Exploring Research Methodology: Paradigms,

By Taufiqur Rahman (1232010140) 5th Semester/D Student of Islamic Education Management Department, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Bachelor Level, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung. 

Introduction: Research methodology and research type are fundamental aspects that determine the quality of research, particularly in the field of educational management. From a paradigm perspective, research can be viewed through two broad approaches: quantitative and qualitative, which then give rise to mixed-methods as a combination of the two. In terms of data analysis, each paradigm has different techniques according to its characteristics. Quantitative uses statistical calculations, while qualitative emphasizes coding and thematic analysis for understanding.

First: Quantitative research is rooted in a positivistic paradigm that emphasizes objectivity, measurement, and generalization. The relationship between theory, hypothesis, and variables forms the basic framework for scientifically grounded research. Research instruments play a crucial role in maintaining data validity and reliability. In terms of analysis, quantitative research uses statistical methods, both descriptive and inferential, to test hypotheses and explain cause-and-effect relationships. The advantage of this approach is its objective and generalizable results, although its limitation lies in the lack of a deeper understanding of the context.

Second: Qualitative research is based on an interpretive and constructivist paradigm. This paradigm assumes that social reality is plural and constructed through interaction. The research focuses on the meaning, process, and experiences of participants. Data collection techniques include interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. Validity in qualitative research is measured through credibility using triangulation and member checking strategies. In terms of data analysis, the qualitative approach uses coding, categorization, and thematic analysis. Its advantage is its ability to provide a deeper understanding of phenomena, but it has limitations in the form of subjectivity and difficulty in generalizing.

Third: Mixed methods are an integrative approach that combines quantitative and qualitative paradigms. This method seeks to bridge the strengths of quantitative data in hypothesis testing and generalization with qualitative data in understanding meaning and context. Data analysis is carried out in a combinatory manner: quantitative data is analyzed statistically, while qualitative data is analyzed through themes and categories. Mixed methods are often chosen in educational management research because they can provide a more complete and comprehensive picture.

Fourth: Research types can be categorized into several forms based on paradigm and data analysis. Quantitative research includes descriptive, comparative, correlational, and experimental research. Qualitative research includes ethnography, phenomenology, case studies, and grounded theory. Meanwhile, mixed-methods research is flexible and combines various research designs as needed. In terms of data analysis, quantitative research uses statistical tools, while qualitative research emphasizes thematic analysis that focuses on meaning. Understanding these various types of research allows researchers to choose the right method to answer their research questions scientifically.

Research methodology and research type, both in terms of paradigm and data analysis, complement each other in forming valid research. Quantitative research emphasizes objective measurement, qualitative research emphasizes meaning, while mixed-methods research combines the two. In terms of analysis, statistics are the hallmark of quantitative research, while coding and themes are the strengths of qualitative research. By understanding the differences and advantages of each, researchers can choose the appropriate methodology and type of research to produce valid knowledge that is both beneficial for the development of educational management.

This article is a review of Part 3 (Foundations of Educational Management Research Methodology. Research Methodology & Types of Research: in Terms of Paradigms and Types of Data Analysis) of the teaching materials for the Management Research Methods course, Lecturer Prof. Dr. H. A Rusdiana, M.M (https://eknows.uinsgd.ac.id/pluginfile.php/1035857/mod_assign/introattachment/0/003-%20Part%20III%20Metodologi%20riset%20dan%20Jenis%20Riset.pdf?forcedownload=1)