effect relationship between variables.
Second. In practice, quantitative research is closely related to theory. Theory serves as a conceptual framework that gives rise to hypotheses---temporary assumptions about the relationship between variables. These hypotheses are tested using research instruments that convert abstract concepts into measurable indicators. Valid and reliable instruments will determine the quality of the research results. Quantitative methods often use experiments, surveys, or ex post facto approaches to examine the relationship between variables. The analysis is also based on statistics, both descriptive and inferential, with the aim of testing hypotheses to produce generalizations. The advantages of quantitative research lie in its objectivity, replicability, and ability to produce generalizations. However, it also has limitations because it often ignores context, fails to explore the meaning of phenomena in depth, and is highly dependent on instruments.
Third. On the other hand, qualitative research is an approach that emphasizes subjectivity, context, and researcher involvement. The qualitative paradigm stems from the belief that social reality is pluralistic, contextual, and constructed through interaction and interpretation. A distinctive feature of qualitative research is its focus on the meaning of participants and understanding the journey of a phenomenon, rather than just numbers or variables.
Data collection methods in qualitative research tend to be flexible and naturalistic, for example through in-depth interviews, participant observation, or document analysis. Validity in qualitative research is better known as credibility, which is the extent to which the research results truly reflect the reality of the participants. In addition, there is also the concept of transferability, which measures the extent to which research results can be applied to similar contexts.
Fourth. In practice, both quantitative and qualitative research have their own advantages and limitations. Quantitative research is strong in objectivity and generalization, while qualitative research excels in depth of understanding and context. However, the development of science demands a more adaptive approach. This is where mixed method research becomes the middle ground. This approach combines the advantages of both quantitative and qualitative research: it produces valid empirical data while providing a deep understanding of the context. Therefore, choosing a research paradigm should not be merely a matter of method, but rather a strategy to address research needs more comprehensively. Ultimately, quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods all play an important role in enriching knowledge and ensuring that research remains relevant to the dynamics of social life.
Therefore, Quantitative research is based on the positivistic paradigm with characteristics of objectivity, measurability, and a focus on generalization and causal relationships between variables . Qualitative research emphasizes subjectivity, context, and understanding the meaning of phenomena through in-depth interaction with participants. Both approaches have their own strengths and limitations. Therefore, the use of mixed method research is a strategic alternative to obtain a more comprehensive understanding, thereby enriching the scientific quality of the research.
This work is based on the Teaching Module Part 3: Foundations of Educational Management Research Methodology by Prof. Dr. H. Ahmad Rusdiana, Drs., MM.
