Rannsóknarhönnunar

Rannsóknarhönnunar is an Icelandic term that translates to “research design” in English. It refers to the overall strategy and structure that guide a research project from its initial concept through to data collection, analysis, and reporting. The purpose of a research design is to ensure that the study is methodologically sound, that results are valid and reliable, and that resources are used efficiently.

A well‑crafted research design consists of several core components. First, the research question or hypothesis is clearly defined, establishing the focus of the investigation. Next, the type of study is selected—such as experimental, quasi‑experimental, descriptive, correlational, or qualitative—based on the nature of the inquiry. The design then specifies the sampling strategy, detailing how participants or units are chosen and how the sample relates to the population of interest. Data collection methods—surveys, interviews, observations, archival records, or laboratory measurements—are chosen and described in sufficient detail to allow replication. Finally, the design outlines methods of data analysis and plans for addressing potential threats to internal and external validity, such as biases, confounding variables, and measurement error.

Research designs are divided into branches: quantitative research designs emphasize numerical measurement and statistical inference, whereas qualitative designs prioritize depth of understanding through textual or visual data. Mixed‑methods designs combine elements of both to take advantage of complementary strengths.

The importance of a robust research design lies in its role as a blueprint that directs every phase of the study. By anticipating challenges and clarifying procedures at the outset, researchers can reduce uncertainty, improve the credibility of findings, and facilitate the ethical conduct of the investigation.