Creswell, J. W. & Creswell, J. D. (2022). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications.

1 Introduction

Students, researchers, and practitioners in many fields have relied on Creswells’ Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches for a long time as their go-to textbook on research design. The sixth edition, published in 2022, builds on the strengths of its predecessors while also addressing some of the challenges and limitations of conducting research in a complex and constantly changing research world.

The chapters in Part I discuss preliminary considerations such as selecting a research methodology, reviewing the relevant literature, using theory, and considering ethical issues in research. Also emphasized is the significance of formulating a precise and focused research question. In addition, the chapters provide advice on how to design and conduct research studies employing qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches, as well as how to analyze and report findings.

Part II of the book covers all aspects of research designs, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, mixed methods, and non-experimental designs. Part II is intended to assist readers in designing high-quality research studies that align with their research questions and aims. Chapters (5–10) offer researchers practical advice and examples for designing and carrying out their studies and highlight important considerations and potential pitfalls. The chapters cover a variety of research designs, including experimental, quasi-experimental, non-experimental, and mixed methods designs. Each design’s advantages and disadvantages are analyzed, along with practical considerations such as sampling, data collection instruments, and ethical issues.

The text additionally places a premium on research’s philosophical foundations, urging scientists to examine how their worldview informs their methodology. This factor aids researchers in keeping an open mind and critical perspective throughout the study process. In addition, they stress the importance of solid, trustworthy techniques while designing studies. The authors advise on sample size calculations, data-gathering methods, and statistical analysis protocols. The text provides researchers with the means to assure the validity and credibility of their study by emphasizing the significance of these components.

Further, the authors make the book even more helpful for academics by peppering it with real-world examples, case studies, and detailed instructions. These resources provide concrete examples of research ideas and instructions on using them. The textbook offers a bridge between theory and practice, guiding researchers through the complexities of the research process and enabling them to apply theoretical concepts in the real world. The book empowers researchers with the tools and knowledge required to tackle each stage of the research process confidently and competently by providing comprehensive guidance and practical insights. It enables them to overcome obstacles, make well-informed decisions, and generate research findings that are rigorous but also significant and influential. The book’s seamless incorporation of theoretical foundations alongside practical considerations enables researchers to confront the complexities of real-world research and help promote the advancement of expertise in their respective disciplines. The emphasis on ethical issues in research design has also been increased in the 2022 sixth edition. The authors have added discussions of informed consent, privacy, and confidentiality and used vulnerable populations as critical examples to discuss ethical principles and practices in research.

Additionally, reflecting the growing significance of interdisciplinary research approaches, the sixth edition includes more examples and case studies from various research fields and disciplines. The authors also offer helpful guidance on organizing and writing research proposals and effectively communicating research findings. It is fair to say, however, that some readers who prefer more hands-on or interactive learning experiences may not find the examples and illustrations sufficient.

The execution and layout of the sixth edition textbook have proven indispensable to the research course instruction at my institution. Through extensive use of the book, students acquire a deeper understanding of research design concepts and the necessary guidance to conduct rigorous and ethical studies. The textbook’s thorough discussion of different research methods frees scholars to investigate more broadly and explore new avenues of inquiry. The textbook’s clarity and conciseness, strengthened by numerous examples and informative visuals, facilitate comprehension of even the most nuanced topics. The extensive coverage of research design methodologies ensures that researchers from a wide range of fields and disciplines will find the material to be of great value.

The book offers several characteristics that make it an outstanding research resource. First, it provides a detailed overview of several research procedures, such as quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. This breadth of coverage helps researchers understand each methodology’s benefits and drawbacks and reach well-informed judgments on the optimal method(s) for their study aims. Second, a vital feature of the book is its emphasis on linking the research approach to the study questions and aims. The authors also highlight the importance of idea clarity and ensure investigators understand how to create studies that fulfill their research aims. This focus on alignment improves the quality and importance of the research study.

Another factor contributing to the text’s persuasiveness is its wise counsel. Beyond offering many examples, in-depth case studies, and detailed step-by-step instructions, the book gives researchers the tools to do research accurately and confidently. By presenting these helpful tools, the text demystifies complex concepts and procedures, making it easier for researchers to apply research design principles to real-world scenarios. In addition, these helpful resources promote comprehension while also offering specific guidance to readers, enabling them to effectively apply their research inquiries utilizing the knowledge they have gained from the book.

While Creswell’s textbook is widely used in research methodology, some potential drawbacks exist. These include a limited focus on advanced statistical techniques, lack of updated content, limited coverage of emerging research methods, limited emphasis on cultural and contextual considerations, and potential complexity for novice researchers. These weaknesses should be considered in the context of the book’s strengths and overall value in guiding researchers through the research design process. Researchers may exploit the book’s qualities, adapt its concepts to their research pursuits, and contribute to the growth of knowledge in their particular disciplines by considering it as a guide rather than a final solution.