1.  The Scientific Method

*All investigations depend upon a sound theoretical foundation with hypotheses based on accurate and objective observations and experiments performed using standard procedures.

Introduction to the Scientific Method -  provides guidance by defining the scientific method research process, as well as explaining how to test hypotheses, how to find common mistakes in the application of the scientific method, and how to determine what circumstances will yield successful results under the scientific method.

2.  Research Methods

*Conducting research consists of many steps such as formulating a question, reviewing existing literature to place the question within theoretical context, choosing an appropriate research design, developing an assessment instrument, interpreting data, and reporting results.

Knowledge Base: An Online Research Methods Textbook  -  a detailed description of each of the research process components as well as thought-provoking higher-level questions that bring specific issues that arise throughout the research process into focus.

3.  Qualitative Research

*The successful collection and evaluation of components such as non-numeric data like field notes, videotaped interviews, student essays, and "fill in the blank" responses on questionnaires.

Research Advisor: Qualitative Research  -  provides access to links that provide tools that evaluate qualitative research designs and critique research publications, conferences, and discussion groups.

4.  Quantitative Research

*Requires knowing different types of statistical and evaluation methods in order to create an appropriate instrument for the task and to interpret the data correctly.  Questions regarding sample sizes and types of tests must be considered.

Introduction to Quantitative Methods  - provides well-written discussions of topics such as correlation, regression, and statistical inference, as well as informative articles that provide important guidance as to how to avoid errors in methodology and interpretation.

5.  Educational Measurement

*Assessing students' abilities and measuring their progress by considering what type of tests to use, how to construct the test questions, how to assign grades, etc.

ERIC Clearinghouse on Assessment and Evaluation Test Locator   -  offers an extensive testing materials searchable database with more than 10,000 templates of tests and research instruments.  Also provides tips as to how to select appropriate tests and ways to locate publishers of educational exams.

6.  Statistical Methods and Resources

*Data analysis is the difference between quantitative and qualitative research  as both types rely on statistical methods of calculation, therefore correct methods of calculation and interpretation of data must be used to yield accurate results.

UCLA Statistics Page  -  contains links to many methods of calculation and interpretation that will yield accurate results such as online statistical textbooks, case studies, data sets, statistical calculators, related academic journals, and even statistics consulting.

7.  Evaluation Methods

*Determining which evaluation method is best to employ depends on the goals of the study.

CRESST - National Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards, and Assessment  -  offers comprehesive materials on a variety of assessment types and a large compilation of research outlines, publications, and reports regarding assessment.