Nursing research plays a vital role in advancing knowledge and improving patient care. Researchers employ a variety of methodologies to investigate phenomena relevant to nursing practice. Here, we’ll explore the different classifications of research methodologies commonly used in nursing research.

By Purpose:

• Descriptive Research: This approach aims to describe characteristics, phenomenon, or relationships without manipulation of variables. Examples include case studies, surveys, and ethnographies (Polit & Beck, 2017).
• Correlational Research: This type of research investigates the relationships between variables without establishing cause-and-effect. It explores how changes in one variable might be associated with changes in another (Polit & Beck, 2017).
• Quasi-Experimental Research: Here, researchers can’t randomly assign participants to groups but aim to control for extraneous variables to examine cause-and-effect relationships. They often use existing groups or historical data (Polit & Beck, 2017).
• Experimental Research: In this approach, researchers manipulate one or more independent variables to observe the impact on a dependent variable. Randomization of participants into control and intervention groups is a hallmark of this method (Polit & Beck, 2017).

By Data Collection:

• Quantitative Research: This method relies on numerical data collected through surveys, questionnaires, or standardized measurements. Statistical analysis is used to draw conclusions (Polit & Beck, 2017).
• Qualitative Research: This approach focuses on understanding experiences, meanings, and perspectives. Data is collected through interviews, focus groups, or observations, and analyzed thematically (Polit & Beck, 2017).
• Mixed Methods Research: This combines quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the research question (Hays & Astin, 2018).

By Theoretical Framework:

• Positivist Research: This approach emphasizes objectivity, generalizability, and hypothesis testing. It assumes a single reality that can be measured and explained through scientific methods (Parahoo, 2014).
• Interpretivist Research: This perspective focuses on understanding the subjective experiences and interpretations of individuals within a specific context (Parahoo, 2014).
• Critical Research: This approach aims to critique existing power structures and social inequalities that impact health outcomes (Parahoo, 2014).

Additional Considerations:

• Longitudinal vs. Cross-Sectional Research: Longitudinal studies involve repeated data collection over time, while cross-sectional studies collect data at a single point in time (Polit & Beck, 2017).
• Induction vs. Deduction: Inductive research explores a phenomenon to develop theories, while deductive research tests existing theories through hypotheses (Polit & Beck, 2017).

These classifications are not mutually exclusive. Researchers may combine elements from different categories to design a research study best suited to address their specific research question.