forskningsstudie

A fors­kningsstudie is a systematic investigation designed to answer a specific question, test a hypothesis, or generate new knowledge. In Norwegian and other Nordic contexts, the term denotes an organized inquiry that uses explicit methods to collect and analyze data. A research study typically follows a protocol outlining its objectives, design, population, data collection methods, and analysis plan, and it may be part of a larger project or a degree assignment.

Process and components: A study begins with a research question and a literature review, followed by a chosen study design and operational definitions. If human participants are involved, ethical approval and informed consent are usually required. Data are collected, analyzed using appropriate methods, and findings are interpreted in light of existing evidence. Many studies are preregistered or registered in a public database, and researchers adhere to data management and privacy standards.

Study designs and types: Quantitative designs include experiments, cross-sectional and longitudinal observational studies, and cohort studies. Qualitative designs encompass interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic methods. Mixed-methods combine quantitative and qualitative elements. Examples range from randomized controlled trials testing interventions to observational cohort studies and qualitative explorations of experiences or perceptions.

Quality, limitations, and ethics: Credible studies address validity, reliability, bias, and confounding, and include considerations of sample size and statistical power. Limitations such as non-representativeness or missing data affect interpretation and generalizability. Ethics cover participant welfare, confidentiality, and responsible reporting of results.

Dissemination: Findings are communicated through peer-reviewed journals, theses, reports, or conference presentations, with emphasis on transparency, reproducibility, and appropriate disclosure of limitations and conflicts of interest.