Research Methods Literature Review
A literature review on an identified research topic or issue is an important element when conducting a study regardless of whether the study employs qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods research design. The significance of conducting a literature review is attributable to the several functions and roles the review plays in the research process. Literature review is crucial when conducting a study because it’s a means of synthesizing prior research and demonstrating how current research fits into the existing body of evidence on the research issue (USC Libraries, 2017). This paper provides a review of literature on how different research methods can be utilized to conduct research. The discussion will also include a comparison of the paradigms or worldviews that are inherent in the methodology of different research designs. The various categories that will be examined in this paper include non-experimental, quantitative experimental, qualitative, and mixed methods research methodologies.
Topic, Research Question, and Hypothesis
The topic that will form the basis for this literature review on research methods is the role of emotional intelligence in leadership development and understanding leadership. This is an important topic of research because emotional intelligence has emerged as one of the most significant area of social science research in relation to leadership. Since this concept was introduced in the 90’s, it has been integrated in several areas of practical application including the field of leadership. However, there is an increased need to understand the role of this concept in leadership development and understanding the leadership process. An understanding of the role of emotional intelligence in leadership development is crucial towards promoting its smooth integration in the field of leadership as well as enhancing leadership effectiveness.
The research question for this study is, “How does emotional intelligence influence leadership development and understanding of leadership?” This research question will help determine the role of emotional intelligence in leadership through examining whether the concept of emotional intelligence has any positive links to leadership. In this regard, the researcher has identified two research hypotheses that will guide the study as follows:
Hypothesis 1: Emotional Intelligence has a positive association with leadership development.
Hypothesis 2: Emotional...
References
Cameron, R. (2009, August). A Sequential Mixed Model Research Design: Design, Analytical and Display Issues. International Journal of Multiple Research Approaches, 3(2), 140-152.
Hunter, J.E., Jensen, J.L. & Rodgers, R. (2014). The Control Group and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Methods and Measurements in the Social Sciences, 5(1
McCusker, K., & Gunaydin, S. (2015). Research Using Qualitative, Quantitative or Mixed Methods and Choice Based on the Research. Perfusion, 30(7), 537-542.
Salaria, N. (2012, April-June). Meaning of the Term – Descriptive Survey Research Method. International Journal of Transformations in Business Management, 1(6), 1-7.
Strydom, H. (2013). An Evaluation of the Purposes of Research in Social Work. Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, 49(2), 149-164.
USC Libraries (n.d.). The Literature Review. Retrieved online: http://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/literaturereview
Williams, C. (2007, March). Research Methods. Journal of Business & Economic Research, 5(3), 65-72.
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