Overview
Conducting research congruency is used to determine rigor and validity. Consistency is the biggest consideration that can determine consistency between the data collection methodologies on the other elements that include the problem, purpose, research questions, and design. The methods should be logically executed in accordance with research questions, which explain what should be known to work with the purpose and problem (Vogt et al., 2012). For instance, when we are asked concerning a causal relationship, an experimental design is obligatory, making it necessary to have standardized, quantifiable data. On the other hand, when the aim is to study a complex phenomenon, then qualitative methods, such as in-depth interviews, should be applied. This will make sure that the evidence collected focuses on the objectives of the study.
Research knowledge and skills obtained will help me significantly improve my ability to become an agent of positive social change (Walden University, 2015). Such scientific knowledge helps me recognize key social problems and develop a study that generates reliable, evidence-based, and practical results. With an understanding of methodology, I will be able to use the most tapped design when exploring a social issue, so that the resulting recommendations are credible and convincing to practitioners. It is essential to shift the view of a problem to the components of rigorous investigation of it (Walden University, 2015). Strict research offers the needed support and transparency to implement changes that lead to meaningful, net-positive change to society.
As a tangible example of this application, one can examine the effectiveness of a new mental health intervention among veterans. I have already known enough about quasi-experimental design and the correct data collection (i.e., pre- and post-test standardized measures) to be able to credibly establish its success. The quantitative data obtained can be clearly and empirically supported by the alignment between the research questions (e.g., "Does the intervention reduce symptoms of PTSD?") and the data collection. This strong evidence is thereafter utilized to promote policy modifications or funding increases of the effective intervention to make the research as useful and impactful as possible.
References
Vogt, W. P., Gardner, D. C., & Haeffele, L. M. (2012). When to use what research design. Guilford Press. https://www.guilford.com/books/When-to-Use-What-Research-Design/Vogt-Gardner-Haeffele/Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2015). Social change. Retrieved from http://www.waldenu.edu/about/social-changeLinks to an external site.